Beyond the Brain: How Neurodiversity Shapes the Whole Body
Monday, August 11, 2025 |
4:10 PM - 4:40 PM |
Prince Room |
Overview
Kartini Clarke, CEO, Young Neurodiversity Champions
Speaker
Kartini Clarke
CEO
Young Neurodiversity Champions
Beyond the Brain: How Neurodiversity Shapes the Whole Body
Presentation Overview
Neurodivergent individuals are disproportionately affected by a range of chronic medical conditions, including but not limited to chronic pain syndromes, gastrointestinal disorders, and epilepsy. These co-occurring conditions not only reflect complex neurological and biological underpinnings but also intersect significantly with mental health outcomes. This presentation will explore the emerging research on the biological mechanisms that may contribute to these comorbidities, as well as the lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals managing both physical and psychological challenges. Emphasizing the interplay between body and brain, we argue for a holistic, integrative model of careāone that moves beyond narrow diagnostic categories to address the full spectrum of neurodivergent health.
Biography
Kartini Clarke is the CEO of the Young Neurodiversity Champions and a law student at the University of Auckland. Now in her penultimate year, she is passionate about the intersection of neurodiversity, the criminal justice system, and disabled workers' rights. Kartini began her advocacy journey after being diagnosed with ADHD just before her second year of university. Since then, she has worked to amplify the voices of neurodivergent youth, champion inclusive policies, and raise awareness through public speaking, research, and leadership.
