A Lifeline for Autism Support in Bahrain
Driven by a deep desire to support autistic children, Alia Vintage Bazaar raises crucial funds to provide life-changing therapies, especially for those from low-income families.
In an exclusive interview with Bahrain This Week, Dr Sawsan Karimi, a dedicated advocate for autism support, shared the inspiring journey behind the establishment of Alia Vintage Bazaar. The bazaar was born out of a heartfelt desire of a group of mothers of autistic children, including Dr Karimi and their friends, in 2007.
Dr Karimi, founding and board member of the Bahrain Society for Children with Behavioural and Communication Difficulties (BSCBCD), spoke about how this initiative has transformed lives, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.
“The inspiration to establish Alia Vintage Bazaar came from our collective desire to support our children and others like them,” Dr Karimi explained. “We wanted to ensure that every child, regardless of their family’s financial situation, could access the therapies they need.”
The therapies funded by Alia Vintage Bazaar are crucial for the development of autistic children. These therapies, often expensive and requiring long-term commitment, are essential for helping children overcome challenges related to communication, social interaction, and behavioural issues.
“For families from low-income backgrounds, affording these therapies can be an insurmountable challenge,” Dr Karimi noted. “Our goal is to bridge that gap and provide the necessary support.”
Dr Karimi, who has been involved in the bazaar since its inception and now runs it alongside Sahar Juma, highlighted the importance of having well-trained and qualified practitioners involved in these therapies.
“We ensure that our teachers undergo extensive training in various approaches to become qualified practitioners. This is vital for providing the best possible support to the children.”
The impact of Alia Vintage Bazaar’s efforts is evident in the success stories shared by Dr Karimi. One such story involves a young boy whose family struggled to afford the intensive intervention he needed. Thanks to the funds raised by the bazaar, he received comprehensive early intervention therapy, significantly improving his communication and social skills. “His progress was so remarkable that he transitioned into a fully inclusive classroom setting at our mainstream school,” Dr Karimi shared proudly.
Another success story is that of a girl from a low-income family who faced severe behavioural and communication difficulties. The funds raised enabled her to participate in specialized programs that addressed her unique needs. “Today, she not only excels academically but also enjoys meaningful social interactions, something her parents once thought would be impossible,” Dr Karimi recounted.
The new shop at Seef Mall, generously provided by Seef Properties, has played a significant role in supporting Alia Vintage Bazaar’s cause.
“Having a physical space to sell our items has expanded our reach and increased our ability to raise funds,” Dr Karimi explained. This expansion has allowed the bazaar to support even more children and families in need.
Through the tireless efforts of Dr Karimi and her team, Alia Vintage Bazaar continues to make a profound difference in the lives of autistic children and their families, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.