by Chi Ibe

Nollywood actress Monalisa Chinda and prominent producer, Emem Isong have both been specially honoured for their “outstanding contribution to raising awareness, understanding and hope to those affected by autism spectrum disorder and advocating for them.”

The two major Nollywood players, who recently took part in the production of the first film on Autism ever produced in Nigeria, were awarded by WOW Divas, an international network of professional women, at their second Autism Awareness Conference held on Friday, June 22, 2012 at Four Point by Sheraton in Lekki Lagos.

Speaking on the award, Chinda and Isong expressed their feeling to be honoured and said they were encouraged to do more.

Speakers and special guests at the event included Abiodun Aluko, Bosede Askhia, Yinka Akindayomi, Adeola Holloway Oduyemi, Dotun Akande, Udo Maryanne Okonjo and Honourable Jerry Alagbaosa, member of the Imo State House of Rep amongst others.

The conference which also saw the launch of The Nigerian Autism Directory emphasized that autism was not a death sentence! “With early diagnosis, intervention and therapy, the child can recover without a trace.”