For Pamela Amor Calinog, what began as a deeply personal journey navigating the challenges of raising neurodivergent children has transformed into a powerful movement that’s changing the lives of Filipino families in the UAE.
A wife, a mother of three, and the founder of AUsome Family Journey (AFJ), Pamela knows firsthand the overwhelming emotions that come with hearing a doctor confirm your child’s developmental condition. Her advocacy was born from these moments of heartbreak, fear, and eventually—hope.
Pamela’s life shifted dramatically when her eldest son, Daniel, was diagnosed with Global Developmental Delay (GDD) at just two years old, followed by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at six. Determined to understand his needs, Pamela immersed herself in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and later became an ABA Therapist and Learning Support Assistant (LSA) in one of the UAE’s leading schools. She used this knowledge not only to support Daniel but to make a difference in the lives of other neurodivergent children as well.
But her motherhood journey didn’t end there. Her second child, Dave, brought new challenges when he exhibited extreme behavioral struggles that led to a diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). It was a period filled with self-doubt, emotional exhaustion, and isolation. Pamela openly admits there were times she questioned her worth as a mother.
“We often feel like we have to be superhuman for our children, but the truth is, we’re just doing our best in the hardest circumstances,” Pamela shares. “And that’s enough.”
Later, her youngest daughter, Dawn, showed signs of ADHD, but by then Pamela and her husband were armed with experience, patience, and a strong support system, ensuring early intervention and guidance.
Turning struggles into strength
In February 2023, Pamela took a leap of faith and founded AUsome Family Journey (AFJ)—a community created to support parents like her who are raising neurodivergent children. What started as a small Facebook group has grown into a thriving organization, providing education, emotional support, and a sense of belonging for Filipino families in the UAE.
Under Pamela’s leadership, AFJ has introduced programs that are as meaningful as they are practical:
- Therapy Talks to educate parents on neurodevelopmental conditions.
- Espresso Yourself sessions offering safe spaces for mothers to share their challenges without judgment.
- Colors of Determination, an arts program allowing children to express themselves creatively.
- Palarong AUsome, sports events designed to be inclusive of all abilities.
These programs don’t just address the children’s needs—they nurture the entire family, helping parents and caregivers feel seen, heard, and supported.
Beyond the home and into the community
Pamela’s advocacy doesn’t stop at AFJ. She is also the force behind Inclusive Connections Enterprises (ICE), a business initiative that provides AFJ parents with opportunities to earn extra income by organizing events, customizing products, and selling creations online—all without the stress of securing individual business licenses.
Additionally, Pamela serves as a Brand Ambassador for Hidden Disabilities Sunflower UAE, championing awareness for invisible disabilities and pushing for more inclusive and understanding public spaces. She proudly highlights that the Sunflower lanyards distributed through the program are made by People of Determination at Zayed Higher Organization in Abu Dhabi, embodying the very spirit of empowerment she advocates for.
A message of hope
Pamela doesn’t pretend her journey has been easy. The tears, breakdowns, and moments of despair are part of her story. But through those struggles, she discovered purpose.
“Our family’s pain became the foundation of something beautiful,” she says. “AFJ isn’t just a community. It’s a reminder that no parent has to feel alone. Together, we can create a world where neurodivergent children are embraced, understood, and given every chance to shine.”
As AFJ prepares for its upcoming second anniversary during Autism Awareness Month, Pamela continues to dedicate her heart and energy to building a future where acceptance isn’t the exception but the norm.
