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.
Workshop Overview:
π What is Neurodiversity?
π Key Terms Demystified
π Paradigm Shift from Medical to Social Models
π Common Traits and Experiences of Neurodivergent Persons
π Ableism and Neuronormativity
π Intersection of Gender and Neurodivergence
π Impact of Invalidating Language
π 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)
Mode: Online (Microsoft Teams)
We begin by introducing the concept of neurodiversity β 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.Β
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.Β
We unpack how neurodiversity represents a paradigm shift away from the psychiatric medical modelβwhich often pathologizes neurological differencesβtoward a social model that focuses on societal barriers and inclusivity.Β
The workshop explores common traits among neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing variability and individuality rather than stereotypes, adopting a nuanced understanding.Β
We critically examine ableist structures and neuronormativityβthe expectation that there is one βnormalβ or βcorrectβ way of thinking and behavingβand how these perpetuate exclusion and discrimination.Β
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.Β
Participants will understand how language that dismisses or undermines neurodivergent experiences can cause significant harm, affecting mental health, self-esteem, and access to opportunities.Β
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.Β
This live, interactive session combines expert presentations with real-life examples, group discussions, and Q&A, ensuring an engaging and accessible learning experience.Β
Join us to deepen your understanding, challenge assumptions, and become a proactive agent of change toward more inclusive, equitable environments.Β
For me it's a very insightful session.....Normally we keep thinking that gender is the only thing [area of focus] when we hear about Diversity; but the way this session ... unfolded [I found] there's so much to learn. And now I literally feel that it's a journey... It's not only about this session and it's not only about two hours - so I personally am looking forward to that certificate course that you're talking about because this is such a subject [where] there is no end to the learning. And when we actually implement this learning at the workplace, this can play wonder. So I'm very excited and I look forward to learning more on the subject so that I can make a difference at the workplace.
DEIB, as a concept, is something that has not yet become mainstream in higher education. Attending the workshop helped me gather some knowledge about the fundamentals of DEIB, and the essential need for it in today's workplaces. I liked the visual aids and activities in the workshop, which served as a great icebreaker. Hopefully, I can use the learnings from this workshop for advocating for DEIB in my workplace in future.
Samriti recently facilitated a session on casual sexism at our institution β this was very empowering and went a long way towards setting expectations at work, challenging the often-dominant social ideas that oppress groups and increase vulnerability. She also created a space to deconstruct internal bias and social influences that prevent creation of inclusive and safe professional environment for all. Samriti handled this conversation with nuance and sensitivity, bringing examples from her vast expertise, keeping the session interactive and supportive β even through a virtual platform. We look forward to working with Samriti again.
Thanks for the workshop it was really eye opener
I have worked with the Equilibrio Advisory team for several years now, availing their services for building safe and inclusive workspaces. Our association has not only been in terms of onboarding for POSH compliance and services, but also having conversations around DEIB, mental health support for employees, and improving Workplace Wellbeing. These services have spanned interventions like offering therapeutic support, skill building workshops awareness and sensitization sessionsβ bringing focus onto marginalized groups including women at work. The training and awareness sessions have been particularly supportive, engaging and informative, with facilitators being well informed, on pulse with current issues and high levels of interaction even on virtual platforms that has brought in positive feedback from participants regularly.
You guys are doing a great job indeed
Thank you for facilitating this session today. It was reflective, insightful and enabling. For sure our women talent are highly motivated to Take Charge of their journeys at MHRIL.
