Supported Learning students from Southwark College showcased their talents at the Neurodiversity Exhibition at St John's Church in Waterloo. Through their various projects, they demonstrated their skills and creativity, encouraging visitors to learn more about neurodiversity.
As part of the exhibition, the students highlighted their determination to achieve their goals and build on their strengths. This is a testament that being neurodivergent is not a hindrance to achieving goals, as evidenced by the various Neurodivergent famous people showcased, including Simone Biles, Bill Gates, and Billie Eilish.
Participating in the exhibition encouraged the students to go beyond their comfort zone. It helped them to build their communication skills and self-confidence, enabling them to go beyond their comfort zones. Some of the projects included interactive sessions such as the 'Neurodiversity in Women' aimed to raise awareness about autism and included a creative Q&A session that encouraged visitors to place their answers in a Yes or No box using a small bean bag, sparking thoughtful discussions.
The students also collaborated to create and exhibit pieces, including drawings depicting people with different forms of disabilities, promoting inclusivity and understanding; colourful fidget toys with instructions to create your own, empowering others to contribute to the cause; and a showcase of famous neurodivergent people, including Simone Biles, Bill Gates, and Billie Eilish, to convey that being neurodivergent doesn't stop anyone from achieving their ambitions.
Jamila Sesay, a Towards Independence Programme student, said: "The event was a testament to personal growth. It enabled me to hone my communication and interpersonal skills. I was able to speak and socialise with attendees without feeling nervous."
The exhibition was insightful, as visitors asked questions and listened attentively to the students' explanations about neurodiversity and their projects. It served as a platform to inform, raise awareness, and celebrate diversity, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences and helping change the narrative around neurodiversity.
To learn more about our Supported Learning courses, visit southwark.ac.uk/supported-learning.
