When Christine’s son was diagnosed with autism 20 years ago, at the age of three, she realised there was, at that time, no educational provision for children like him in Bahrain. So, the professional singer put her stage costumes aside and set up the RIA Institute which has gone on to welcome hundreds of special needs and mainstream students.
You took a life-changing path when you set up RIA, what kept you going on this journey?
That’s an interesting question and the simple answer is, I never gave it much thought. It was something I needed to do for my son.
What’s been the biggest challenge and the proudest moment?
Oh, I think the biggest challenge was re-introducing the idea of inclusion. This had got lost somehow and many people were unnecessarily segregated. Some people are so caring and protective to the point they quite innocently remove the concept of ‘choice’ from the person with disability. Fortunately, Bahrain signed the CRPD (Convention of Rights for Persons with Disabilities) in June 2007, and ratified it on in September 2011, which mad things a lot better.
The proudest moment… hmm, oh of course going to Buck House [Bucking Palace in London] with my family, even Othmann was there and he kept quiet, to receive the MBE [awarded for her work on inclusion].
How did you feel being awarded your MBE?
Well, I will let you know when my feet hit the ground… honestly when you understand the process of receiving the award you will realise that there are things you HAVE done right. (Laughs) really honoured and inspired to carry on and serve.
What’s next for you?
Over the years I have been able to qualify in other fields that I have passion for which is still related to serving people. The first is a specialist hypnotherapy technique [called QHHT] to help with anxiety, and the second is my biggest passion – yoga.
I have met too many parents who struggle financially and emotionally to the point of breakdown. We need to find a way to stop judgement on people, especially when their children’s behavior is not ‘typical’… you need to stop me now as I could go on and on about this!
