11 hours ago
From Cameroon to BCBA-D: Sylvie Nguena on Autism Advocacy, Cultural Adaptation, ACT, and Global Behaviour Analysis
When Sylvie Nguena's daughter Meghan was diagnosed with autism at age four, she began a journey that would eventually lead her from accounting to becoming a doctoral-level behaviour analyst, researcher, author, advocate, and international trainer. In this episode, Sylvie shares how her experiences as a parent shaped her career and inspired her mission to expand autism awareness, behaviour analytic services, and caregiver support both in the United States and Cameroon.
Sylvie discusses the cultural realities surrounding autism and developmental disabilities in Cameroon, where stigma and misconceptions often prevent families from accessing support. She describes how community-centred approaches, local partnerships, and culturally adapted interventions can help bridge service gaps while honouring the values and traditions of the communities being served.
The conversation also explores Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACTr), caregiver wellbeing, culturally responsive practice, community engagement, and the work of the Lewuh Marvellous Meghan Foundation. Throughout the discussion, Sylvie highlights the importance of listening first, partnering with local communities, and building sustainable systems that empower families and professionals alike.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bBJdWWiibYA
Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop)
BACB: 1.0 Ethics
IBAO: 1.0 Cultural
QABA: 1.0 General
CBA/CPD: 1.0 Cultural Diversity
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Dr. Sylvie Claire Nguena and The Lewuh Marvelous Meghan Foundation
https://lewuhmarvelousmeghanfinc.orghttps://www.instagram.com/marvelous_meghan/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvie-claire-nguena-ph-d-bcba-d-lba-iba-b9b704a6/en
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=marvelous+meghan+our+big+sister
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=la+merveilleuse+meghan+notre+grande+soeur
Marvelous Meghan: Sometimes we Feel (English and French editions)
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=marvelous+meghan+sometimes+we+feel
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=la+merveilleuse+meghan+parfois+on+ressent
Looking for more conversations on representation, acceptance and commitment training, and expanding behaviour analytic services globally? Check out these related Behaviour Speak episodes:
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Dr. Danielle Jeudy and Dr. Jewel Parham join the podcast to discuss representation, mentorship, leadership, and creating meaningful pathways for Black behaviour analysts
🔹 Empowering Parents and Staff with Acceptance and Commitment Training with Dr. Ashley Carrigan
Dr. Ashley Carrigan explores how Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) can help parents, caregivers, and professionals build psychological flexibility, resilience, and values-based action in everyday practice.
🔹 Building Autism Services in Kenya and Tanzania: Dr. Pooja Panesar on Leadership, Inclusion and Behaviour Analysis
Dr. Pooja Panesar shares her experiences developing autism and behaviour analytic services in East Africa, highlighting the importance of cultural responsiveness, sustainable capacity building, community partnerships, and inclusive leadership.
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