World Autism Awareness Day 2025: Embracing Neurodiversity and Highlighting Prominent Individuals with Autism

World Autism Awareness Day is observed annually on April 2nd, as designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007. This day aims to spread awareness of autism and support the integration of people with it into society. In 2025, the theme of World Autism Awareness Day is “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” focusing on how inclusive practices and policies can support people with autism. ​

Affecting behaviour and communication, autism—also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD—is a developmental disorder. Autism is described by the National Health Service (NHS) as a disorder whereby “your brain works differently from other people.” People with autism could have increased sensitivity to sensory cues and find social events difficult. Several notable personalities have freely expressed their experiences with autism in recent years, therefore promoting more knowledge and acceptance. Here are some notable individuals:​

Anthony Hopkins

 

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Renowned actor, famed for parts in The Silence of the Lambs and The Father, was diagnosed with Asperger’s condition in his 70s. Hopkins said, “I’m very focused in one way,” and that his illness helps him to be highly attentive.

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Dan Aykroyd

 

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Renowned for Ghostbusters, Canadian actor and comic Dan Aykroyd has Asperger’s syndrome. His illness drives his obsession with ghosts and law enforcement, which helped create Ghostbusters.

Susan Boyle

 

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2013 saw Scottish musician Susan Boyle, who first became well-known on Britain’s Got Talent in 2009, diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome. When she got the diagnosis, she showed relief and grew more self-aware of her strengths.

Greta Thunberg

 

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Greta Thunberg, an environmental activist, says of her Asperger’s diagnosis, “superpower.” Originally diagnosed at age 11, she has been a prominent voice in the climate change movement, frequently stressing how her particular viewpoint inspires her dedication.

Sia

 

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Australian singer-songwriter Sia made public her diagnosis with autism in 2023. After years of feeling the need to “put my human suit on,” she said, knowing her neurodiversity helped her to embrace her genuine self.

Chris Packham

 

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At forty-four, Chris Packham, a British naturalist and television broadcaster, was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome. He has talked about how the diagnosis changed his view of his prior difficulties and encouraged him to see his strengths.

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Kanye West

Rapper and fashion designer Kanye West, renamed Ye, revealed in February 2025 that he had autism. He said that after challenging his earlier bipolar disease diagnosis, his wife Bianca Censori urged him to get a second opinion. West said his new medical team found his actions more in line with the autism spectrum condition.

World Autism Awareness Day reminds us of the need for knowledge, acceptance, and encouragement of people with autism. Acknowledging the efforts and experiences of people with autism helps society towards more inclusion and respect of neurodiversity.