Anna Kennedy Online – is a UK based charity that promotes the inclusion and equality of children and adults with an autism spectrum condition (ASC) throughout society.
The charity raises awareness of autism as well as supporting children, adults and families affected by autism.
At their recent event, Autism’s Got Talent, that showcased the talents of individuals with autism, the two new Young Patrons of the charity were unveiled as Dermot McNamara and Ryan Wiggins.
Dermot is 16-years-old and has Asperger’s syndrome. He helps to promote events as well as helping to handle the PR for the charity.
Ryan is 14-years-old and has Asperger’s syndrome. He loves music and drama and took part in 2014’s Autism’s Got Talent show.
I got in touch with Ryan and Dermot and asked them a few questions about their new role within the charity.
Dermot’s interview:
How are you involved within the autism community?
As well as working in PR and being an AKO Young Patron, I’m also a student at Walsall College where I’m studying media. Through the College’s Student Union, I work with them to raise awareness of autism as well as help promote their Autism Support Group – in association with Autism West Midlands.
How did you become involved with AKO?
I have a diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome and obviously heard of Anna and her work before. I felt her work was overshadowed by bigger organisations such as the National Autistic Society (NAS). They do great things of course, and led the movement for autism awareness, although there are so many smaller charities such as AKO, who deserve recognition for their achievements.
I initially got involved with AKO by helping handle their publicity and by promoting their events – the first being Wear it for Autism in October 2014. I had booked the model and I’m a Celebrity contestant, Amy Willerton, to attend and present the first category onto the stage. She presented the Young Carer’s category – her brother has low-functioning autism and she has dedicated her teenage years to help look after him, along with raising awareness.
Since Anna did the People’s Strictly for Comic Relief, it’s been an utter roller coaster for all of us.
We’ve received more support from the press, as well as celebrities who Anna had met during her time on Strictly such as: Robin Windsor, Jake Wood and Lisa Riley. Their support has been incredible. Not to mention our long standing supporters: Arlene Phillips, Mitch Winehouse & George Gilbey.
Can you tell me a little about the role of Young Patron?
Post Wear it for Autism, I was approached by Anna Kennedy and Austin Hughes to become a Young Patron. They said because of the work I had done so far, it was their way of saying thanks.
Naturally, I was and still am thrilled to be part of the AKO team. My main role is helping promote events so I help book celebrities, press and paparazzi attendance.
I also help promote the charity’s upcoming campaigns and if any other members of the AKO team are attending events to make speeches etc.
There are always incredibly exciting things in the pipeline for Anna and AKO, which we’re all incredibly excited about. We’re planning on doing more fundraising with our celebrity supporters. We’ve been fortunate enough to enlist the support, of some of TV-land’s most recognised faces – which means we’re able to expand the reach of the charity, as well as raise more awareness!
Can you tell me a little about your experience at Autism’s Got Talent?
Can you tell me a little about your experience at Autism’s Got Talent?
Unfortunately, my mother has osteoarthritis. Sometimes it’s manageable and she’s able to do things – but sometimes she becomes immobile and bed bound. It was one of those occasions where she became bed bound and we were unable to attend.
I did however attend the Autism’s Got Talent press call at Pineapple Dance Studios. We spoke to the press with some of our celebrity supporters such as: Mitch Winehouse and George Gilbey. Ryan and I were officially announced as the AKO Young Patrons at that event.
Will you be involved with Wear it for Autism this year?
I will indeed! Anything to do with AKO, I’ll always be doing stuff in the background and always try to be there! I deal with AKO’s publicity alongside Boxed Out PR – whom since I do some work with. I love PR and am hoping to develop a full time job from it (all in good time!).
I’ll be booking other celebrities and press to attend – as we like to broaden our net as far as possible! Maybe someone will nominate me and I’ll get to go on stage? Who knows?! Everyone can still nominate until June 20th!
You are involved with many different projects, can you tell me a little about Flow Aid?
FlowAid is a campaign, Boxed Out PR and I have set up – to help homeless women have access to sanitary towels. We’ve only just founded the campaign, and have already had some amazing companies come on board to support us. Companies such as The Big Issue have come on board as official partners.
Ryan’s interview:
At what age did you discover your talent for acting and singing?
Well I’ve been singing songs, here and there, for as long as I can remember. I joined Sylvia Young part time classes when I was nine, where I found my love of acting. I taught myself to play guitar when I was ten and officially took up guitar lessons at the age of twelve.
Where can we see you perform now?
I’m currently rehearsing to take on the lead role of “Oliver!” for the second time; tickets are on sale now at http://www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk/page/oliver-4
I’m also appearing as an extra in channel four’s “Man Down”, starting on June 1.
How did you become involved with AKO?
I first with Anna Kennedy Online, last May, where I performed at autisms got talent. I began going to several of their spectacular events and found myself getting more and more involved.
Can you tell me a little about your role as Young Patron?
I am so honoured to be a part of the charity but becoming a patron is a new level of amazing! It’s my job to think of new ways to raise awareness for autism and promote the charity itself.
What was it like to perform at Autism’s Got Talent?
Performing at AGT was wonderful. The atmosphere, the performers and the people involved just made everything so… Magical! Last year was amazing but this year was just spectacular!
It’s such a thrill and I would recommend everyone on the spectrum to audition!
What message would you give to other young people out there who have autism and who perhaps are struggling/facing challenges in their lives?
Living with autism can be very difficult. Most people with autism go through bullying at some point in their lives which can make life so hard. I’ve been there myself and know exactly what it’s like, to have people insulting you on how you look, act or how live your life.
Always remember that you are brilliant. Don’t let anyone tell you different. One day your brilliance might just change the world.
Below you can watch the highlights of Autism’s G0t Talent 2015
I would like to thank both Dermot and Ryan for taking the time to answer my questions and I wish them the best of luck in their new roles as Young Patron’s.