Doniya Better 

Sarah, a 10-year-old girl with Level 3 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from a recently arrived South Asian family, faced significant challenges at home. While she appeared calm and settled at school, raising no concerns among educators, Sarah showed signs of agitation in the home environment. Her family struggled to retain support workers and access appropriate services. A comprehensive assessment later revealed that the difficulties did not stem from Sarah herself, but from the absence of culturally responsive support tailored to the family’s needs. The situation required support and training not only for Sarah but for her entire family, to help them navigate her needs within their cultural context.

​

With the help of an expert in developing activity-based resources, we replicated the successful school routine and resources at home in a culturally inclusive manner. The approach was led by Sarah and her parents, with valuable input from support workers and therapists. Together, they created a structured, individualised routine that was sensitive to their cultural values, which strengthened Sarah and the family. The outcome was a dramatic improvement in Sarah’s behaviour, leading to a more positive quality of life for her, her sibling, and the family. The family gained confidence in interacting with Sarah, and the parents became equipped with the knowledge to better navigate the disability system. (name changed for confidentiality)

​

The phrase "Doniya Better" (دُنیا بہتر) translates to "Making the world better" or "A better world" in various South Asian languages, including Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi.

 

Thanks to funding support from the NDIA and a partnership with Serene Care World and Regional Victorians of Colours, we are now expanding this project to Sydney and Regional Victoria over the next two years.

​

The Doniya Better Project aims to make the world a better place for families from diverse backgrounds by equipping them with the tools and knowledge to navigate the disability system.

​

The Doniya Better Project focuses on:

1. Strengthening CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) parents with the knowledge and skills to navigate the disability system, identify and utilise resources, and advocate effectively in a culturally inclusive context.

2. Developing and implementing individualised routines and activities for autistic children, ensuring sustainability, positive developmental outcomes, and cultural relevance.

​

​