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Neurodiversity: How to Build a More Inclusive Community & Better Communicate

Neurodiversity: Learning How to Build a More Inclusive Community & Better Communicate

At FIRST, we continue to pioneer change within the industry to create a more inclusive events space for all brain types. Partnering with Google, we supported the launch of The Neu Project, an initiative led by a diverse, global community working together to make the world more welcoming and productive for neurodivergent communities. The Neu Project also created a guide to explore the significance of creating events that are inclusive of all neurotypes. It’s full of practical strategies for curating experiences that are considerate of all minds and can be implemented anywhere.

This month, FIRST hosted an internal panel discussion about Neurodiversity. It was moderated by SVP, Strategy & Innovation Adam Suellentrop and Creative Strategist, Alana Cohen. Panelists included Resourcing Assistant, Tsian DeFour, Data Coordinator, Carly Fizzano, Event Manager, Alexander Hernandez, Group President, Barry Richards, and Senior P&C Business Partner, Natalie St. Louis.

The discussion consisted of our panelists detailing their experiences with neurodiversity, whether from their own personal experiences or knowing someone close to them who is neurodiverse. Discussions ranged from autism, to ADHD, to social anxiety and more, allowing our panelists and audience members to connect and share in a safe space.

While sharing their experiences, our panelists also had some key takeaways about neurodiversity and events:

Communicate effectively: Neurodivergent people often process and communicate differently from neurotypical people, so event communications should go above and beyond to be comprehensive, direct, informative, accessible, and in advance.
Provide choices: By offering flexibility and options, you can help to remove barriers of expectation that you have to experience an event in just one planned way. This gives neurodivergent people the opportunity to make their own choices on how to engage at an event.

Give space: Break rooms and recovery spaces can offer attendees a neutral space away from the main event and are crucial when it comes to creating inclusive spaces at events.

Keep an eye out for inclusive spaces: While many businesses still have a lot of work to do when it comes to creating inclusive spaces for all brain types, some places have already made the change! There are airports that have quiet spaces to help with overstimulation, some restaurants will allow for extra time while dining, and more!
Be proud: Being neurodiverse comes with challenges, but you can harness it and use it as your superpower! Neurodiversity offers a unique way of looking at problems and the world.

Neurodivergent people make up 20% of the global population, with some estimates being as high as 30-40%, which is why it is so important to create spaces that are inclusive of all brain types is so important. Creating inclusive spaces allows for all brain types to comfortably engage and collaborate with each other, increasing creativity and innovation. Having conversations, like the panel discussion, where people can share their experiences, helps to normalize neurodiversity and spark change within our world.