I want to share something deeply personal with you today. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to return to Ethiopia, my birth country 🇪🇹, and connect with the Melu’e Foundation, a group dedicated to supporting the autism community in Ethiopia. This experience wasn’t just another trip; it was the realization of a dream I’ve held close to my heart for many years.
During my visit, I had the honor of spending time at their facility, meeting with the amazing service providers, and conducting some in-person training for their staff. It was a joy to welcome them into our Reflex Integration Through Play (RITP) Certification Program, where they’ll receive training and mentoring in how to support the developmental needs of the children they serve. But more than any of the work we did, what moved me the most was the feeling of standing with people who share the same passion and commitment to improving the lives of children with autism and other special needs.
Growing up in Ethiopia, I never saw children with autism, Down syndrome, or Cerebral Palsy in my community. At the time, I didn’t think much of it, but as I grew older and pursued my studies at San Jose State University, USA, the truth became clear: these children were hidden. Families often had no resources, no support, and worse, faced deep societal shame. In our culture, disabilities were seen as a curse, and children with special needs were kept in the shadows.
That realization made an impact on me.
It lit a fire in me to do something, to create something that could reach those families—not only in Ethiopia but around the world—who struggle to find the help they need. That’s why I created the Reflex Integration Through Play (RITP) book series, the Memory Tile Game, and our treatment planning program. These are more than just tools; they are lifelines—easy-to-use resources that provide hope and empowerment to both families and specialists who often feel lost or unsupported.
Standing with the community I’ve always dreamed of helping was truly a moment that I will cherish forever. Seeing the dedication of the Melu’e Foundation staff reinforced my belief that this is only the beginning. My hope is that through RITP and our treatment planning framework, we can continue to bring more light, more support, and more compassion to those who need it most, no matter where they are in the world.
This journey is far from over. There is still much work to be done, but with every step we take together, we’re making a difference in the lives of children and families who have long been overlooked and underserved.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Together, we can bring hope and change to those who need it most.
If you’re interested in supporting us, partnering with us, or want to learn more, reach out at admin@polaristherapy.com.
