‘I want to help break the stigma’ – Jeremy Mifsud on experience with autism

Head of Customer Experience Jeremy Mifsud speaks openly about being autistic and insists that he wants to challenge the stereotype and “break the stigma” especially when it comes to the general perception of “what an autistic person can look like or do.”

“I have just returned from my first meeting at the Malta Autism Centre and I cannot express how validated I feel,” Jeremy expressed while explaining that he “went in with the aim to get information on how to get diagnosed” and left feeling like he didn’t even need one.

Sometimes, when opening up about lived experiences, an individual can be perceived through “the label” rather than being seen “as a person”, even if one is sharing their vulnerabilities with the intention to raise awareness, as is the case with Jeremy.

“I was seen as a person with individual challenges and a loveable personality, rather than trying to see me through a label. I truly admire this approach,” he affirmed.

Speaking of his situation, Jeremy stated that he has known about this for some time. “I have often talked about neuro-diversity; although, without an official diagnosis, I didn’t want to take too much space from other neuro-diverse voices,” he admits.

However, things will change now. “Hopefully, not only will I continue to learn further about myself and what are my different needs,” Jeremy stated, “but also help break the stigma and stereotypes of what an autistic person can look like or do.”