Neurodiversity Celebration Week – Together, we can make strides to expand our inclusivity.

Today marks the start of?Neurodiversity Celebration Week, a global initiative that seeks not only to change our perception of neurodivergent individuals, but also encourages us to increase our understanding and help them realize their ambitions and thrive.??

Roughly 15-20% of the world’s population exhibits some form of neurodivergence, such as autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia. Yet, the?unemployment rate for neurodivergent individuals?is as high as 30-40%, making them three times less likely to be employed than those with any other disability and eight times less likely than those without disabilities.

Having experienced the bias and misconception that can arise when people meet those with neurological differences like my now adult autistic son, I invite you to make a difference.?Please join me in gaining a deeper understanding, expanding our definition of inclusivity and finding value in the different ways people think and experience the world.??

From Deloitte research, we know that organizations that make an extra effort to recruit, retain, and nurture neurodivergent workers can gain a competitive edge from increased diversity in skills to ways of thinking and approaches to problem-solving.

Together, we can change the neurotypical narrative and create?a world that supports and values the talents of neurodivergent people. My own experience has made me far wiser, grateful and appreciative of the opportunity to see the world and experience life through my son’s eyes. With patience and purposeful intentionality, that same great possibility is there for you, too.