Jamiel Owens
Jamiel is a passionate advocate, community leader, and father committed to reshaping the narrative around autism, fatherhood, and resilience. As the proud father of a teenage son on the autism spectrum, Jamiel’s personal journey has fueled his professional mission: to elevate the voices of families, particularly fathers, navigating the world of autism.
Born and raised in North Philadelphia, Jamiel’s life has been defined by service, empathy, and perseverance. As a disabled individual himself, he has turned his life challenges into a source of empowerment for others, especially men who often suffer in silence. His career path reflects this commitment: from serving as a law enforcement officer and civil servant to becoming a volunteer firefighter and a trusted voice in the autism community.
Currently, Jamiel serves as the Family Relations Coordinator at the Center for Autism Research at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), where he plays a pivotal role in strengthening family engagement, advocacy, and support. He is also the founder of the Autism Fathers Conference—an initiative designed to provide a safe space for fathers to connect, heal, and lead. Through this work, Jamiel inspires others to speak up, show up, and build a more inclusive future.
