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Event 7: Neurodivergence & LGBTQIA+: A Conversation on Identity, Intersectionality & Empowerment

90 minutes

Tuesday 18 March 2025

11:30 - 13:00 (GMT)



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About the event

Join Aidy Smith, the world’s only global TV presenter with Tourette Syndrome along with a fantastic panel as they delve into an open, insightful, and empowering discussion exploring the deep connections between the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. Research suggests a higher prevalence of neurodivergence among LGBTQIA+ individuals—why might this be? Is it self-awareness, or is there a deeper correlation?


We'll unpack the meaning of intersectionality, the challenges and triumphs of coming out as both ND and LGBTQIA+, and how parents can create safe, affirming spaces for their children. With shifting political landscapes, how can we protect, connect, and uplift one another? Most importantly, we'll celebrate how being both ND and LGBTQIA+ has empowered us to break boundaries, redefine success, and thrive in ways many never imagined possible.


Expect a candid, thought-provoking conversation that amplifies voices, shares lived experiences, and offers practical advice for both individuals and allies alike.


This is a free online event via Zoom.

Aidy Smith | Event Chair

TV Presenter, Journalist & Broadcaster

Aidy Smith is an award-winning TV Presenter, broadcaster, and journalist. His is the only active TV Presenter in the UK with Tourette Syndrome. As the executive producer and presenter of The Three Drinkers on Amazon Prime, Aidy built his own TV series via branded content having been told he would never achieve his goal of being on screen due to his condition. As a proud part of the neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities Aidy now inspires others to overcome their hurdles. He works closely with the ADHD Foundation as a Patron and the Tourette Association of America as a Global Ambassador.

Charlie Hart (she/they)

Keynote Speaker, Director of Ausome Charlie Ltd

Charlie Hart, also known as ‘Ausome Charlie’, is a professional speaker with a 20-year background in HR Analytics. Charlie is multiple-neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, Complex PTSD). She speaks about neurodiversity acceptance and inclusion, and intersecting identities, specialising in the ‘double rainbow’ intersection: LGBTQIA+ and Autistic.

Combining neurodivergent lived experience with HR expertise and inclusion best practice, Charlie delivers engaging, impactful talks infused with humour and authentic autistic quirkiness. Not just another happy flappy neurodiversity evangelist, Charlie speaks of dark clouds and silver linings, of strengths and challenges, with pragmatic takeaways that smash the anti-woke backlash.

Kathleen Helm (they/them)

Trainer, Speaker, Coach and Founder of Think Kinetic

Kathleen Helm is a trainer, speaker, coach and founder of Think Kinetic - a social enterprise dedicated to raising awareness and promoting inclusivity for Neurodivergent, Disabled, LGBTQIA+, and lower socio-economic communities.

As a late-diagnosed Autistic ADHD-er, multi-disabled, working class and queer entrepreneur they combine the wisdom of lived experience and intellectual curiosity with fearless authenticity grounded in community.
They have featured on Sky News discussing late diagnosis of ADHD and medication and are politically active, particularly in their role as an ADHD UK Ambassador.

Piers Wilkinson (they/them)

Accessibility, Inclusion and Policy Lead

Piers Wilkinson is an accessibility and inclusion expert, serving as D&A’s Accessibility, Inclusion, and Policy Lead. Formerly the NUS Disabled Students’ Officer, they have championed disabled student representation for over six years, including as a Student Voice Commissioner on the Disabled Students’ Commission. With a background in Physical Oceanography and access consultancy, Piers has contributed to key projects such as the UNCRPD inquiry and Student Minds’ Mental Health Charter. Their work explores the intersection of LGBTQIA+ and disabled identities in education, employment, and policy, with speaking engagements at the Institute of Government & Public Policy and Employment Autism Conference.

Catherine Millan (she/her)

Visionary Leader in Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Catherine Millan is a passionate advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), transforming education and business with her bold approach. As Founder of Be What You See Consultancy Ltd, she challenges discrimination and empowers individuals to champion inclusion. With a global impact, she has led groundbreaking discrimination prevention programs and amplified marginalized voices. Her award-winning initiatives dismantle barriers, foster inclusion, and revolutionize curricula with diverse children’s books.

Catherine also delivers industry-leading EDI training, driving systemic change. A visionary leader, speaker, and educator, she inspires individuals and organizations to take meaningful action toward a more just and inclusive world. Her relentless mission is to create spaces where everyone belongs and thrives.

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