An autistic youth, Tobechi Achionye, is spearheading the Law Models Academy campaign in Abuja, championing fashion, music, and literacy to inspire creativity and inclusion. Mr. Larry Walker, Chief Executive Officer of Law Models Academy, said this in Abuja during the campaign.
Walker said that Tobechi popularly known as Toby was defying the odds against autistic persons which was commendable.
According to him, Toby represents exactly what the academy stands for which is creativity, inclusion, relevance, and impact. “Toby’s inclusion strengthens our mission, proving that neurodiversity youth can inspire change and lead national conversations.
“His journey is proof that inclusion is not charity, but it is strength. “Through his music, modelling, and courage, he is showing Nigeria and the world that every child and every person is somebody,” he said.
Toby is the voice behind the song “I Be Somebody”, an anthem and movement that affirms the dignity and potential of every person.
Walker said that Toby’s inclusion in the campaign was beyond the inclusion of a person in the disability spectrum but a celebration of talent, courage, and the limitless power of every person.
He disclosed that the academy was targeting the mobilisation of young boys and girls in Abuja to empower 2,000 young Nigerians in fashion and modelling, to advocate for the girl-child and promote inclusion for youths regardless of disability status.
Noni Okocha, Chief Executive Officer, “I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative” lauded Toby’s involvement and participation in the campaign. Okocha said that Toby was showing Nigerians and the world that every child and every person, regardless of disability status, “is relevant and can make impact”.
The Law Models Academy campaign is supported by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Federal Ministry of Education, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, amongst others.
The campaign focuses on fashion, music and advocacy for everyone in partnership with the I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative.