In a powerful celebration of diversity and compassion, multi-talented autistic artist and runway model Tobechi Achionye, popularly known as Kind Toby, has made history with the debut edition of the Inclusive Runway for Kindness show. The groundbreaking event brought together children with special needs to mark the 2025 World Kindness Day in a spectacular fashion.
A Historic Gathering for Inclusion
The memorable event took place on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at the School for Special Needs in Kuje, Abuja, under the inspiring theme "Kindness for All Abilities." This historic gathering successfully united over 100 children with diverse abilities and backgrounds alongside professional models, fashion designers, educators, and dignitaries in a vibrant display of inclusion and creativity.
World Kindness Day, celebrated globally every November 13, emphasizes the transformative power of kindness in communities worldwide. The day encourages individuals to transcend boundaries of race, religion, and background to extend compassion to others.
Fashion as a Tool for Social Change
Inspired by Kind Toby's own journey as the first male autistic model to walk an African runway, the Inclusive Runway for Kindness demonstrated how fashion can serve as a powerful vehicle for inclusion and social transformation. The event featured custom-designed outfits by Abdul of Romzy fashion house, which beautifully highlighted vibrant diversity and confidence.
Each child walked the runway with remarkable pride and poise, proving conclusively that fashion possesses the unique ability to empower individuals and build equality. The colorful runway brought together children, parents, and fashion enthusiasts, including Zee Michael Obasi, Creative Director of Herboojah, along with representatives from corporate organizations such as Transcorp Hilton, FRSC, Nigerian Police, educators, and community members.
Powerful Performances and Messages of Hope
The event featured an electrifying live performance by Kind Toby himself, who captivated the audience with his hit songs "I Be Somebody" and "Be Kind" featuring OG Agbbah. His performance reinforced the central message of unity and kindness that defined the occasion.
Other highlights included the Walk for Kindness, featuring Kind Toby as the lead model alongside other professional models clothed by Herboojah. Speaking about the event's significance, Kind Toby described the Inclusive Runway as "a movement of love" that ensures every child feels seen and valued. He emphasized that "We all can be somebody when we choose kindness."
Stakeholders Rally Behind Inclusion Movement
In their goodwill messages, numerous stakeholders praised Kind Toby and his team for using this historic event to celebrate courage, inclusion, and creativity. Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, commended the initiative, stating that "Inclusion is the hallmark of any kindness."
He highlighted that this philosophy motivated President Bola Tinubu to create the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on People with Special Needs for inclusive empowerment. Hon. Isa called on corporate bodies and individuals to partner in advancing the cause of inclusion for persons with disabilities.
Mrs. Noni Okocha, CEO of the NGO 'I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative,' observed that the children demonstrated the true beauty of inclusion and kindness through their creativity and courage. Senator Frank Ibezim, founder of the Senator Frank Ibezim Foundation, emphasized the need for equitable systems and structures to promote acceptance and access for children with special needs.
"All we are trying to do is to encourage inclusion because there is a strong ability in every disability," Senator Ibezim noted, adding that the event represented more than a fashion showcase but rather a powerful statement of love and inclusion with national impact.
Corporate Support and Literary Launch
Mr. Martin Zarybnicky, General Manager of Transcorp Hilton Abuja, represented by Mr. Ifeanyi Nnadi, praised the initiative and confirmed that it aligned perfectly with their vision and commitment to impactful community programs.
Dr. Onyi Achionye, Founder of Raise Health & Wellness Organization (RHWO) and custodian of the Kind Toby initiative, expressed deep appreciation to all stakeholders who supported the project. She emphasized that such gestures would foster inclusive opportunities, creative empowerment, and awareness programs for individuals with diverse abilities.
The event reached its climax with the launch of the Ifon Literacy Kindness and Disability Books, authored by Renee Okocha and Zara Okocha, founders of "I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative" and authors of over 70 children's books for the Ifon Classroom Library Project. These innovative storybooks, inspired by persons with disabilities and Kind Toby, aim to promote empathy, confidence, and understanding of disability inclusion among children in schools and special learning centers.
According to the organizers, the Inclusive Runway for Kindness is set to become an annual event committed to advancing inclusion, diversity, and kindness through fashion and creative expression. The initiative continues to empower children with disabilities to celebrate their uniqueness and collectively shape a more inclusive society for all Nigerians.
