For the first time, NGO Nóiz brings “Each Mind, Its World” to Cidade de Deus: an afternoon of art, music and sensory activities for children with ASD.
On April 2, World Autism Awareness Day, the Cidade de Deus community in Rio de Janeiro’s Southwest Zone will host a groundbreaking initiative. NGO Nóiz is launching its first-ever event, “Each Mind, Its World” (Cada Mente, Seu Mundo), designed specifically for children on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) served by the organization.
The event is far more than a symbolic gesture. Running from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the NGO’s headquarters, the afternoon brings together art, music, play and sensory experiences — all carefully adapted to honor each child’s unique needs. The environment is designed to be safe, welcoming and flexible enough for every participant to experience the day in their own way.
Inclusion beyond the buzzword
In a society still shaped by misinformation and stigma around autism, the initiative aims to spark real reflection on empathy, respect and meaningful inclusion. It also reaffirms the NGO’s commitment to building a more equitable future — one where every child is seen, valued and embraced for who they truly are.
It’s not just about understanding autism — it’s about learning to genuinely live with difference. Inclusion isn’t about adapting these children to the world; it’s about preparing the world for them.
André Melo, president of NGO Nóiz and father of a child with level 3 autism support needs
André Melo speaks from lived experience. Beyond leading the organization, he is the father of an autistic child with level 3 support needs, bringing a deeply personal dimension to the work.
Eight years of impact in Cidade de Deus
NGO Nóiz has been working in the Cidade de Deus community for eight years, running programs focused on education, culture and social development. Today, the organization directly and indirectly supports more than 250 children and around 400 families living in situations of social vulnerability. This deep-rooted community presence is what gives the event its true weight: it is not a one-off gesture, but an expression of a lasting bond.
Event Info
- Event: Each Mind, Its World (Cada Mente, Seu Mundo)
- Date: April 2, 2026 (World Autism Awareness Day)
- Time: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Location: NGO Nóiz headquarters — Rua Projetada L, S/Nº, Cidade de Deus (Karatê – Rocinha 2), Jacarepaguá, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Admission: Free (targeted at ASD children served by the NGO)
- More info: Instagram @noizprojetosocial, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube
