A new era for autism education: Autism Connect Centre launched in Westridge
The team at Autism Connect
Image: Tracy-Lynn Ruiters
A ground-breaking sod-turning ceremony took place in Westridge this past week, marking the beginning of a new era for autism education and support in the heart of Mitchells Plain.
The future Autism Connect Centre will be the first of its kind in the area, a space designed not only for early childhood learning but for long-term inclusion, therapy, and skills development for young adults on the autism spectrum.
What began as a deeply personal mission by Autism Connect founder Nicolette Ripepi has blossomed into a collective dream. “When I founded Autism Connect, it was with a clear vision: to bridge the gap where marginalized communities had almost no access to early learner support and autism-specific education,” Ripepi told attendees.
But as the work deepened, so too did the need. “It quickly became apparent that we needed to close an even larger gap. To truly reintegrate into society, we had to expand our services beyond early education,” she said.
The new centre is the result of six years of perseverance working with the City, raising funds, facing countless delays. “Today, I can say with pride, I can say with confidence it was worth every sacrifice,” Ripepi said.
Board Chairperson Danielle Michaels echoed that sentiment. “Today, I stand before you not only as the Chairperson of the board, but also as a mother, wife, daughter, and a proud member of the Mitchells Plain community.”
She acknowledged the challenges but chose to highlight the strength behind the journey. “This is not a story of hardship, but a testament to hope, perseverance, unwavering commitment, and genuine passion.”
Michaels honoured Ripepi’s courage and vision: “Our journey began with a courageous mother, Nicolette and her son, Tyler Ripepi. Today, this story belongs to all of us: to the parents who refused to settle, to the young autistic adults striving to belong, and to the children seeking acceptance in all their wonder and awe.”
The ceremony was welcomed
Image: Supplied
The new Autism Connect Centre, to be built at the corner of Wespoort and Loganberry Streets, will cater to over 100 learners and offer therapy spaces, inclusive classrooms, secure play areas, and training rooms for both staff and the broader sector. A dedicated skills development wing will prepare young autistic adults for real-world employment opportunities.
“This milestone is not an endpoint, but the beginning of a new era,” said Michaels. “We invite all who are able to support this venture to join us because this dream truly belongs to every one of us.”
Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews, Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, who also joined the ceremony said: “There’s something deeply moving about standing on familiar ground and imagining what will come from it. As someone who grew up in Mitchell’s Plain, I don’t speak from the outside looking in. I know the daily realities our families face.
“Too many families walk this road alone because vital support is located far from where they live. That is why I made it my priority to ensure this land was made available to Autism Connect at a subsidised tariff. Building this centre here says one thing clearly: support should not be a privilege based on geography. It should be a right.
“This centre will bring early, consistent, local support to the heart of Mitchell’s Plain helping children thrive, supporting families, and shifting our city toward understanding and inclusion. I hope this is the first of many.”
Ward Councillor Ashley Potts smiled from ear to ear, calling the ceremony "the start of new beginnings".
“Today marks the start of a historic journey for the Centre who will expand their tent pegs to better serve those faced with Autism Spectrum Disorders.”
Ward Councillor Elton Jansen said he wholeheartedly endorsed the work Autism Connect is doing especially in the education sector.
“For inclusive education, you need all the support from all spheres. The work I witnessed over the past years is phenomenal. I am excited to see what will happen here.”