Lemonade BVI proudly hosted its 2nd Annual Autism and Down Syndrome Symposium under the theme “Seen. Safe. Supported!”, bringing together families, educators, healthcare professionals, advocates, and community members in a meaningful effort to promote inclusion, understanding, and support for neurodivergent individuals throughout the Virgin Islands.
Held on April 25, 2026, at the Save the Seed Energy Centre, the symposium welcomed more than 100 attendees from Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada. The event featured a diverse lineup of speakers, professionals, parents, and advocates who shared valuable insights, lived experiences, and practical strategies for supporting individuals with autism and Down syndrome.
Lemonade BVI extends heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, volunteers, speakers, sponsors, partners, and the host venue whose support made this impactful event possible.
The symposium began with an opening prayer by Huelette McNickle, setting a spirit of unity, humility, and openness for the day’s discussions. Crystal Estridge and Janaue Estridge followed with an engaging presentation titled “Getting Down with Music Therapy,” highlighting the therapeutic benefits of music, particularly for neurodivergent individuals.
One of the most moving moments of the symposium came during “A Day in Our Shoes,” where Akaelen Brewley and his mother, Dr. Sharlon Lewis-Forbes, shared candid reflections on the realities, challenges, and triumphs of navigating autism in everyday life.
The symposium also featured a dynamic panel discussion titled “Seeing and Supporting Real Lives + Ask the Doctor,” with Dr. Michael Turnbull, Latoya Brown, and Kate Malin. The panelists offered professional perspectives on supporting neurodivergent children, while Dr. Turnbull addressed important questions from the audience regarding daily challenges faced by families and caregivers.
Hon. Lorna Smith shared deeply personal reflections on her family’s journey with autism over the past two decades. She encouraged attendees to recognize the effects of loneliness and isolation among neurodivergent youth and challenged the community to create stronger systems of emotional and social support.
Interactive breakout sessions gave participants practical tools and guidance. Sessions on “Supporting Learning” and “Managing Meltdowns” were facilitated by Ms. Marsha Pemberton, Ms. Huelette McNickle, and Mrs. Otrisha John-Prescott. Meanwhile, Dr. Michelle Martin, Dr. Cynthia Grenyion, and Kate Malin led an important discussion on “Safety and Sexual Development,” focusing on healthy communication and strategies to help protect children from sexual abuse.
Entrepreneur Jamoi Anselm inspired attendees with his presentation, “A Day in My Shoes,” where he spoke about resilience, determination, and living beyond a diagnosis.
The symposium concluded with a panel discussion on “BVI Initiatives in Health, Education and Community,” featuring Dr. Natasha Frett and Crystal Estridge, who provided valuable information about accessing professional support services locally.
A particularly heartfelt moment came from Amiyah R. Chang, a young Autism Awareness Champion from Anegada, who shared how meaningful the symposium was to her both as a student and as the sibling of a neurodivergent child. Her remarks reinforced the importance of creating spaces where neurodivergent individuals and their families feel acknowledged, valued, and supported.
The full symposium is available for viewing on Lemonade BVI’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/hlDpnI3WAKE
Lemonade BVI once again thanks all volunteers whose dedication and generosity contributed to the success of the event. From assisting with childcare to coordinating logistics, their support helped foster a welcoming and supportive environment for all participants.
The organization also extends sincere appreciation to all sponsors, partners, attendees, and supporters for their continued commitment to advancing awareness, inclusion, and advocacy for the neurodivergent community in the Virgin Islands.