auticon US’ Post

We're thrilled to have Eric Olafson as an ATI advisor. Eric has a long history of supporting auticon as an investor and member of its global board, and brings to ATI his passion for technology, innovation, and solutions that support the autistic community. “ATI fills a critical gap in the neurodiverse employment landscape by providing autistic individuals with the skills and experience they need to start meaningful careers," Eric said. "I’ve spoken with so many families who struggle to find opportunities for their talented children, and this initiative gives them the chance to demonstrate their capabilities. This is just the beginning, and I believe ATI has the potential to scale and create lasting change in the industry.” Eric had a long career as a founder/CEO in the retail and commerce technology space with a company that ultimately became part of Salesforce in 2016. Eric “retired” from the tech world in early 2018 with an intentional focus on solutions for the autism and neurodiverse community in the areas of housing and care, employment, and technology and innovation. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Eric and his wife Jaye support multiple organizations that serve this community locally and globally. In addition to being an investor and member of the global board of auticon GmbH, Eric is a founding director of Multiple, a nonprofit early-stage accelerator for neuro-world technology and innovation. We thank Eric for his incredible support and vision, and look forward to working together to create more opportunities for autistic adults in tech! #AutismAtWork #AutismInvestment #SocialImpact #TechTraining

⚡ Opportunity. Support. Determination. With these three things, anyone can do anything. These were the words of Strictly Come Dancing winner Chris McCausland Saturday night. And he meant anyone. For me, they particularly resonate with the disabled community, for whom Chris has become an incredible role model. Chris, who is blind, spent three months learning to dance without sight, a testament to his determination. But his success wouldn’t have been possible without his professional partner, Dianne Buswell, who adapted her teaching to make dance accessible. By using touch-based learning, Dianne showed what can be possible will equitable support. Sharing Strictly with my kids on alternate weekends injects my week with joy. Seeing the public vote for Chris gave me hope for more inclusive society. I’ve seen this same determination in the disabled and neurodivergent entrepreneurs I’ve had the honour of mentoring through Hatch Enterprise UK first launchpad, sponsored by Ares Management Corporation. Many of them have multiple external barriers at work and in life, yet remain driven to build solutions for underserved communities. 👉 What’s often missing is not determination, but opportunity and support. Chris’s journey shows what’s possible when those two pieces are in place. It’s why programs like Hatch’s are vital, providing launchpads for untapped potential (and a big hats off to programme manager Tiany V. for creating something so inclusive). If you’re a disabled or neurodivergent entrepreneur, Hatch Enterprise UK will be running this program again - stay tuned. My invitation to the BBC - can we please have an Autistic ADHD woman in the next series? So everyone can deepen their understanding for that misunderstood experience too 🤍 _________ For more: ♻️ Repost if you want to be part of the change. Follow me, Jess Rad, and The WomenHood Ltd to understand how to embrace and celebrate neurodiversity, with an intersectional lens. _________ What does “opportunity, support, determination” mean to you? I’d love to hear your thoughts. #neurodiversity #inclusion #accessibility #hr #talentretention #dei

MILLION DOLLAR DREAMS just launched! 🚀 Yesterday, I unveiled my biggest project yet—a multi-state workforce development initiative for 14-24-year-olds. AKA, we’re training the youngins to secure the bag! 💼💰 The launch was a HUGE success. As the keynote speaker at the Indiana Youth Institute’s Kids Connect Conference, I introduced this life-changing opportunity to 1,000 youth workers across Indiana. The response? Overwhelming. Together, we’re unlocking and funding dreams across the state! Next stop: TEXAS. Partnering with the Spurs to #BeTheChange and manifest MILLION DOLLAR DREAMS. 🚀 Stay tuned. We’re just getting started. 💎 #MillionDollarDreams #YouthEmpowerment #GameChanger

Strengthening Warwickshire, Then the Rest of the Counties Our first mission focuses on supporting neurodiversity in Warwickshire, a cause that promises to deliver significant economic and societal benefits. With over 200,000 #neurodiverse individuals in the county, our initiatives aim to empower this community, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive. By positively impacting just 20% of these individuals, we project a transformative economic uplift of £7 billion over the next decade. This isn't just about helping neurodiverse individuals; it's about boosting the local economy, strengthening Warwickshire, and creating a ripple effect of prosperity throughout the region. The Social Impact Academy is committed to reducing unemployment among neurodiverse individuals, a strategy that promises to yield substantial economic and societal returns. Integrating our initiatives into Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting allows companies to showcase their commitment to social responsibility while reaping significant financial rewards. This alignment promises not just short-term gains but also long-term sustainable growth and societal benefits, making Warwickshire a beacon of inclusive excellence. By leveraging our deep local ties and a comprehensive approach to social impact, we envision a future where Warwickshire leads the way in embracing and celebrating neurodiversity. Our efforts provide a powerful case for stakeholders and potential investors, underscoring the transformative potential of our mission. As we embark on this noble journey, we invite you to join us in making a lasting difference, not just in Warwickshire but across the UK, one community at a time. https://lnkd.in/dtvmJgN9 #Neurodiversity #Jobs #Careers

