In our day in age, sometimes can be a challenge to navigate new environments and face the reality that some communities are denied basic rights just because they are deemed unfit. However, some individuals strive to bring change and take action. Young Activist Aquayemi-Claude Garnett Akinsanya is one of them, creating the UK petition, Claudes SEN law, that looks to fight inequality within the special needs education community. The individuals from these communities are denied basic educational rights, which hinders their development and progression to the workplace. Therefore, today, Claude comes to share his story and the story behind the campaign, so you can to, raise awareness of this cause and help reach 10.000 signatures to reform UK governmental laws.

Before talking about your project Claudes SEN Law, can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a 23-year-old Student, Youth Delegate, Author, Campaigner and Philanthropist who believes in a decent standard of education to be delivered as a result of my own challenges of still being denied education – from 2017 till now- which is 4 years of lost provision which was unelected.

I am legally lawful entitled to Education. Like millions of SEN families and young adults, which have to face these challenges for years. That’s why I came up with the idea of (The Claudes SEN Law)

When did you decide to take part in helping causes like this? Have you ever been part of other projects similar to this one?

Since I was young, I’ve always been a charitable person. Which is within my nature. I’ve always had a sense of empathy, level of understanding for others.

I honestly believe we can live in an equal, inclusive world. Where our voice is heard for what we are equally entitled to.

I’ve just been working on my first ( of two ) books which was released on 6th April 2020.

Yes, recently I’ve been part of some youth projects to help my message and growth of understanding for change. Whilst I call for action in regards to “The Claudes SEN Law.”

After years of unelected lost provision within my education, I’ve been in more court cases than an educational environment. Currently, my local authority refuses to name my placement, which was given to me successfully! Following tribunal hearing back on March 11th 2020. The decision was legally binding. The local authority was barred from hearing.

This was the catalyst for the creation of “The Claudes SEN Law.” I found that home studying does not work for me. The local authority has refused to follow the court decision, trying their very best to deliver my Education through Zoom and other tuition. Which is rather impossible when you are homeless without equipment and do not study well this way.