There are some words that get thrown around so often that we stop thinking about what they actually mean.
“Autistic” is one of them.
You hear it in conversations, online comments and casual jokes. Usually said without malice, but often without understanding. When you’re part of the functional majority, it can be easy to forget that behind the word are real people, real families and real journeys that don’t end when the conversation moves on.
Because autism is not a punchline.
And it is not a phase.
For many individuals and families, autism is a lifelong reality that shapes education, employment, social experiences and daily life. According to Singapore’s Ministry of Social and Family Development, about one in every 150 children is estimated to be on the autism spectrum.
As awareness and diagnosis rates continue to improve, more families are seeking support, specialised education and long-term care services than ever before.
That is why organisations such as St. Andrew’s Autism Centre (SAAC) play such an important role. Their work extends far beyond childhood intervention. They provide specialised education, adult services and support systems that help individuals with autism lead meaningful and dignified lives throughout adulthood.
At Mismatch, we have always believed that community is about more than sharing a drink or a meal. It is about showing up for one another when it matters.
That belief is what inspired our Special Charity Brunch: The Climb for Autism.
Together with our friends from overdosa.sg and Taco Mantra, we came together to turn good food into something bigger. Every plate served, every seat filled and every order placed contributed towards supporting SAAC and helping raise awareness for autism in Singapore.
The event was also held in support of Yeti Kumar and his remarkable mission to climb Ama Dablam, one of the world’s most iconic and challenging Himalayan peaks. His climb is more than a personal achievement. It is a platform to shine a spotlight on autism, encourage conversations that matter and raise funds for a cause close to his heart.
Awareness campaigns often focus on a single day or month on the calendar. While those moments are important, the reality is that autism exists every day of the year. Families continue navigating challenges long after the social media posts disappear and the awareness ribbons are packed away.
Real change happens when communities continue showing up.
“I am undertaking this Ama Dablam expedition from 4 May to 16 May 2026 to shine light on the ongoing needs of individuals with autism. Constant support is vital, and I believe we all have a role to play in building that foundation.”
– KUMARESAN S/O TANABALAN
That can mean volunteering. It can mean donating. It can mean learning more about autism and creating more inclusive spaces. Sometimes, it can simply mean gathering around a table with friends and choosing to support something worthwhile.
The Climb for Autism reminded us that meaningful impact does not always start with grand gestures. Sometimes it starts with a conversation, a shared meal and a community willing to rally behind a cause.
To everyone who joined us, supported the event, donated or helped spread the word, thank you.
Together, we proved that a brunch can be more than brunch.
It can be a step towards a more understanding, inclusive and compassionate Singapore.
