Autistica is marking its 20th anniversary with the release of a powerful short film, Our World, 2030. This two-minute piece captures the challenges that autistic and neurodivergent people face, while also highlighting Autistica’s work towards its ambitious 2030 Goals – a vision for a world where autistic people can lead happier, healthier, and longer lives.
Our World, 2030 has been brought to life with a cast of neurodivergent actors who are passionate about Autistica’s groundbreaking research. The cast includes one especially notable face: Bradley Riches, celebrated for his role as James McEwan in acclaimed Netflix series Heartstopper, and as a former contestant on Celebrity Big Brother.
For Bradley, who was announced as Autistica’s first celebrity ambassador earlier in the year, participating in Our World, 2030 was a unique way of using his acting skills to give back to a charity close to his heart.
Bradley Riches in HEJ Coffee filming Our World, 2030
I really enjoyed being involved with Our World, 2030. We’ve created something very special that has a very important message and I’ve had a lot of fun while doing so. It’s been great to be able to use my acting skills to give a voice to those who may not have found theirs yet. My hope is that Our World, 2030 encourages everyone to better understand and accept neurodivergent people and that it inspires greater empathy and awareness of the unique challenges facing autistic people.
Bradley Riches, Actor and Autistica Ambassador
Our CEO Dr James Cusack, who is the UK's first openly autistic Chief Executive of a major national charity, appears in the film as himself.
‘We wanted to celebrate the diverse range of autistic experiences and the vital role of Autistica in delivering the groundbreaking research that supports autistic individuals and their families,’
‘This film is integral in showing how, together, we can make a difference and create a more inclusive world for all,’ says James.
Our World, 2030 is available to watch on our website and YouTube channel.