Chinwe Gloria Oyouwa is an entrepreneur, autism awareness advocate, and founder of ‘Crown and Calm’ a sensory-friendly brand that is focused on providing products that support unique sensory needs.

She grew up with an autistic uncle and wants to create an environment in which Nigerians and Africans with invisible disabilities can thrive and succeed, by creating something meaningful that addresses their unique needs.

In this interview with Taiwo Okanlawon, Gloria talks about life growing up with an autistic person, her entrepreneurial journey, and setting up ‘Crown and Calm’, as well as how society can make life easier for neurodivergent people.

Excerpts;

Tell us about your upbringing and your educational background.

I grew up in a family that taught me to value empathy, patience, and resourcefulness. One of my strongest influences was my uncle, who had unique sensory needs. Being close to him gave me firsthand insight into the daily challenges people with sensory sensitivities can face. This understanding stayed with me, even as I pursued my degree in Marketing at Ladoke Akintola University. My marketing background has been invaluable in helping me develop and communicate the vision for ‘Crown and Calm’, and it’s been my personal connection and experiences that have given it purpose.

This is a unique business, what inspired you to take up this career despite not having any educational background in this?

My inspiration comes from my family, especially my uncle. I learnt how deeply sensory needs can impact one’s daily life. Growing up close to him, I became aware of the challenges and sensitivities that can come with certain environments and everyday situations. I studied marketing at Ladoke Akintola University, and while my background isn’t specifically in sensory needs, my personal experiences led me to immerse myself in learning about it independently. I wanted to create something meaningful that addresses these unique needs, and that’s how Crown and Calm was born. This is more than a business for me; it’s a chance to make a real difference by creating products that bring comfort and calm to those who need it most.

How and when did you discover you have a passion for this?

My passion for sensory-friendly solutions began with my uncle. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how his struggles were often exacerbated by a lack of proper support and understanding, particularly during his formative years. This experience highlighted the critical importance of addressing sensory needs early, especially for children. Research shows that early intervention can significantly improve sensory processing skills, helping children feel more comfortable and confident in their environments. This realization inspired me to focus on children with Crown and Calm. By providing sensory-friendly products and support, I hope to give kids the tools they need to thrive and make a lasting difference in their lives.

There must be some challenges you have encountered in setting this up, can you share some?

Like any new venture, launching Crown and Calm has come with its share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been sourcing the right materials for our sensory-friendly products. Ensuring they are both comfortable and durable while being accessible has required extensive research and collaboration with suppliers. Additionally, raising awareness about sensory needs and the importance of creating supportive environments can be a challenge in itself. Many people still don’t fully understand the impact that sensory sensitivities can have on children’s daily lives. Educating our community about this issue and the benefits of our products is essential, but it requires consistent effort and clear communication. Lastly, as a new brand, building a network of partnerships and collaborations has also posed challenges. Connecting with schools, healthcare professionals, and organizations that share our vision has taken time and persistence. However, overcoming these challenges has made me more determined to succeed and has reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact with Crown and Calm.

What has been your most memorable experience as an entrepreneur so far?

My most memorable experience as an entrepreneur so far has been the moment I finalized the concept for Crown and Calm. Bringing my vision to life—developing a brand focused on sensory-friendly solutions for children—felt incredibly fulfilling. The process of researching, planning, and connecting with like-minded individuals has been both challenging and rewarding. I remember the excitement of sharing my vision with friends and family, and their support motivated me to move forward. That sense of purpose has made this journey truly special and memorable for me.

What are the lessons you have learnt with your relationship with autistic children?

My relationship with autistic children has taught me invaluable lessons about patience and understanding, as each child experiences the world differently. I’ve learned the importance of effective communication, recognizing that not all children communicate in the same way, and the need to create safe, sensory-friendly environments to help them feel supported. Most importantly, I’ve come to appreciate that every child has unique strengths, and it’s essential to celebrate those differences while providing the necessary support for their success.

What do you do to tackle the pressure that comes with your work?