What a privilege to be asked to take part in my first ever (hopefully of many) panel discussion today. We talked about all things "actionable allyship" as part of a calendar of events marking #NationalInclusionWeek . Having a seat at the table as an Autistic Woman is a responsibility I take very seriously. Educating others and engaging in discussion is a key part of leading a network and it is wonderful working somewhere that allows me the time and space I need to do this. Thank you to my fellow panellists Sonia Sood , Carina Buckley , Catherine , and Ryan for some great talking points to bounce off of and for the work you do in your respective communities. As well as to the wonderful OD team and Jim Irving for making participating in this event as accessible as possible for me. And if you've made it this far (well done and thank you ) some key points to take away - - Being an ally is more than just not being a bad person. You need to take it further. - Educate yourself on experiences outside your own. Be mindful of the media you consume. If every author whose books you read or content creator whose account you follow looks like you, you're missing out on a wealth of material and probably not being the best ally you can be. - Whilst respectfully asked questions and discussions are great the onus of education does not fall on marginalized people , with technology where it is it's never been easier to educate yourself. - Marginalized people do not need saving, there's more than enough people with saviour complexes out here. Not every marginalized person will need you to show up as an ally in the same way. Talk to the people around you about what they need from you as you act as an ally. - Literally no one is disadvantaged by an inclusive learning environment, so why the heck is this not the norm ???

The 2024 Neurodiversity Index Report is here. Head on over to https://lnkd.in/egjee9GR to read the report. Don't forget to sign up to the launch webinar with our CEO Prof. Amanda Kirby on Friday 15th March, 13:30-14:00 where we’ll unpack some of the key findings and trends from the report. Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/dFrD_vZP #Neurodiversity #Diversity #Inclusivity #NeurodiversityIndex #NeurodiversityWeek

Weekly film series: Thursday video club #AssistiveTechnology 🎥 Every Thursday, we are bringing you new video content to dive deeper into the world of #AssistiveTechnology and its transformative impact on people’s lives. 🌍✨  If you like it, please share it! The third video of the series is the first video ATscale had made and it explains why we were established. Meet Nguyen Trang Thanh, a 5-year-old from #Vietnam, who can now attend school thanks to his #HearingAid. Without #AssistiveTechnology, many people in need of #AssistiveTechnology are excluded from participating in #Education, #Work, and their communities. ATscale was founded in July 2018 to address this growing challenge, fostering collaboration to inspire change, build strategies, and break down barriers together. 📚Learn about ATscale’s role as catalyst of action to reach 500 million of people by 2030 watching this short film: https://lnkd.in/dpktp3nU Join us for Video Club every Thursday for audio visual updates on our programmes in 30+ countries, human interest stories, campaigns and more #UnlockTheEveryday #ThursdayVideoClub UNICEF Motivation International UNOPS World Health Organization International Disability Alliance

It gives me hope! Absolutely inspired by the power of parents on a mission to create a better, more inclusive world for their children. Across the UK, neurodivergent powerhouses are leading change, using lived experiences and deep-rooted passion to drive innovation for neuroinclusive spaces and practices. For many of us, it’s about more than just advocating for our child’s needs—it’s about reshaping systems, challenging norms, and building environments where all neurodivergent individuals can thrive. As parents we aren’t waiting for change; we’re creating it. From rethinking educational spaces to pioneering sensory-friendly event environments and workplaces, the impact being made is undeniable. The passion is contagious, sparking a movement that encourages greater awareness, accessibility, and acceptance. It’s amazing to witness the rise of neuroinclusive design, support networks, and advocacy, all driven by the heart and soul of parents who want a world that fully embraces our kids. Thank you to everyone in our incredible community of changemakers. Your work is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Here are just a few I’d like to mention and shout-out: Dan Harris FRSA Stephen Nurse Tiffany Casson Peter Shippey MBE Kate Shippey MBE Alex Kegie Who would you add to the list? #Neurodiversity #Inclusion #Innovation #Parenting #Neuroinclusive

We are blown away that in just 24 hours, The Big Ableism Survey has had over 100 responses. That's 100+ people who have taken the time to share their insights, experiences, and who are helping accelerate change. The findings of this survey will support training, research, lobbying, education, policy reform, and tackling systemic ableism. If you're a Disabled Person/person with a Disability (insert preferred self-ID), please consider taking a few moments to complete the first annual Big Ableism survey. Responses are completely anonymous. If you are a non-disabled person and want to support, please help us by sharing this survey with your networks. Help us accelerate Unlearning. Help us accelerate Change. Help us, to help others unlearn ableism. The Big Ableism Survey https://lnkd.in/emRfKxEv P.S.: If you can, please take a moment to share, comment, tag, or forward to your network; we would really appreciate it. Accessibility: 1. Text on the video screen is spoken word. 2. Link for Audio description video in comments. 3. If you would like to complete the survey but encounter any barriers please contact us at: info@unlearningableism.com #ThursdayThoughts #DisabilityInclusion #DiversityAndInclusion #Survey #Ableism

You opinion matters and is wanted Especially on the subject of Ableism It’s ok if you don’t understand it, know it or are able to talk about it for hours on end The below survey needs as many of you lovely people to complete it And if you thing “Oh that’s not for me as it doesn’t affect me” then you definitely need to do it! Thanks in advance Suzie x