I wanted to start blogging here to show people the world of events through the eyes of someone with a disability someone who is neurodivergent. Before I go on, if you know me personally please help me protect the privacy of my family and friends by not using their names in comments on my blog. Thank you!

What is neurodivergent? refers to individuals whose brain functions, learns, and processes information differently than what is considered typical or neurotypical.This variation could include diagnosed conditions like autism or ADHD. If you’ve seen the “About” page on the Kindness website, you’ll have read about my diagnosis.

I grew up in the 80s and 90s. Back then, if you had a disability, people often made assumptions about you like you couldn’t pursue the same opportunities as everyone else because of it. It was a time of a lot of stigma and exclusion for anyone who seemed different.

My Dad made sure I could pursue the same opportunities as everyone else.

With the love and support I had, I completed Year 12. I had the choice of just getting my certificate or aiming for a TER score. I took my parents’ advice and went for the certificate. Exams are stressful! Over my school, college, and university life, I have earned my VCE certificate, a diploma, and a bachelor’s degree in events. I am here now doing what I love. It has taken time and hard work.

I am grateful for the love and support that has got me where I am now. There is a lot more support and understanding out there now in schools and universities. I don’t know about the shift in stigma let’s hope that continues to change.

Right now, I am working on a few things. I’m working on my next event The Empowerment Panel, details are on the website. A summary of is a candid, three-part conversation exploring relationships, intimacy, and inclusion in the disability community, challenging stigma, sharing lived experiences, and inspiring a more empowered future.

 It’s hard work, but it pays off. With Dream Tease (photos are up check the site map), that was over six months of planning. Six months went so quickly!

I remember standing at the Band Room hours prior to the event, looking at the stage and reminiscing about the journey, with one of my support workers to get there. The actual night went so fast. It was worth all the work I put into it.

That’s the most exciting thing about planning these events the feelings at the end, experiencing the day unfold, and seeing all the work come to life. There so many stages to the planning.
As I mentioned the Empowerment panel. I am trying to get in contact with possible sponsors at the moment. I found a really amazing venue. The venue can be the most challenging stage. Concerning venues, I always strive to find an accessible venue to hold my events in. With Dream. Tease I was planning to have it at The Gasometer Hotel. Unfortunately, they had to close their doors, so we had to move Dream Tease. When this happened, I remembered attending an event at the Bergy Band room and how accessible that was. I went to chat to the manager along with my support worker. Within 12 hours after finding out about The Gasometer Hotel closing, we had a new venue for Dream Tease booked.

It’s taken time to find the right venue for the Empowerment Panel as well. We have found it finally the Motley Baushaus. Back to event planning.

Every event I plan and every story I share reminds me why this work matters to build community, break down barriers, and celebrate all our unique journeys.