A Wandsworth man has been announced as a finalist in the ‘Outstanding Achievement by an Individual on the Autism Spectrum Award.’

Nathaniel Hawley, 27, was recognised for his contributions as an entrepreneur and campaigner, and has provided training for more than 2,000 people in the last two years with a range of diverse conditions.

The winners will be announced at a special ceremony on March 7 in Birmingham, as part of the National Autistic Society’s Professional Conference.

Nathaniel has been described as a successful business leader, social entrepreneur and trustee of multiple charities-and of course an avid campaigner for people on the Autistic Spectrum.

The 27-year-old said: “I'm honoured to have been shortlisted in the Autism Professionals Awards 2019.

“The work that we have achieved in the community and with Exceptional Individuals is something I am incredibly proud of.

“Autism, with the right support, is an amazing gift, it is my life passion to empower these creative thinkers and innovators, supporting them to achieve their highest potential."

The annual Autism Professionals Awards were launched in 2013 to recognise people, services and schools across the UK who are making a difference to autistic people and their families.

There are 12 awards for individuals and organisations, covering education, health, social care, employment, and volunteering.

There are around 700,000 autistic people in the UK.

Carol Povey, director of the National Autistic Society’s Centre for Autism, said: “We run the Autism Professionals Awards each year to recognise and celebrate the people, projects and organisations doing amazing things for autistic children, adults, or their families.”

Find out more and read the full programme here: https://www.autism.org.uk/conferences.