Kevin Valdez has a passion for the performing arts, starting a young age.

The Ripon High Class of 2018 product was the guest speaker at last week’s Annual Autism Forum co-hosted by San Joaquin County Special Education Local Plan Area or SELPA and the Region 6 CAPTAIN (California Autism Professional Training and Information Network) Cadre.

“(This) brought together over 115 attendees for a day of learning, connection, and conversation,” said the San Joaquin County Office of Education April 4 post.

The special event at SJCOE in Stockton also featured Kevin Schaefer, director of Inclusion Practices at El Dorado Count Office of Education, serving as the keynote speaker. He spoke about the powerful insights of fostering inclusion.

Valdez shared his journey of growing up with autism and what he’s accomplished as an adult.

He participated in the Inclusion Films program while in high school and starred in television shows such as “Little Voice” and movies like “Get Him Back for Christmas.”

Valdez, who was joined by his parents Roger and Janet – they’re part of his support system, which helped thrive in the entertainment industry – was also nominated for the prestigious Imagen Award for acting.

His acting roots began at age 14 in the Cornerstone Community Church’s production of “Cinderella Kids.”

Valdez, who was also involved in the RHS Drama Club, went on to do “Seussical Jr.” and “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.”

The annual Autism Forum also consisted of a panel of students and adults, sharing their personal experiences and perspectives.