Founded in 2013, “Birge ve Saghlam" Public Union (Together and Healthy), aims to provide support to individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families. The chairwoman of the Union is Aytan Eynalova, a devoted leader whose personal connection to autism through her son drives her dedication.
Since its inception, the Public Union has been actively involved in various projects and initiatives aimed at special education, societal integration, employment, and social welfare for individuals with autism spectrum. Looking forward, the Union envisions a future where quality inclusive education and equal opportunities are readily available for all people with disablities, including autism.
A significant milestone achieved by “Birge ve Saghlam" Public Union is the establishment of Autism Centers in Baku and Ganja. Recognizing the ongoing and compassionate efforts of the Autism Center, Mrs Mehriban Aliyeva, I Vice-president of Azerbaijan, has visited the center three times over the course of 10 years, demonstrating her heartfelt support for the children with autism.
Thanks to the initiative of Ms. Aliyeva and the generous support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, December 2021 marked the inauguration of a new central building for autism services, entrusted to the management of “Birge ve Saghlam" Public Union. Presently, the Autism Center in Baku caters to nearly a hundred children and teenagers, offering specialized rehabilitation and education services under expert guidance.
Recognizing the need for services beyond the capital, “Birge ve Saghlam" Public Union successfully advocated for the establishment of the Ganja Autism Center. This achievement was realized on April 11, 2023, with kind support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, during an official opening ceremony organized under ‘The Year of Heydar Aliyev’. The Ganja Autism Center not only serves individuals from various regions but also conducts educational programs and facilitates the professional development of healthcare specialists locally.
In 2017, Aytan Eynalova launched Kashalata Cafe, pioneering the first inclusive catering service facility of its kind in the nation. What sets Kashalata apart is its inclusive staff, comprising both autistic individuals and their neurotypical peers. Through their work at the cafe, autistic youth gain valuable life and professional skills, integrating into society while serving customers with warmth and dedication.
The name "Kashalata" holds a sentimental significance, originating from Aytan's son, Hamza, who coined the term during his early years in Turkey, blending two words, “kaşık” (spoon) and “salata” (salad), to refer to all meals. Inspired by this, Mrs. Aytan envisioned a cafe named Kashalata in her homeland, staffed by individuals with autism, embodying inclusivity and innovation.
Another remarkable initiative under BSIB is the "Blue Hearts" choir and rhythm group, serving as both an artistic outlet and a platform for talent discovery among autistic youth. With a repertoire of vibrant compositions, this group adds a special dimension to the Public Union, fostering creativity and self-expression.
The "International Autism ABA Azerbaijan" conference, organised by BSIB, stands as a pivotal event in advancing scientific research and raising awareness about autism. Bringing together experts from around the globe, this conference facilitates knowledge exchange and underscores the importance of addressing autism-related challenges in our society. As a recurring event, it promises to continue its impactful contributions in the years to come, fostering collaboration and progress in the field.
The Public Union continuously undertakes initiatives to study and apply international experiences in our country. The Union was elected as an associate member of Autism-Europe in 2013 and, and affiliate member of Inclusion International in 2024. It also has close partnerships with the USA's renowned "Autism Speaks" organization, known for its scientific research and autism-related projects, as well as with Turkey's esteemed Tohum Autism Foundation, SOBE Foundation, and Binyamin Birkan Akademi organization.
The "Inclusive Development Support Center," operating as an educational hub, was established by the Public Union to address a pressing demand for structured support in the professional advancement of personnel within relevant fields. Since its inception, the center has successfully conducted numerous professional development workshops and educational seminars in collaboration with the Ministry of Science and Education, UNICEF Azerbaijan, various private schools, and both public and private institutions.
Up to now, the Public Union has engaged in collaborative efforts on numerous projects and initiatives with esteemed organizations like Deloitte Azerbaijan, KPMG Azerbaijan, bp Azerbaijan, McKinsey & Company, and USAID. the Public Union has also partnered with several ministries and governmental institutions that are dedicated to offering ongoing support for our upcoming projects.
This year and in the future, the Public Union will strive to make its utmost contribution to the welfare of people with autism. The vision of the Public Union primarily encompasses the following objectives: transferring international knowledge to the country, obtaining international accreditation and certificates, supporting families in their caregiving roles, organizing and developing rehabilitation centers in various regions of the country, raising awareness about autism through educational campaigns and initiatives, organizing international and national conferences on autism, supporting early intervention programs, and promoting inclusive education and social inclusion for all.