REFLECTIONS
Being Zayan’s father has been the most meaningful journey of my life. From the start, I realized his path would be unique, and with that came challenges, learning, and countless blessings.
Zayan is deeply attached to me, and that bond is one of the greatest joys I carry. Whether it’s the way he looks for me in a crowd, holds my hand tightly, or finds comfort just being by my side—those moments remind me of the trust and love we share.
Every milestone with him is special. What may seem small to others feels monumental to us, and his smile in those moments fills my heart with pride and gratitude. He has taught me patience, resilience, and how to appreciate life in its simplest, purest form.
This journey is not without its challenges, but his closeness and affection give me strength every day. Being Zayan’s father is not just a role—it is a blessing, a responsibility, and a gift I thank Allah for constantly.
—Jabbar Malik
Her journey with Zayan has been nothing short of extraordinary. What started as a mother’s love and determination became so much more—the creation of a safe, nurturing space where not only her child, but countless others, could grow, learn, and thrive. She refused to accept the limits the world tried to place on him, and instead built an entirely new path, one brick at a time, with courage and vision.
As George Bernard Shaw once said, “All progress depends on the unreasonable man.” She embodies that spirit—unwilling to simply adapt to what was, she reimagined what could be. And in doing so, she didn’t just change Zayan’s world, she changed the world for many families walking the same path.
Her story is a testament to love, resilience, and the power of one person’s unwavering belief. Forever in awe of the woman that she is. A true inspiration! Love her so much!!
—Sarah Nawaz
From the moment Shamaila became a mother, we have seen her heart guide everything she does. Her love for Zayan has always been endless, but what she has built goes far beyond her own child. She has created a place where children can grow, learn, and be celebrated for who they are. Every challenge she faced, she met with courage and determination, never giving up even when the path was hard.
Watching her grow into the strong, caring, and visionary woman she is today fills us with pride every day. She has touched so many lives, giving hope and support to families who need it most. Her journey is a reminder that love, patience, and dedication can create change far greater than one person alone. We are blessed to call her our daughter.
—Mom & Dad
LETTERS FROM
SHAMAILA
Dear Parents,
From one mother to another, I see you. I see your strength, your sleepless nights, your tireless advocacy, and your unwavering love.
Raising a child with special needs, especially a child on the autism spectrum like my own, is a journey that often feels invisible to the outside world. But within our community, we understand the beauty, the breakthroughs, the quiet victories, and the unspoken courage it takes to show up every single day.
To every parent feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or alone: I see you. I was you. And though our journeys may differ, our strength is shared. You are doing better than you think.
There are hard days — days filled with questions, fears, and frustrations. But there are also moments of pure joy: when your child makes eye contact, speaks a word, learns a skill, or simply smiles at you in their own unique way. Those moments remind us that progress isn’t always loud. Sometimes it whispers. And still, it is powerful.
Please never forget that your child is not broken. They are different, and different is not less. They bring light to the world in ways others cannot. And you, dear parent, are their greatest gift — their safe place, their loudest cheerleader, their constant.
Let’s keep believing. Let’s keep fighting. Let’s keep loving with all our hearts. You are not alone. We are many, and we are strong.
With love and solidarity,
Shamaila Nawaz
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