Ayanna shares the misconceptions surrounding being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder later in life and the disparity in resources available for people of color. We discuss the difference in identifying black and Hispanic children with autism relative to white children and the services needed to reach their full potential.

Not letting autism stop her, Ayanna is a creative artist that has made dolls, clothing and paintings. Ayanna is a former choreographer with work seen on BET, ABC Family, the Maury Povich Show, and at The Apollo Theater and she’s illustrated 22 books and 4 coloring books. Ayanna was honored at the United Nations and given a proclamation making April 26th Ayanna’s Day in Westchester County, New York.

Ayanna walks us through sensory overload for people on the spectrum pertaining to sounds, smells and coping mechanisms. Specifically, Ayanna works with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy DBT that teaches mindfulness and journaling. Ayanna shares the experiences of seizures and fainting spells that many people with autism have that are not always discussed.

Social Media: @Phenomenallyautistic and linktree for merchandise

Resources: @AutisticsUnmasked non-profit organization

Books: Cupcake Girl and Her Birthday Adventure by Chanelle A. Watson, Illustrated by Ayana Davis; We Are Magical and We Are Still Magical- coloring books by Ayanna Davis