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Neurodiversity Forum -
Women, Leadership and Late Autism Diagnosis

Time: 3-4PM (UK Time)

Date: Wednesday 1st July

Location: Zoom  

About

For many autistic women in leadership, a diagnosis often comes later in life—bringing both clarity and complexity. Navigating senior roles while processing identity, past experiences, and workplace dynamics can be both empowering and challenging, particularly within environments not always designed with neurodivergence in mind.
 

Join us for this upcoming Neurodiversity Forum, where we’ll explore the lived experience of late-diagnosed autistic women in senior leadership. This session will examine the intersection of identity, leadership, and workplace culture, with a focus on understanding, navigating, and reshaping professional environments.

We’re delighted to be joined by Gemma Gray, who will share insights from her PhD research exploring the workplace experiences and employment decisions of late-diagnosed autistic women in senior roles. Drawing on lived experience and co-designed research, Gemma will offer a unique and important perspective on themes including masking, stigma, gendered expectations, and the impact of life stages such as peri/menopause.

The session will be chaired by Dr Emma Mahoney, who will guide the conversation to ensure an open, thoughtful, and engaging discussion, creating space for shared experiences and reflection.

What we’ll explore:

  • The experience of receiving an autism diagnosis later in life
  • Navigating leadership roles as a late-diagnosed autistic woman
  • The impact of masking, stigma, and workplace expectations
  • The intersection of gender, ageing, and neurodiversity
  • How workplace environments can enable—or disable—neurodivergent talent
  • Lived experiences, reflections, and shared perspectives

Who should attend?

  • Senior leaders and professionals interested in neurodiversity and inclusion
  • Individuals who identify as neurodivergent or are exploring diagnosis
  • HR professionals, DEI leads, and people managers
  • Anyone interested in creating more inclusive workplace cultures

No prior specialist knowledge is required to attend.

We hope you can join us for this insightful and important conversation!

👉 To join, accept calendar invite and register on Zoom below:

Dr Emma Mahoney
Forum Chair - Dr Emma Mahoney