Neurodiversity and Dyslexia
Introduction to the 2nd Africa Dyslexia Dialogue
“It’s time we all understand dyslexia properly as a different way of thinking, not a disadvantage”. – Sir Richard Branson
Event Overview
The 2nd Africa Dyslexia Dialogue, themed Neurodiversity and Dyslexia: Valuing Difference at School and Work, was held virtually on the 4th of November 2022 in sponsored by Piggyvest.
This event, lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes, brought together educators, policymakers, businesses, professionals, families, and individuals to discuss the impact of neurodiversity, with a special focus on dyslexia, in educational settings and the workplace.
The dialogue explored innovative approaches to understanding and celebrating cognitive differences as strengths rather than deficits. With the increasing demand for complex problem-solving, creativity, emotional intelligence, and innovation in today’s world, embracing neurodiversity becomes crucial in both schools and the workplace.
Objectives of the Dialogue:
- Raise Awareness of Neurodiversity: Educating stakeholders on the significance of neurodiversity and why it’s important for schools and workplaces.
- Promote a Strengths-Based Perspective: Encouraging stakeholders to adopt a strengths-based approach when addressing differences in cognitive abilities.
- Explore Future Avenues: Discussing how neurodiversity, particularly dyslexia, can shape the future of education and work.
- Facilitate Stakeholder Engagement: Offering a platform for participants to share challenges, successes, and insights on building supportive environments for dyslexics.
- Introduction to Dyslexia Nigeria: Introducing participants to the work and services provided by Dyslexia Nigeria.
Opening Remarks
Dr Adrienne Tikolo
Founder and Managing Director, Dyslexia Nigeria
Keynote Address
Dr. Sally Shaywitz
Co-Founder/C0-Director of the Yale Center for Dyslexia, who spoke on the science of dyslexia and the important of early intervention and support.
Panel Discussions
1st Panel: Deficit to Remediation - Enabling Rather than Disabling Students with Dyslexia in Schools
Mrs. Patricia Olise
SENCO, Grange School
Frank Cowling
MD, Toe by Toe
Dr Ijeoma Abdulbasim
CEO, Brainfeed Research and Support Foundation
Mrs Joy Thomas
MD, Dyslexia Ghana
Phyllis Munyi
MD, Dyslexia Kenya
This panel focused on reshaping how dyslexia is viewed in schools and advocating for remediation strategies that empower rather than disable students.
2nd Panel: Valuing Difference - Identifying and Supporting Dyslexics in the Workplace
Natalie Brooks
Founder, Dyslexia in Adults
Wana Udobang
Writer, Poet, Journalist, Filmmaker, and Television Personality
Tomi Otudeko
Head, Innovation and Sustainability, Honeywell Group
Oluranti Oyesiji
Founder, Closerlook Caregiver Foundation
This session explored how workplaces can identify and harness the strengths of individuals with dyslexia, with a focus on creating inclusive environments where neurodivergent employees can thrive.
Watch the Full Dialogue on YouTube
Conclusion
The 2nd Africa Dyslexia Dialogue provided a comprehensive platform for discussing the importance of neurodiversity in shaping the future of education and the workplace. It also emphasized the need to move from a deficit-based approach to a strengths-based view, encouraging the celebration of cognitive differences. Participants were equipped with knowledge and practical strategies for supporting dyslexics in both schools and professional environments.
Watch the full dialogue on YouTube by clicking on the button below
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