Young Phil Bertino, an 18-year-old man living with autism, is preparing to embark on a bicycle ride from Accra to Tamale to raise awareness about tourism.
Phil, as he is affectionately called, is a professional cyclist, a pianist, a lawn tennis and basketball player, and a professional swimmer.
Angel Liz Acquah Bertino, Phil’s mother, told the Ghana News Agency that her son had previously undertaken similar bicycle rides to raise awareness about autism and to inspire others by demonstrating that there is ability in autism.
The Accra-to-Tamale Autism Awareness Ride will cover approximately 600 kilometers, aiming to challenge stereotypes and show that autism is not a limitation.
This ride will be Phil’s longest journey yet, intended to break barriers and promote inclusion for autistic individuals.
During his journey, he will visit schools to engage with students, share educational materials, and meet with local communities to foster a better understanding of autism. He will also distribute books and learning resources to underserved children.
“During these trips, Phil usually visits schools and communities to donate books and other educational materials while educating Ghanaians about autism,” his mother explained.
She shared that Phil’s dream is to become a top Paralympic cyclist for Ghana and called on stakeholders to support his aspirations.
“Phil can currently ride up to 255 kilometers per day,” she said.
Acquah Bertino, who is also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Litzino Centre for Children with Special Needs—a center that nurtures children with autism and other special needs through good nutrition, exercise, and massage—urged philanthropists and corporate organizations to support Phil’s dream.
