Neurodiversity at Work feat. Beth Stephenson

Written by Cameron Reid (This article was originally featured on our blog)

Meet Beth Stephenson, a 28-year-old Administration Assistant at Modern B2B, who shares her journey as a disabled woman with autism.

Here, Beth offers insights into the challenges and growth that come with neurodiversity, the accommodations that have empowered her in her role, and advice on how others can expand their understanding of neurodiversity. 

Please introduce yourself and your role. I’m Beth, a 28-year-old disabled woman with autism, working as an Administration Assistant at Modern B2B. We help tech and fintech companies enhance their marketing strategies through digital solutions, ABM, and martech. My role is highly varied, and I love that diversity.

What 3 things do you wish you knew sooner about your neurodiversity?

1. Being told about your neurodiversity might be challenging at first, but it helps you grow as a person. (I was diagnosed at 3, but not informed until 11, and by a third party.)
2. It takes time and effort to break into the industry you want to enter. I’m incredibly grateful to Babbasa for helping me achieve this.
3. My neurodiversity is unique, even compared to others with the same condition, and that makes me feel special.

What accommodations have you/your employer made to help you do your role? Modern is a hybrid working, female-founded company with a strong commitment to accommodating everyone. This means I can work flexibly, take breaks as needed, and choose between working from home or the office. The CEO and my line manager are incredibly supportive.

How would you recommend people expand their knowledge around neurodiversity? There’s a wealth of information online, which can feel overwhelming. I recommend learning about neurodiversity directly from those who live with it. People with lived experience can provide a clearer and more nuanced perspective on what it means to be neurodiverse.

Join the Conversation

If you are a Neurodiverse professional, thought leader, or advocate, and are interested in contributing to this series, we would love to hear from you. Your insights and experiences are invaluable and can help foster a more inclusive and understanding workplace environment.

Message Cam directly via LinkedIn or reach him through email at cameron@adlib-recruitment.co.uk to express your interest.

Alternatively, you can submit your answers via this form to be featured in this series.