A woman from Co Tyrone says she was inspired to set up her own training and wellbeing business after being inspired by her two siblings who have autism. Pamela Capriglione, from Strabane was a teacher for years before undertaking further qualifications in relation to autism after her older brother was diagnosed as an adult. Around 30 years ago, her younger sibling was also diagnosed with the condition.
Seeing the differences in the condition presenting in adulthood and childhood, Pamela upskilled before opening her training and wellbeing business, Neuro Skillshop. It aims to be a platform for parents, teachers, and professionals to develop a deeper knowledge of different play and learning styles, as well as emotional aids, and how to incorporate these into daily life. Speaking to Belfast Live ahead of Autism Acceptance Week, an annual week to help more people understand what autism is, Pamela said she's dedicated to providing support services to help children and young people be themselves. Her business developed from her first-hand experience of seeing the detrimental impact outdated training was having on the mental health of neurodivergent children and young people. The 41-year-old said: "My relationship with autism comes from having two siblings who are autistic.