Fostering neurodivergent minds is more important than ever before, with more research being done into how neurodivergent minds work.

This session will start at childhood, with Anna talking about creating code clubs for neurodivergent children, and go right through to adulthood, with Isi sharing their experience of finding hacks that work with their neurodivergent brain and how their workplace has offered accommodations. Code Clubs are invaluable, and are definitely doing a great job to attract children from different minorities into the industry, but unfortunately, not necessarily those who are neurodiverse.

When this became apparent to Anna, she joined forces with a local Code Club, and a charity for children with special needs, and together they have set up a monthly Code Club that offers a safe, comfortable environment for neurodiverse children. Isi only realised they were neurodivergent as an adult in their first 9-5 job – and suddenly a lot of their experiences made sense.

Whilst office jobs are often too inaccessible for neurodivergent people, Isi found ways to hack their brain, and alongside workplace accommodations, has found a way to thrive.

Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself or not, this session aims to bring awareness to how our brains work, and inspire you to use your tech experience to empower neurodivergent kids, or enable accommodations to make the tech industry more accessible.