“With our ‘I’m Happy to Produce’ initiative, we empower young people with autism by providing meaningful work and fostering vibrant community involvement,” says Fatma Tabanlı from NGO OBİDEV, Turkey, and a former participant in one of ICLD’s programmes.
Team Balikesir’s “I’m Happy to Produce” initiative shines as a beacon of hope and transformation for young individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Turkey. Born from their engagement in the ICLD’s programme “Local Governance with a Rights-Based Approach,” this innovative project is revolutionizing lives through comprehensive vocational training and vibrant community involvement. By fostering independence and practical skills, Team Balikesir is not only setting a new standard for social integration but also contributing profoundly to sustainable development. This remarkable initiative is a testament to their commitment to human rights and enhancing the quality of life, embodying the spirit of empowerment and progress.
Since its launch in December 2020, the ‘I’m Happy to Produce’ initiative has been addressing the critical gap in continuous education and social integration for individuals with ASD beyond the age of 23 – significant issue in Turkey, where formal education for these individuals ends at this age. Spearheaded by Cihan Çağıl, project coordinator at Balikesir Metropolitan Municipality, and Fatma Tabanlı, Head of the NGO OBİDEV – Foundation for Supporting Individuals with Autism, the project established a social, cultural, and commercial centre in the renovated old primary school building in Üçpınar District.
“I’m Happy to Produce’ is a beacon of hope, empowering young people with autism through meaningful work and vibrant community involvement. By nurturing their skills and independence, we champion their human rights and transform lives”, says Cihan Çağıl.
The OBİDEV Vocational Training and Production Center provides continuous, scientifically based education and vocational training for individuals with autism, expanding from 33 to 135 children served. Through initiatives like Obi Shop and Obi Happiness Café, OBİDEV offers therapy, practical skills, and community engagement, supporting independence and reducing stigma. These initiatives, coupled with the “I’m Happy to Produce” project, exemplify the impact of community involvement and advocacy in promoting human rights and the SDGs.
This vocational training center serves as a hub of productive activity, offering a variety of workshops and courses designed to equip participants with practical skills and a sense of accomplishment. These include courses in traditional music, printing arts, ceramics, textiles, sports, culinary arts, and regular health monitoring. Each workshop imparts vocational skills and promotes self-reliance and community participation, thereby directly contributing to SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
The daily schedule at the centre is designed to foster responsibility and independence. Trainees engage in their respective workshop activities, prepare and consume their meals, and conclude the day by cleaning up their work areas. These routines foster self-reliance and a robust sense of community, enhancing the quality of life for the trainees and promoting their right to work and education.
Since its inception, the “I’m Happy to Produce” project has made significant strides in promoting inclusion and participation. The project aims to involve at least 60 individuals with special needs, equipping them with the skills necessary for independent living, employment opportunities, and an improved quality of life. This aligns with the human right to work and education. The initiative has attracted considerable support from local businesses, philanthropists, and governmental agencies, including equipment donations, financial aid, and volunteer involvement, which have ensured the project’s sustainability and aligned with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
Participation in ICLD’s programme was pivotal
Team Balikesir’s participation in the ICLD’s programme “Local Governance with a Rights-Based Approach” was pivotal in shaping this transformative project. The training programme equipped the team with essential tools for strategic planning and change management, focusing on equitable service delivery, anti-discrimination, citizen participation, inclusive decision-making, transparency, and accountability. These principles are deeply rooted in the human rights framework and are essential for achieving the SDGs.
The “I’m Happy to Produce” initiative stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, strategic planning, and community support. By providing a nurturing environment where individuals with ASD can thrive, Team Balikesir has set a new standard for social integration and empowerment, demonstrating how local governance can effectively promote and fulfil human rights.