Autism Awareness Day: Celebrating Brandon

April marks Autism Awareness Month, with April 2 recognised as Autism Awareness Day. It’s a time to listen, learn, and understand about autism, especially from those with lived experience.

This year, we’re proud to celebrate Brandon, a second-year candidate who is currently on our Supported Internship Programme.

Acceptance is important as people with autism don’t want to feel alone, they don’t want to feel left out and don’t want to feel like the odd one out.

Brandon, Team Domenica candidate

A brilliant start

Brandon is currently thriving in his supported internship at Deco Café at Saltdean Lido and has made a great impression since starting. His manager said

Brandon’s first week has been a total triumph – he’s a breath of fresh air to work with. He works hard and listens clearly to instructions. He is very interested and curious and has a lovely manner. Thank you for all your hard work Brandon.”

Manager at Deco Cafe

At Team Domenica, we work closely with employer partners to create inclusive workplaces that champion diversity, acceptance, and opportunity. Brandon’s success highlights how supported internships benefit both candidates and employers, bringing dedication, enthusiasm, and fresh perspectives into the workplace. Click here to find out more about our employer partnerships.

Autism from Brandon’s perspective

Brandon’s Job Coach spoke with him about autism awareness and what he would like others to understand. We’re proud to share Brandon’s thoughts, in his own words, offering a genuine insight into his experiences.

How would you describe autism in your own words?

Autism is something that you have to accept that you are born with, my brain isn’t wired in the same way as other people, I don’t always get things as quickly or as fast as everyone else.

What does having autism mean to you?

Autism means I’m not always comfortable around places with loud noises or noises I don’t like, I’m also not always comfortable with new people. People I know well have more understanding and know when I’ve had too much. Having autism also means that it is something I have to explain to people to make them aware of my specialist needs.

Work, challenges and strengths

Is there anything you wish more people understood about autism?

Autistic people may want to ask questions about what they want to know, sometimes our curious brains can get the better of us and we don’t always know when it is rude to interrupt someone, sometimes the question can slip away if we don’t ask it when we think of it.

I want people to know that some people with autism like me are good at talking loud and clear but other autistic people are not so good at talking loud and clear – but it is always important to listen. 

What parts of working do you enjoy the most and what parts do you find the most challenging?

I enjoy moving my body and being on my feet. I like serving food and drinks to tables, clearing and cleaning the tables and taking plates to the kitchen. I find stacking the jam jars challenging and trying to remember what customers have asked about the menu.

What makes you feel happiest or most yourself?

I like to go to different places to help me clear my mind as it can get a bit boring being in the same place all the time. I like going to Worthing, Lancing and Leeds. Doing art is also a favourite activity, drawing scenery is my thing.

Advice for others

What advice would you give to people who want to be more understanding or supportive?

If you ever see an autistic person who is down maybe keep quiet and let them speak, ask them what is wrong? If you see autistic people fidgeting it might mean they are nervous about something. It’s important to know that some things in the world can scare autistic people and sometimes they just want to do the activities they want to do.

Is there something that Team Domenica does that you wish more organisations would do?

I didn’t do proper work experience at my other college; I get proper work experience at Team Domenica. It’s also really good to have someone supporting me in the workplace, it is good knowing you have someone you trust to be with you.

Is there anything you’ve learned about yourself since being at Team Domenica?

I’ve learnt to gain new confidence in work, and I have learnt to socialise more with people.

What could employers do to make more workplaces inclusive for people with autism?

Give them a chance, be flexible and allow them to do different tasks.

Autism Awareness Day 2026

Brandon’s story reminds us that everyone brings unique strengths, perspectives, and talents. By listening, being patient and staying open-minded, we can continue to create workplaces and communities where everyone feels valued and supported.