Three Key Learnings:
1. Intersectionality – Race, culture, and identity shape how neurodivergence is experienced and perceived. Many Black and culturally diverse individuals struggle to receive diagnoses due to racial bias, cultural stigma, and systemic barriers in healthcare.

2. Misconceptions & Safety Risks – Neurodivergence has been portrayed through a white-centric lens, leading to harmful stereotypes. Black Autistic individuals often mask their traits due to fears of racial profiling or being perceived as aggressive, increasing emotional and safety risks.

3. Building Inclusive Support – Educators, healthcare providers, and allies must adopt culturally responsive practices to create safe, accessible spaces for all neurodivergent individuals.


Neurodivergence does not exist in isolation from culture, race, and identity. Yet, the mainstream narrative around Autism, ADHD, and other forms of neurodivergence has been largely shaped by a white-centric lens, leading to widespread misconceptions, misdiagnoses, and a lack of culturally responsive support.

In my talk, I will explore the intersection of neurodivergence and cultural identity, highlighting the unique experiences of Black and culturally diverse Autistic individuals. Drawing from both personal and professional experience, I will shed light on the systemic barriers preventing people of colour from receiving timely and accurate diagnoses. These barriers include racial bias in healthcare, cultural stigma, and the lack of representation in media and research.

I will challenge the rigid stereotypes of Autism and ADHD, which often fail to account for the ways neurodivergence presents across different racial and cultural groups. Many Black and culturally diverse individuals mask their neurodivergence for survival, fearing they will be perceived as aggressive, uncooperative, or defiant—particularly in schools, workplaces, and interactions with law enforcement. The heightened risks faced by Black Autistic individuals, including racial profiling and safety concerns during meltdowns, make it even more critical to reshape how society understands and supports neurodivergent individuals of colour.

The session will offer practical, actionable strategies for healthcare providers, educators, and allies to create more inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming spaces that account for cultural differences. Through lived experience and advocacy, I will empower attendees to challenge biases, amplify marginalised voices, and work toward equity in neurodivergent spaces.

This talk is a call to action for professionals, parents, and community members to actively dismantle barriers and foster a world where all neurodivergent individuals—regardless of race or background—can access support, thrive, and feel seen.