Nathan Thomas: Building a Neuroinclusive Future – From Dyspraxia to NeuroExpression & Beyond

In this episode, Theo Smith and Nathan discuss Nathan's personal journey with dyspraxia and his passion for empowering neurodivergent individuals.

Nathan founded NeuroExpression, a social enterprise that aims to provide a platform for neurodivergent artists and promote a neurodivergent-friendly world.

They explore the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in accessing support and funding, as well as the need for reasonable adjustments and feedback from the neurodivergent community.

The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the unique talents and perspectives of neurodivergent individuals.

The conversation explores the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the workplace and the importance of reasonable adjustments. It highlights the negative societal perception of neurodivergence and the need for a more inclusive and understanding culture. The role of AI in supporting neurodivergent individuals is also discussed.

The conversation concludes with a discussion on the future of work and the potential for entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship to create more inclusive environments.

Takeaways

• Nathan's personal journey with dyspraxia led him to found NeuroExpression, a social enterprise that empowers neurodivergent individuals and promotes a neurodivergent-friendly world.
• Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges in accessing support and funding, and there is a need for reasonable adjustments and feedback from the neurodivergent community.
• The educational system is geared towards verbal thinking, which puts visual thinkers at a disadvantage. There is a need for more awareness and support for different learning styles.
• Grant applications and funding processes can be barriers for neurodivergent individuals, and there is a need to empower them to apply for and be successful in obtaining grants.
• It is important to recognize and value the unique talents and perspectives of neurodivergent individuals and provide platforms for them to showcase their work. Society has a negative confirmation bias towards neurodivergence, seeing it as a barrier rather than a difference.
• Reasonable adjustments are essential to remove barriers for neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.
• The culture of the workplace and the attitude of colleagues and management are crucial in creating an inclusive environment.
• AI can be a valuable tool for neurodivergent individuals, enhancing productivity and providing support.
• Entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship can offer opportunities for neurodivergent individuals to thrive and contribute their unique strengths.

Key words: neurodiversity, dyspraxia, neurodivergent, social enterprise, empowerment, reasonable adjustments, funding, feedback, neurodivergence, workplace, reasonable adjustments, societal perception, culture, AI, entrepreneurship, intrapreneurship