Strength in Difference: Neurodiversity in Women

Brain-Healthy Workplace Consultant, Trainer, and Applied Neuroscientist

Naomi transforms brain science into practical hacks, tools, and strategies that work in the real world. Honoured to be described as a thought leader, she has delivered expert keynotes and workshops for organisations such as Google, the NHS and Westminster Insight.

Specialising in neuroinclusion, women’s workplace health, and brain optimisation, Naomi designs workplaces where brains can thrive. She holds a master’s degree in Applied Neuroscience from the renowned Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Neuroscience at King’s College, London where she is a Guest Lecturer in Brain Health.

Naomi is also a faculty member at the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation (USA), teaching on their latest Brain Longevity Training Course. Through her firm, Neuro-Informed, she and her expert team provide consulting, training and brain health gyms.

Catherine Millan is a leading advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, shaping change across education and business. As Founder and Director of Be What You See Consultancy Ltd, she challenges discrimination, amplifies marginalised voices and drives systemic impact. Catherine has designed award‑winning initiatives that tackle bias, reshape curricula and deliver industry‑leading EDI training. A powerful speaker and educator, she inspires organisations and individuals to move beyond good intentions and take meaningful action towards a more inclusive world.

Kirsty is a teacher of more than 20 years who moved into SEND provision in 2022 with the hope of providing a purposeful and engaging environment for students with neurodiversity and disabilities who can, very often, be let down by mainstream provision. Passionate about diversity, equity and inclusion Kirsty has been a UK delegate to the UN Conference on the Status of Women for the last two years.

In her current role, the focus is developing digital skills in ND interns, removing barriers to work and promoting good mental health. This involves creating partnerships with employers across Manchester who share the values of DISC and are keen to change the employment landscape for students with SEND. As an ND individual herself and raising sons with ND, the work is important personally and professionally.

Gunita Maskalane is a PhD researcher and Human Resource Management tutor at Manchester Metropolitan University, specialising in autism and inclusive recruitment practices through a biopsychosocial lens. Her research is deeply personal, rooted in lived experience and a drive to challenge conventional hiring norms. Gunita represents doctoral students on the University’s Doctoral College Advisory Group and teaches with a hands-on approach. With over 14 years in hospitality and fast food leadership—where she ran one of the UK’s top-performing stores for two years—she brings real-world grit and insight to conversations around neurodiversity, inclusion, and equitable work environments.