This special article presents my developments and experiences during this year’s Neurodiversity Celebration Week.

My summary
My week began on Monday with attending the annual event, the Photography and Video Show. This year’s event took place at Birmingham’s NEC, where I explored not only the showcase of photography and filming equipment, but also gained insight from influencers and social media content creators.

During my networking and meeting people, I encountered two individuals who were part of the event and are neurodivergent. Peter is a professional cyclist and social influencer. While having an informal conversation with him, he shared that he lives with ADHD.
As it was the second time I attended, I also met various people whom I had encountered when the event was previously held in Birmingham two years ago. One of the people I met before was Hattie, a model, broadcaster and influencer. When I was explaining my awareness role, she shared with me that she is also neurodivergent, living with dyslexia.
With permission, both individuals will be featured on my Plus Value Awareness project, Achievers.

Highlights from this event will be available soon on a new blog.

As I am a member of the scrutiny group of my housing provider, I also attended a meeting to share my insights and discuss potential developments.

On Wednesday, I attended a special workplace diversity event "Understanding and Celebrating Differing Minds" organised by the West Midlands Combined Authority. The event focused on sharing good practice in supporting neurodivergent employees in the workplace. This included contributions from CEOs and key workers across specific departments.

Highlights from this event will be available soon on a new blog

On Friday, I took part in my regular community-based dance classes. On the evening, I was teaching beginner-level salsa to students. One of the most important responsibilities is to be accommodating and to adapt learning for students who may find certain dance steps challenging due to health challenges.

My Developments

As well as connecting with different communities, I was also developing a range of content. This included two new insight articles. One focuses on the progress still needed in relation to neurodiversity beyond the workplace. The other is a special neurodiversity edition of a year-long article theme on embracing talent.
For the first time, I also created a personal insight article combining my experiences and developments.

Creative & Possibilities
Developed in conjunction with Birmingham Design (the organisation behind the Birmingham Design Festival), I wrote a personal perspective on my journey and creative ambition. This includes my early journey through education, along with the barriers and obstacles I faced, which led to a variety of developments through connecting with different parts of communities and society.

The Achievers
Eight years ago, when I began supporting Neurodiversity Celebration Week through my awareness website, Plus Value Awareness, I launched an information list highlighting inspiring neurodivergent role models and achievers. The objective is to inspire and ensure that every neurodivergent person never gives up on their ambitions and passions.
To support this year’s event, the project has undergone a major revamp, including a new look and a change of title to Achievers. At the same time, more names have been added to the list.

Stop the Stigma
After five years of development, I have now unveiled a brand-new awareness project on my website. The new Stop the Stigma project provides information and guidance, emphasising that everyone has a responsibility to reduce and challenge negative stigma towards neurodivergent adults.

Additional insight blogs

Additional insight blogs
Additional blog was developed with neurodiversity version of the two themed insight and analysis articles.

including:

Time to Choose

The importance on making the right decisions and not make irrational rections

Embrace talent

Explore the positive qualities and embrace ambitious and talented individuals