“If we don’t take breaks, we burn out. Accept help where you can.”

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob speaks with Folashade Dan-Oketola, a parent, caregiver, and advocate for the neurodivergent and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) community. Folashade shares her journey of parenting an autistic child, highlighting the importance of understanding neurodiversity and embracing flexibility in daily life.

Through her lived experience and advocacy, Folashade discusses the challenges and triumphs of raising a neurodivergent child. She offers practical insights on self-care, finding community support, and focusing on strengths rather than limitations. The conversation also explores her path to further education in Finland and how it has shaped her advocacy work.

Key Takeaways:

• Flexibility matters: Adapting to your child’s needs can make daily life smoother.

• Self-care is essential: Caregivers need to recharge to support their children effectively.

• Community support is life-changing: Finding your tribe helps reduce isolation.

• Acceptance is powerful: Embracing neurodiversity fosters confidence and well-being.

Trigger warning: This episode discusses caregiver burnout and the challenges of navigating stigma.

About Folashade:

Folashade Dan-Oketola is a licensed Early Childhood Caregiver and an advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Currently studying Social Services - Child Protection Services, she is passionate about educating the African community on neurodiversity through knowledge and lived experience.

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"As an autistic individual, as somebody that's neurodiverse, the ability to organise information and filter out what's important, all those kinds of things, they don't come naturally to us.”

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with Kareena Kai, an autistic adult and the founder of Busy Bees Inc Club CIC. Kareena shares her personal journey of navigating the challenges and stigmas associated with being neurodivergent, from self-identification and masking to the struggle of communicating in conventional ways.

Together, they explore the transformative power of accepting neurodiversity, the significance of self-advocacy, and the role of supportive communities in helping neurodivergent individuals thrive. Kareena also discusses the importance of resources, awareness, and individualised approaches in managing daily challenges.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding and embracing neurodiversity can be life-changing.
• Self-advocacy is crucial for navigating challenges and accessing the right support.
• Diagnosis and awareness can foster personal growth and self-acceptance.
• Medication and strategies play different roles in managing symptoms - it’s about what works for the individual.

"We all process the world differently and having the right support makes all the difference."

About Kareena:
Kareena Kai is an autistic adult and the founder of Busy Bees Inc Club CIC, an initiative dedicated to creating inclusive spaces for neurodivergent individuals. She is passionate about raising awareness, challenging stigmas, and advocating for the importance of understanding different communication styles. Through her work, she empowers others to embrace their identities and access the support they need.

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"The diagnosis is not a label, it's a key. It's a key to understanding."

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with psychotherapist and coach Jen Slaton, who has extensive experience working with the neurodivergent community. Jen shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting the impact of late diagnosis on mental health and the importance of a holistic approach to understanding autism.

Together, they explore the nuances of diagnosis, the significance of recognising ADHD and autism traits, and the power of self-understanding for better self-acceptance and navigating life. Jen emphasises the need for individualised support and the importance of creating safe spaces where the neurodivergent community feels heard and validated.

Key Takeaways:

· Getting a diagnosis can be life-changing for some people.

· Understanding and coming to terms with a diagnosis is important.

· Support after a diagnosis is crucial.

· Mental health should always be a priority.

"A diagnosis isn’t just a label—it’s a key that unlocks understanding."

About Jen:
Jen Slaton is a psychotherapist and coach specialising in supporting neurodivergent individuals. With years of experience working with the autism and ADHD communities, Jen advocates for holistic, person-centred approaches that focus on strengths rather than deficits. She is passionate about ensuring individuals receive the validation and support they need post-diagnosis.

Learn more about _Achievable Journey

Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and _X.

Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts!

Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community.