A Step Towards Inclusivity: TEDxMelbourne's Unpacking Genius Event

As part of our mission to create more accessible spaces, TEDxMelbourne successfully produced an event aimed at being more inclusive for the diverse community we represent. Last Sunday, at our 'Unpacking Genius' event, we collaborated with a 16-year-old neurodivergent student. Here's his story.

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Hello, my name is Andrew. I'm autistic, have ADHD, and I'm a high school student in year 10. Recently, I attended the TEDx 'Unpacking Genius' event in Melbourne on August 25, 2024.

Explaining my disabilities to people can be challenging because it's difficult to convey how I perceive the world to those who don't share the same experiences. Excessive stimuli can make me feel overwhelmed, sometimes hindering me from doing the things I want to do.

Accommodations are adjustments that level the playing field, allowing everyone to participate equally. They are crucial because they provide everyone with a fair shot at what they want to do. Everyone in society deserves to participate, and accommodations enable people with disabilities, like me, to do so. For instance, a common accommodation at school is allowing someone to have more time during an exam or providing a scribe to assist with writing.

Last Sunday, I attended the TedX 'Unpacking Genius' event in Melbourne. When I purchased the tickets, I was asked if I had any disabilities. I said yes. I would have attended the event regardless, but knowing they had accommodations made me feel more comfortable and excited to attend.

Upon my arrival at the event, the staff guided me and showed me the accommodations they offered. These included access to a quiet, private room if needed, and a reduction in the intensity of flashing lights to minimize sensory overload during the event. Having access to the private room was beneficial as it allowed me to self-regulate when things became overwhelming. Even though the room was merely a converted gift shop, it was invaluable to have that space when I needed it.

I commend TedX for their thoughtfulness in considering people with disabilities. I strongly encourage other organizations to include similar accommodations, enabling people like me with disabilities to participate. Thank you.