Our Founder's Journey
~ Rahma Mohamed's Story ~
When my son Jibril was diagnosed with autism at just 3 years and 7 months old, my world changed. There was very limited support available, and autism was virtually unknown in my community. I was overwhelmed, struggling to navigate a system that didn't speak my language or understand my culture.
For six long years, I searched for answers and support—not just for Jibril, but for my entire family. The isolation was profound. Nobody understood. There was no guidance, no one who looked like us who had walked this path before.
A turning point came when I decided to pursue training in Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) education. I took a job at a special school, determined to understand how to better support my son. This wasn't just about Jibril anymore—it became my mission to ensure no other family in my community would suffer the isolation we experienced.
As my understanding grew, so did my strength. I began speaking openly about autism in my community. I shared what I had learned. I listened to other parents' stories. And gradually, I realized we were not alone—there were so many families struggling in silence, carrying shame that shouldn't exist.
That realization led to the birth of Pathway to Jannah. What started as a WhatsApp group has grown into a real community—a safe space where African and Asian families can come together, share their journeys, learn about neurodiversity, and discover that autism is not a curse. It is a medical condition. And with the right support, community, and understanding, our children can thrive.
Today, one of our members—a woman from the Somali community—said something that made all of this worthwhile: "I am now an ambassador for change to educate women in my community." That is the power of Pathway to Jannah. We don't just support families. We create ambassadors of change.
