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Empowering Neurodivergence: Harnessing Strengths for Success - with Nicholas Bennett

Date

Monday March 24, 2025
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Location

Virtual or DMH Mezzanine Classroom
Event Category
CCESC Events
Events

Introduction to the Series

​​This six-part, neurodivergent-led hybrid speaker series coordinated by Dr. Heather Brown from the AIDAN autism research lab at the University of Alberta, with Dr. Nikki Scheerer (Laurier), Dr. Michelle Searle (Queen’s) and Tara Connolly (Carleton) that aims to celebrate neurodiversity and challenge stereotypes by featuring successful neurodivergent (ND) role models who will share their personal and professional experiences. With funding from the Kule Institute for Advanced Study (KIAS) and institutional grants, this cross-disciplinary team reaches a wide audience, bridging gaps in perspectives on neurodiversity and fostering more nuanced and impactful research collaborations. We invite ND and neurotypical (NT) people to witness, celebrate, and learn from the success of others to normalize neurodiversity, reduce stigma, and combat discrimination. 

Our Speaker

Nicholas Bennett is a decorated Canadian Paralympic swimmer who made history at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Bennett claimed gold in the men’s 100-meter breaststroke, marking Team Canada’s first gold medal of the Games. As an autistic athlete, Bennett is an inspiring figure, demonstrating excellence in swimming while breaking barriers and highlighting the capabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities on the world stage. He is coached by his sister, Haley Osborne.

This neurodivergent-led speaker series 2024-2025 is designed to challenge stereotypes by featuring successful neurodivergent (ND) role models who will share their personal and professional experiences. Aims of the Speaker Series:

Register

1. Education

  • Reframe our understanding of neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs) through the lens of neurodiversity.

  • Build empathy for the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals.

  • Highlight the importance of creating ND-friendly spaces, focusing on psychological safety and sensory safety.

2. Community Building

  • Promote and foster a sense of community among in-person attendees.

  • We hope your participation will lead to expanded networks, including new friendships, connections, or opportunities for those attending in person.