To tackle the pressure that comes with my work, I prioritize self-care by spending time with my family and engaging in hobbies. Staying organized with manageable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed and celebrate small achievements. Connecting with fellow entrepreneurs for support and sharing experiences also helps me maintain perspective. Staying organized and keeping a positive mindset are essential strategies I use to manage pressure effectively.

What are the lessons you have learnt from your relationship with autistic children?

To tackle the pressure that comes with my work, I prioritize self-care by spending time with my family and engaging in hobbies. I break tasks into manageable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed and celebrate small achievements. Connecting with fellow entrepreneurs for support and sharing experiences also helps me maintain perspective. Staying organized and keeping a positive mindset are essential strategies I use to manage pressure effectively.

What’s that question you wish people would stop asking parents about their autistic children?

I wish people would stop asking parents, ‘What’s wrong with your child?’ I know how hurtful that can be because it implies there’s something wrong with the child instead of celebrating their unique strengths. It would mean so much more if people asked, ‘How can I support your child?’ or ‘What are their interests?’ Those questions open the door to understanding and connection, which is what we truly need.”

What has been your greatest source of strength and support through it all and how?

My greatest source of strength has been my family and close friends. Their belief in my vision for ‘Crown and Calm’ keeps me motivated during challenging times.

What advice would you give families raising an autistic child?

My advice for families raising an autistic child is to embrace their unique strengths and celebrate small victories. Keep detailed observations and notes about your child’s behaviors to tailor support strategies effectively. Creating a sensory-friendly environment and rewarding progress, no matter how small, is crucial. Don’t hesitate to seek resources like support groups and educational materials, and always advocate for your child to ensure they receive the support they deserve.

In the Nigerian culture, it is quite common for parents who have autistic children to live in denial, perhaps because of the fear of being stigmatized. What kind of counseling can help?

In Nigerian culture, many parents may deny autism due to stigma. Counseling focused on acceptance and education can help. Parent support groups provide a space for sharing experiences and learning from others. Awareness programs help parents understand autism and dispel myths. Additionally, Family therapy improves communication, allowing families to express their feelings and concerns. Overall, fostering an open and supportive environment is key to encouraging parents to seek the right resources for their children.

What sort of assistance or interventions, if any, can be offered to help someone who is autistic?

Before recommending interventions for autistic children, a thorough assessment is essential to identify their specific needs. Possible interventions include Behavioral Therapy: Such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for social skills and behavior management. Speech and Language Therapy: To improve communication skills both verbal and non-verbal. Occupational Therapy: For daily living skills and sensory integration. Social Skills Training: To enhance interaction and relationship-building. Support Groups: Offering emotional support and practical advice. Educational Support: Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Parent Training: Equipping families with effective strategies.

Do you think the government has been supportive and in what ways can it do more?

The Nigerian government has taken some steps to support autistic individuals, like initiating policies for inclusive education and Disability rights. However, there’s room for improvement. It would help if they increased funding for autism awareness campaigns and offered more training for teachers and healthcare workers. Making sure families have access to resources and therapies is crucial, too. Establishing strong support networks and enhancing healthcare services specifically for autistic individuals can really make a difference in their lives.

What accomplishments do you see yourself achieving in the next five to 5 years?

In the next five years, I envision ‘Crown and Calm’ to be a leading resource in Nigeria and beyond for supporting autistic individuals and their families. I aim to establish partnerships with schools and healthcare providers to raise awareness about sensory-friendly products and services. I also want to launch innovative programs and workshops that truly help families navigate the challenges faced in the autism spectrum. I also want to advocate for better policies and support for autistic individuals. Ultimately, I aim to foster a nurturing environment that empowers both kids and their families.

What advice do you have for young people who are just starting their entrepreneurship journey?

My advice for young entrepreneurs is to embrace your uniqueness and follow your instincts. Understand the problems you want to solve and the audience you want to serve. Building a business takes time, so be patient and persistent. Seek feedback regularly, as it’s crucial for growth. Don’t hesitate to ask for help—surround yourself with a supportive network. Stay true to your vision and let your passion guide you through challenges.