Understanding autism and neurodiversity

BRYCE Pace was diagnosed with autism at eight years old, before many of the current support systems existed, and is now an autism advocate.

Mr Pace will host three 90-minute workshops at Bendigo Library on 14 August.

“These workshops focus on understanding the fundamental elements of autism and neurodiversity, as well as more in-depth topics such as how to make spaces accessible for the 1 in 40 Australians on the autism spectrum,” said Mr Pace.

“Each session is tailored to assist in making specific spaces more accessible, covering areas like tourism, employment, and the wider community.

“What makes these workshops unique is that they are uniquely tailored to what participants would like to gain, whether it’s a better understanding of autism and neurodiversity or simply the opportunity to ask questions in a safe environment from someone with lived experience.”

Mr Pace draws on his own experience in facilitating the workshops.

“I grew up in regional Victoria before many of the current support systems existed,” he said.

“This is why I am so passionate about giving back to regional communities by providing them with the resources and tools needed to accommodate autistic individuals.

“I’ve found that the three areas these workshops focus on – Tourism, Employment, and the wider community – have the most to gain from making their spaces more accessible for the autism community.

“For instance, autistic Australians have an unemployment rate six times higher than the general population and three times higher than any other disability, primarily because employers are unsure how to accommodate our access needs.

“By attending these workshops, I hope participants will gain valuable insight into what it’s like to navigate the world as a neurodivergent individual and walk away with the tools they need to better accommodate our needs.”

The tourism workshop runs from 10.30am to 12pm, the employment workshop from 1pm to 2.30pm and Understanding Autism in the Community from 3.30pm to 5pm.

Each workshop costs $70 plus booking fees.

Visit brycepaceautismadvocate.com/understanding-autism-bendigo.