Welcome to a transformative online workshop designed for beginners eager to understand neurodiversity and its profound impact on individuals and workplaces. This interactive session will guide you through foundational concepts and critical discussions to create awareness, empathy, and inclusion.
👉 What is Neurodiversity?
👉 Key Terms Demystified
👉 Paradigm Shift from Medical to Social Models
👉 Common Traits and Experiences of Neurodivergent Persons
👉 Ableism and Neuronormativity
👉 Intersection of Gender and Neurodivergence
👉 Impact of Invalidating Language
👉 Toward Neuro-Affirmative and Inclusive Workplaces
Duration: 1.5 hour
Date & Time: 29th November 2025, 11 AM to 12:30 PM
Facilitator: Usri Basistha (They/She) – Associate, inclusion at Work, Queer Affirmative Counsellor, Advisor & Trainer (ADAH).
Mode: Online (Microsoft Teams)
We begin by introducing the concept of neurodiversity — the recognition that neurological differences such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc. are natural variations of the human brain rather than deficits or disorders. This foundational idea challenges traditional views and celebrates diverse ways of thinking and processing.
Participants will learn essential terminology including neurotypical (those whose neurological development aligns with societal norms) and neurodivergent (individuals whose neurological development differs from those norms). Understanding these terms is crucial to engaging respectfully and knowledgeably.
We unpack how neurodiversity represents a paradigm shift away from the psychiatric medical model—which often pathologizes neurological differences—toward a social model that focuses on societal barriers and inclusivity.
The workshop explores common traits among neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing variability and individuality rather than stereotypes, adopting a nuanced understanding.
We critically examine ableist structures and neuronormativity—the expectation that there is one “normal” or “correct” way of thinking and behaving—and how these perpetuate exclusion and discrimination.
A crucial segment addresses how gender identity intersects with neurodivergence, highlighting the increased risk of violence, discrimination, and invisibility faced by neurodivergent people, particularly those who are female-bodied, trans, or gender-diverse.
Participants will understand how language that dismisses or undermines neurodivergent experiences can cause significant harm, affecting mental health, self-esteem, and access to opportunities.
Finally, we explore practical strategies for creating neuro-affirmative workplaces that accommodate diverse neurological needs, challenge ableist norms, and promote belonging, productivity, and well-being for all employees.
This live, interactive session combines expert presentations with real-life examples, group discussions, and Q&A, ensuring an engaging and accessible learning experience.
Join us to deepen your understanding, challenge assumptions, and become a proactive agent of change toward more inclusive, equitable environments.
