Terence Barnett was diagnosed with Asperger’s the day after his 29th Birthday. Terence left university after his diagnosis but, rather than taking time for himself, he used the diagnosis to push him into action and now he hopes, with the help of
Sir Richard Branson, to start helping thousands of others with Autism.
Terence, who runs a blog called Autism Awareness and Social Business, hopes to inspire other young people on the Austistic spectrum to start up their own businesses.
Now he’s started The Millennial Coaching Company, which will offer free business advice, coaching and support to 18-30 year olds. In addition to this, the company will offer up to £25,000 low interest loans, training, mentoring and support to successful applicants.
“No individual’s life or career should be defined by a disability,” Terence, from Cambridge, told Closer.
“Before being diagnosed, it felt as if I was speaking another language for a while as I was constantly being misunderstood, ignored and misdiagnosed. It was happening with Doctor's, therapists, lecturers, professors, even my friends and family were getting me wrong.”
He adds: “I started my blog to help fight the stigma around autism and mental health. Hopefully people will also enjoy my stories and be surprised and inspired by what can be achieved if you put your heart and mind into things!”
Terence’s dream of getting backing for his business will become a reality if he wins Sir Richard’s latest initiative, Pitch To Rich 2015. Just 500 votes will see him through.
He added: “Winning this would be a dream come true and the prizes, such as; mentoring and networking would provide me with a sturdy foundation to build a team on, with the support from a network, who make things happen!”
To find more about Terence’s pitch, click here!