For years, I’ve been surrounded by people who see the world differently — classmates, friends, family members, and children I’ve met through volunteering and community programs. I began to notice something missing: many youth initiatives welcomed neurodiverse participants, but few truly empowered them. Activities were often created for them, not with them.
That realization led me to write “Empowering Neurodiverse Youth: Inclusive Youth-Led Programs.” The goal wasn’t to write a policy paper — it was to explore how inclusion can begin with youth themselves, through creativity, leadership, and collaboration.
The paper isn’t meant to stay on a shelf. It’s something we’re already bringing to life through Acrozzi and our Art Workshop partnership with NorthStar Special Needs Society, where art becomes a shared language for understanding and connection.
To me, true inclusion means listening deeply, creating together, and making space for every voice. When everyone contributes, the result is always richer — and more human.
— Sarah
👉 Read the full paper here