Creating spaces where great people can do great things

Witnessing the impact of systemic inequalities and discrimination throughout my career and personal life has fueled my commitment to being a positive change-maker. I feel driven by the vision of a world where everyone, regardless of their background or biology, feels valued and has equal opportunities to thrive. I am inspired by the potential for transformation that comes with fostering diverse perspectives, cultivating inclusivity, and educating others about equity. By actively promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, I hope to be a catalyst for positive change in both individual lives and larger societal structures.

While DEI initiatives focusing on gender, race and age have been at the forefront of companies’ efforts for years, the creation of a truly inclusive environment for neurodiverse employees is just in the beginning stages. A best practice that companies can begin with is implementing accommodations to support neurodivergent employees’ success. These accommodations may involve providing flexibility in work hours or locations, offering assistive technologies, or creating sensory-friendly spaces. Companies should proactively engage in open conversations with neurodivergent employees to understand their specific needs and tailor accommodations on a need-by-need basis.

Where I have seen Storyteller Overland thrive in these efforts is having a best practice that shifts away from traditional notions of work and productivity–recognizing that neurodiverse individuals may not conform to conventional working styles. It is important for companies to value diverse ways of contributing. Just because someone does not work like a traditional worker has in the past does not make them invaluable. 

When a community, whether that be a small workplace to metro Birmingham overall, actively cultivates diversity, it brings together a range of perspectives, skills, and talents. This diversity becomes a driving force for creativity and innovation, fostering an environment where new ideas can flourish. Inclusive communities attract a diverse workforce, which can be a magnet for businesses looking to tap into a pool of varied skills and experiences. 

Embracing diversity and inclusion can lead to a powerful social cohesion within a community. When individuals from different backgrounds feel included and valued, it creates a sense of belonging that extends beyond the workplace and spills over into the local community. This sense of unity contributes to a more stable and harmonious community vibe, fostering a positive environment for residents and businesses alike.

Inclusive strategies can lead to significant outcomes, which includes boosting a company’s financial status. Building teams without different perspectives and the same skills represented, a company’s problem-solving potential diminishes. There is greater potential for success when you bring together diverse people with qualities that complement rather than mirror others. When a company includes and celebrates individuality in the workplace, it benefits the bottom line through easier recruitment, meaningful employee engagement and higher retention rates.

Of course! Ultimately, if the motivation for DEI stems from a deep-seated belief that embracing diversity is not only the right thing to do but also the key to unlocking a more just and prosperous future for everyone, significant change would be inevitable.

Many businesses (like Wal-Mart and AMC Theaters) within Birmingham have implemented accommodations for the neurodivergent to reach a population who would not necessarily come in due to being sensory-sensitive. Birmingham attractions (like the Birmingham Zoo and the McWane Science Center) have both been certified by KultureCity as being a sensory-inclusive facility. KultureCity is an amazing resource for both businesses and individuals to find venues, organizations, and businesses who are inclusive in regards to neurodiversity. Their educational programs are for anyone who wants to learn more about sensory needs and how to better engage with individuals with sensory needs.

Wonderful, joyful celebrations of diversity like The Exceptional Foundation, Studio by the Tracks, the Magic City Acceptance Academy, and businesses like Storyteller Overland show me that Birmingham is not as far behind the curve of DEI initiatives as it has felt in the past.

Even though there are many more improvements that need to be made to make our city an inclusive environment for people living with physical disabilities, city planners and urban designers could improve how they design, not just buildings and inside spaces, but cities, streets and public gathering points broader for the non-visible disability and neurodiverse population.

By fostering an inclusive environment, Birmingham will continue to build its reputation as a welcoming and progressive place. This positive image can attract investments, tourism, and a skilled workforce, contributing to the overall economic development of the city. Recognizing diversity as not a necessity, but a reason to celebrate will move this city in the right direction.