Zoe-Rebekah Bostic from Grovetown, GA Speaks about Her Goals and How She is Engaged in Her Community

My name is Zoe-Rebekah Bostic, and I am an Autism Champion. I am more than my disability. I am a student, daughter, sister, content creator, cheerleader, soon-to-be published author, and a dedicated member of my community. I want to remind readers that you can do it. Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re not good enough. People with disabilities matter, we have a voice in this world, and we have the power to make a difference.

I am still in high school and will graduate in May 2027 and I'm really excited about it. After high school, I plan on attending one of Georgia’s Inclusive Post Secondary Education (IPSE) programs. I want to explore other IPSE programs before making my final decision. So far, I’ve visited the University of Georgia’s (UGA) Destination Dawgs IPSE Program and three other IPSE programs to learn more about their programs to see if they’re a good fit for me. My mom and I plan to visit more colleges to find the best option for me. My goal is to be a teacher. I hope to become a Special Education teacher, just like my favorite teacher, Mrs. Hinds.

I am demonstrating independence and self-advocacy in my life today. I make my own decisions about what’s best for me, such as choosing where I want to go to college and what I want to study. I also choose what type of activities I want to participate in. I also talk to other students about supported decision-making and the importance of using their voices. I also volunteer and participate in school activities to show others that they can achieve their goals while also working to make the world a more inclusive place. 

Additionally, I am an active member of my community. I volunteer with Lasagna Love, where I make lasagna for families each month. I also serve as an usher and participate in the Women’s Ministry at my church. At school, I’m involved in the Buddy Club and Student Council as a youth advocate. As a content creator, I share my personal story to inspire others and show them that they can achieve anything they set their minds to.

My goals and dreams include learning how to drive so I can drive independently to school. I also plan to go to college to become a teacher, get married, and have children. I hope to live next door to my mom so she can help watch my children when I go to work, and we can still spend time together because we’re best friends.

Hobbies and awards I have recently been recognized for include learning how to sew. I also have a passion for drawing and dancing and enjoy cheerleading, bowling, and solving my Rubik’s Cube. I am part of a competitive cheer squad, and we are national champions. I am also a cheerleader for my school football team and a Special Olympics athlete. In my spare time, I compete in pageants to inspire others who are like me. I am proud to have been named 4-H Volunteer of the Year for two years in a row. I love helping others and advocating for a world where all abilities are celebrated and making the world more inclusive.

In addition to my family, the people who support me in my community include my Cheerleading “Squad,” which includes my school supporters, IEP team, teachers, tutor, and therapists – my private speech and occupational therapist. They help me work toward my academic and independent living goals. I have an incredible team of medical doctors who support me and ensure I receive the best medical care. I cannot forget about my dentist and her team. They are the best and they keep my teeth pearly white. I also have an amazing team at my local YMCA who support my physical goals and are teaching me how to swim. My church family plays a big role in my spiritual growth, and my cheer sisters help me learn teamwork.

Follow me on Instagram to see what I am up to at @zoetheautismdiva.

“What’s Happening in Your Town” features the perspectives of people with developmental disabilities about their own experiences in their communities. The column gives them a space to freely share their own opinions and their lived experiences with others. Interested in writing an article? Send an email to Tianna Faulkner, Editor-in-Chief at.

My name is Leslie Kate Thornton. I'm from Saint Mary's, Georgia, near the Georgia/Florida state line. Beautiful coastal landscapes and a strong sense of community are all around me. Living near Florida allows me to experience the best of both states, from the charming southern hospitality of Georgia to the vibrant culture and beaches of Florida. I have always been passionate about community engagement and assisting individuals to make a positive impact. Throughout my career, I have worked with various organizations and initiatives that aim to create meaningful change. I am excited to share my experiences and insights with you. I want to inspire others to act in their communities.

One of the most significant barriers is education. Professionals think they have all the education they need to know about what I am incapable of. I have realized through my experience that it seems these professionals are trained to deal with non-disabled people, and that customization and fairness are such foreign concepts to many educators that it seems incomprehensible to them.

My goal in life goal is to let people know they are wonderfully made, loved, and have a purpose. Additionally, my goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of physical or mental abilities, is afforded the same opportunities to live their best life. I’m passionate about people with disabilities having real lives, jobs, genuine relationships, and making real decisions. A key aspiration of mine is to introduce viable and accessible services to southeast Georgia, enriching the lives of individuals in our community. We have a rather large community of people with disabilities without access to services. I want to break the graduation-to-couch cycle. I believe that everyone deserves the chance to thrive and contribute to society in meaningful ways.

By providing accessible services in southeast Georgia, we can help individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling and independent lives, breaking the cycle of limited opportunities and dependence. As someone who represents myself and my community, I am steadfast in my commitment to fostering an environment that includes and is more supportive for individuals with disabilities. By coming together through collaboration, encouragement, and support, we can strive to build a society that is fair where everyone can achieve their full potential. With conviction, I believe southeast Georgia has the potential to become a model that includes and gives everybody access, inspiring other Georgia communities to follow suit.

Together, let's remove barriers and promote understanding to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for all individuals to thrive. While this community has many proactive individuals, raising awareness remains a significant challenge that we must address. Let's work to increase awareness and education about the needs and abilities of individuals with disabilities to assist our community to make meaningful changes that benefit everyone. Additionally, providing resources and support for individuals with disabilities can help ensure that they have equal opportunities to participate fully in community life. Together, let's work to foster a culture of acceptance and including everyone to build a stronger, more cohesive community that values and embraces all its members.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my passion for including and ensuring everyone in southeast Georgia has access. I hope to set a new standard for fairness that includes everyone in our community.