Sonia Chand has faced numerous challenges on her journey through the autism spectrum. Diagnosed at 20, much of her early life was spent feeling isolated and misunderstood. Her struggles began in childhood, where she encountered doubts about her ability to succeed academically. School officials recommended a transfer to a special school, but her parents successfully fought for her to stay, which came at a personal cost of isolation and medication side effects.
Sonia's experiences continued into college where, without adequate social tools, she became vulnerable to exploitative relationships. Reflecting on those times, she said, “By the time college started, I didn’t have the skills to really make friendships right away. In fact, I was an easy magnet for people to take advantage because they knew they could because of my naïveté.”
Through perseverance, Sonia obtained a correct diagnosis and underwent therapy to enhance her social skills. Today, she is a psychotherapist advocating for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Sonia's advocacy is prominently displayed through her involvement in the Autism Speaks Empower Summit, a two-day event in Downtown Chicago. Emphasizing the unique challenges faced by females on the spectrum due to gender bias, Sonia noted, “Being an active voice in the Autism Speaks Empower Summit and Challenge means everything to me. It allows me another opportunity to educate people about what it is like to be a FEMALE on the autism spectrum.”
Through her podcast and memoir, she shares the challenges and achievements of autistic individuals. There remains significant work to be accomplished, especially for autistic adults, in social interactions and community integration. “Even though there undoubtedly is being more done for autistic children, there is still a lot that needs to be done in terms of serving the adult population,” she asserted.
Sonia encourages everyone connected to autism to engage with the Autism Speaks Empower Summit, finding it in your area to express your experiences and contribute to understanding and advocacy.