Sunup Talented Children Development Center in Abu Dhabi continues its mission of building a more inclusive and compassionate community by allowing its employees and parents of enrolled children to take part in a powerful, first-hand experience that simulates the daily realities of individuals on the autism spectrum.
This initiative—crafted to reflect the real sensory challenges faced by people of determination—immerses participants in scenarios involving loud noises, visual distortions, and physical discomfort. The goal: to help them understand how overwhelming the world can be for someone with autism, and to deepen empathy that books and lectures alone cannot instill.
“By simulating how a person with autism might experience sensory overload, the experience gives participants a rare, emotional glimpse into what many autistic individuals go through daily,” shared Chancellor Engr. Li Schonberg, a pioneer in robotics for autism and co-founder of QIWI Robotics and Technologies Group.
The simulation has proven to be a transformative moment for Sunup’s educators, therapists, and support staff—encouraging them to adopt more inclusive strategies and thoughtful communication in their roles. For parents, it provides emotional validation and strengthens their connection with their children by offering a clearer window into their inner world.
“Many people know about autism but don’t feel its challenges,” added Chancellor Engr. Schonberg. “This program transforms awareness into empathy, which then leads to more compassionate behavior and policy changes.”
Aligned with the UAE’s People of Determination initiative, the experience also supports the nation’s broader goal of turning inclusion into everyday practice, not just policy. It encourages communities to normalize neurodiversity, reduce stigma, and become more adaptable and accepting.
Notably, the innovation hubs supporting these immersive experiences are powered by individuals from the People of Determination community themselves. Their insights and lived experiences play a vital role in shaping realistic simulations, proving that inclusion is not just about support—but also about leadership, contribution, and innovation.
Sunup Talented Children Development Center is a premier institution in Abu Dhabi dedicated to empowering children of determination through a holistic and individualized approach. Its programs include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), the Kinesthetic Individualized Education Program (KIEP), Tomatis auditory therapy, as well as arts and sports-based therapies. The center also integrates AI-powered robotics in its sessions and offers a spacious, sensory-considerate environment tailored to children with autism and related needs.
Led by Chancellor Chancellor Engr. and staffed by highly qualified professionals, Sunup was recently honored with the Excellence in Special Education for Children with Determination Award at The Global Filipino Icon Awards 2025 in Dubai. The center also provides flexible learning options through its QAT Blended Learning platform, giving families access to personalized education from home.
