A charity golf event aimed at raising autism awareness and supporting families affected by the condition will tee off in Gaborone this Thursday, with organizers hoping sport can become a vehicle for inclusion and social change.
The Play with Purpose Autism Awareness Charity Golf Day will be held at Stanbic Bank Gaborone Golf Club, bringing together golfers, corporates and community stakeholders in support of a cause close to organizer Melissa Modise’s heart.
Inspired by her six-year-old son’s autism diagnosis at the age of three, Modise said the event was born out of personal experience and a desire to turn awareness into action.
“Autism is not one-size-fits-all. Every child is different, and inclusion begins with understanding,” she said. “Children on the spectrum need acceptance, opportunity and support.”
“What started as fear and uncertainty became a journey of learning and determination,” she said. “We have been fortunate to access therapies and support, but many families in Botswana do not have those opportunities.”
She said many parents raising children on the autism spectrum continue to face financial barriers, limited access to intervention services and a lack of broader social understanding.
“Parents carry a heavy burden, emotionally, financially and socially,” she said. “Too many are navigating this journey in silence.”
Using golf as a platform, the event seeks to challenge misconceptions around autism while raising funds to assist families who cannot afford therapy and developmental support.
Organizers say proceeds from the tournament will go to Autism Botswana to support advocacy work and programmes for individuals on the spectrum and their families.
Beyond fundraising, Modise said the initiative is also about building awareness and encouraging inclusion.
“Autism is not one-size-fits-all. Every child is different, and inclusion begins with understanding,” she said. “Children on the spectrum need acceptance, opportunity and support.”
She said the golf day is intended to create conversations around autism while encouraging businesses and the wider community to partner in building a more inclusive Botswana.
“This is bigger than a golf event,” Modise said. “It is about changing attitudes and making sure families feel seen and supported.”
The event has also issued a call for sponsorship and broader community support, with organizers hoping the tournament becomes an annual platform where sport meets social impact.
For Modise, the mission is simple: use the game to make a difference, one swing at a time.
