The Sunflower: A call for inclusivity
 

Hidden disabilities like autism have a profound impact on individuals and their families. In Singapore, with over 200 people diagnosed each year, the need for understanding and support is more important than ever.

That’s why Mastercard has become a proud member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, a global initiative to discreetly support individuals with non-visible conditions such as autism, dementia, and ADHD. By wearing the Sunflower symbol, people can signal that they may need extra time, patience, or assistance in public spaces, fostering greater empathy and inclusivity.

As part of this commitment, Mastercard has joined forces with St. Andrew’s Autism Centre, a Singapore-based organization dedicated to improving the lives of autistic persons through education, training, and care, to launch #AcceptanceMatters. Through this movement, we aim to help the local public better understand and support persons with autism.
 

“I’d love a state in the future where our son, as an adult, could live with other
adults to have a sense of independence. I envisage communal living
arrangements with other neurodiverse adults.”

— Natasha Prasad, mother to Jenson, who has autism

Our partners

We are pleased to work with organizations that share our vision of a more equitable and inclusive future:

St. Andrew’s Autism Centre

St. Andrew's Autism Centre is a Singapore-based organization dedicated to improving the lives of autistic persons through specialized education, therapeutic care, and support for families and caregivers. Its goal is simple—to help these individuals lead dignified and meaningful lives, regardless of their abilities.

HSBC

HSBC is dedicated to fostering financial inclusion and making banking accessible for individuals with different needs. In Singapore, the bank is progressively rolling out the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program across its branches and offices to support customers and employees with non-visible disabilities.

As part of this initiative, HSBC’s customer-facing employees are being trained to recognize the Sunflower symbol and provide respectful, tailored support. Physical wearables, such as lanyards, bracelets, and pins, will be available, enabling individuals to voluntarily share that they may need additional assistance. Through this initiative, HSBC aims to support financial inclusion by creating an accessible and welcoming experience for all customers.

Frasers Property Singapore

Frasers Property is committed to Creating Places for Good by fostering a safe and inclusive environment for persons with disabilities, including neurodivergent individuals on the autism spectrum. With a focus on inclusive People, Places, and Processes, its malls are designed for accessibility. Through its Inclusion Champions program, which offers inclusivity training for frontline staff and retail partners, and ‘Calm Hours,’ which provide a sensory-friendly atmosphere, Frasers Property ensures every visitor feels valued, respected, and supported in thriving, inclusive spaces.

A window into their world

Understanding autism is the first step toward acceptance. Discover our efforts in actively fostering a more compassionate
society by helping people see the world through the eyes of individuals with autism.

“Some people think that persons with autism wouldn’t know or care about being
included—that’s an absolute injustice and disgusting attitude. They have feelings.
They can laugh, smile, feel hurt, and cry just like all of us.”

— Money, caregiver to his autistic son, Jeevan