From absence to advocacy withJamiel owens

The Autism Roundtable

What happens when a father, once distant, decides to turn his personal story into a mission of advocacy and change?

In this episode, Jamiel Owens shares his deeply moving journey—from navigating his son’s autism diagnosis to becoming a powerful voice in the autism community. Through personal challenges, professional growth, and community activism, Jamiel illustrates what it means to show up, speak out, and build lasting impact.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What was Jamiel’s turning point after his son’s autism diagnosis?
• How do fathers play a vital role in a child’s autism journey?
• What unique challenges does the Black community face in autism awareness and support?
• How can families prepare children with autism for emergency interactions, including with law enforcement?
• What does true advocacy look like in action?

Summary:

Jamiel Owens opens up about the early difficulties of accepting his son Shane’s autism diagnosis and his initial absence during that critical time. With honesty and vulnerability, he shares how he chose to grow from that place and step into advocacy. As Family Relations Coordinator at the Center for Autism Research at CHOP and founder of Awesomeness Incorporated, Jamiel is making systemic change through community outreach, law enforcement training, and parent education. He offers heartfelt advice for other parents—especially fathers—encouraging them to be present, breathe, and build a team around their child. His story is one of redemption, empowerment, and passionate service.

About The Guest:

Jamiel Owens is a dedicated autism advocate, father, and community leader. As the Family Relations Coordinator at the Center for Autism Research at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), and founder of the nonprofit Awesomeness Incorporated, Jamiel works to build stronger support systems for families of children with autism, with a special focus on underserved communities and emergency preparedness.

Key Takeaways:

• Presence matters: Fathers have a unique and irreplaceable role in a child’s autism journey.
• Breathe and build a team: No one should parent alone—support is essential.
• Community change starts local: Jamiel’s work shows how grassroots efforts can have systemic impact.
• Emergency preparedness saves lives: Training law enforcement and first responders is crucial.
• Redemption is possible: It’s never too late to show up and make a difference.

Time Stamps:

00:00 - Fatherhood and Autism: A Personal Journey

03:44 – The Importance of Fathers in Autism

06:31 – Advice for Parents: Breathing and Teamwork

12:09 – Challenges in the Black Community

16:47 – Spiritual Journey and Acceptance

19:30 – Advocacy and Community Work

23:51 – Fire Safety and Law Enforcement Training

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Jamiel Owens on LinkedIn:

Visit Awesomeness Incorporated:

Call to Action:

Inspired by Jamiel’s story?

Tune in to the full episode for a powerful reminder that showing up for your child—and your community—can spark real change.