Great Minds Think Differently

Description:

What if “common sense” was never actually common at all? The way we think, perceive, and experience the world is as individual as we are. Yet all too often, organizations cling to a single interpretation of how people should think and work, leaving neurodivergent minds masking their true strengths while their teams miss out on this untapped potential. What if the real driver of success isn’t in fitting in, but in amplifying what makes us different?

Hosted by workplace inclusion specialist Kristin Light, this lively and eye-opening session truly demystifies neurodiversity, exploring both the real challenges and unique strengths of neurodivergent professionals. Blending cutting-edge research, real-world insights, and a much-needed dose of levity to this timely topic, we’ll uncover how embracing these natural variances can transform workplace engagement and even reshape how we see ourselves.

Your team will walk away with practical strategies to create a more inclusive workplace where minds of all kinds can truly shine. Whether you’re a leader, a teammate, or simply curious about this trending buzzword, this session is your gateway to making neuroinclusion your team’s secret weapon!

Learning Outcomes

1. Crack the Code of Neurodiversity: Conceptual understanding of neurodivergent challenges, uncovering how different brains tick and why embracing these natural variances can transform your work environment
2. Enhance Communication & Collaboration: Practical strategies to improve workplace interactions, accommodate different cognitive styles, and foster inclusive teamwork.
3. A Clear Path Forward: Tangible takeaways that can be implemented immediately following the workshop, most with zero cost involved

Session Content

1. Relatable introductions to the concepts of neurodiversity and neurodivergence
2. Exploring the vast array of traits and conditions generally considered neurodivergent
3. Reconceptualizing “ability” by replacing the linear spectrum of aggregated aptitude with bespoke dials of individual strengths
4. Is neurodivergence a disability? Balancing the legal obligations of workplace accommodation with a collective style of universal design
5. Reducing influence of the common ‘pathology paradigm’ while embracing a neuroaffirmative approach
6. Deficit or difference? Superpower or weakness? Exploring language and longstanding myths surrounding the neurodivergent population
7. Building an inclusive organization that empowers all employees to thrive!

Bio of the Facilitator:

Kristin Light

Specialist in Effective Workplace Mental Health & Neuroinclusion Strategy

Kristin Light brings her dynamic expertise as a senior engagement and accessibility strategist, tenacious advocate, and captivating storyteller to every stage she graces.

Multiply neurodivergent with a flair for turning real-life challenges into tangible insights, Kristin weaves cutting-edge research with candid stories, sharp strategy, and conscientious guidance — making complex ideas refreshingly relatable and driving meaningful change worth raving about.

A vibrant and unique corporate experience facilitator, Kristin taps into both her performance background and the nostalgic LEGO™ Serious Play methodology to create innovative and immersive experiences that have been met with stellar reviews from participants and executives alike.

Recently, Kristin channeled both her professional and lived experience to manage a federal grant (received through the Canadian Association for Supported Employment's Innovation Lab program) to build neuroinclusive suicide prevention strategies for Canada’s rail construction sector.

Kristin is a proud Board Member with DiverseMinds, an organization dedicated to supporting neurodivergent women and girls; certified in ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills); a trained Mental Health First Aider; and a graduate of the University of New Brunswick's Psychologically Safe Leadership program. Her work has been featured in both news media and industry blogs, and she has co-authored two highly acclaimed books on mental health and neurodiversity.

With her signature blend of theatrical humour, nostalgic charm, and executive-level insight, Kristin delivers engaging, impactful sessions that will resonate long after the workshop ends.