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Youth for Neurodiversity
Breaking barriers, celebrating differences, championing strengths, & mobilizing allies!
Our Mission - Empowering Youth
We are a youth-led nonprofit, a vibrant grassroots collective of diverse youth. Our mission: break barriers for neurodivergent and differently abled youth. We amplify personal stories, champion strengths, educate and mobilize neurotypical youth allies, fight cultural and societal stigma, and push for public policy for universal design, inclusive spaces, and assistive technologies in schools, communities, and workplaces.
Neurodiversity is for everyone. Differences are not deficits. Inclusivity isn’t about “accommodations”—it’s about creating true belonging, where youth feel valued and celebrated for who they are. Through collective youth activism, we aim to dismantle age-old stigmas, rejecting outdated views of differences as “disorders” or "disabilities." We fervently advocate for a strengths-based model of neurodiversity, empowering young people, forging bonds, uplifting each other, and driving change. Join us!
Founder, President
Davidson Young Scholar
Stanford Online High School
Aashna P.
California, USA
Hello! I welcome you to Youth for Neurodiversity. I grew up with undiagnosed family members for years, and then faced my own challenges dealing with neuromuscular deficits in my hand after an accident. As I embark on this journey to build our collective of champions, I urge you to join us. All youth deserve to feel included, respected, and celebrated for who they are by both peers and adults. I envision a world in which universal design is the norm, assistive technologies are ubiquitous, and neurodiversity is celebrated. Together, we can make a difference through amplifying personal stories,mobilizing allies, and impacting policy!
Rising high schooler (8th grade), programmer (USACO Bronze-level), charcoal artist, writer, researcher (Neuro + X), swimmer, origami enthusiast, baker. Honored by nonprofit "Embracing Our Differences" for best-in-show quote for bringing people together.
Mentor, Youth Advisor
Maxwell Palance
California, USA
Growing up with Autism Spectrum Disorder from a young age, Maxwell learned firsthand how sensory challenges, social misunderstandings, and anxiety can shape a child’s world. His journey from toddlerhood therapies to top-level programming endeavors now fuels his advocacy to show neurodiverse children that their potential can surpass any stigma.
High school senior, Stanford Neurodiversity Project Network for K-12 Neurodiversity Education and Advocacy co-chair, Immune Deficiency Foundation youth advisor, USACO Platinum-level programmer, mobile app developer, speaker, author, policy advocate.
Our Ambassadors!
Eleanor A.
Kentucky, USA
I have ADHD and was introduced to Youth for Neurodiversity by my friend Aashna. I am really interested in learning about neurodiversity and wanted to support her. I think this would be really fun to be a part of and would help me to better understand myself and others. I would love to share my story, help plan events, train others, take on projects that involve programming, writing, video, audio, and outreach to recruit teens & partners!
Rising high schooler
Nalin S.
Tennessee, USA
Hi, my name is Nalin, and I'm from Tennessee. I was introduced to Youth for Neurodiversity by one of my friends. I would love to learn about the different mental spectrums, and I want to contribute to the cause of helping people with autism, ADHD, and other differences. I think that everyone should have equal opportunities regardless of their mental challenges. I am excited to create resources, help out with creative design, art, social media, research, writing, and editing.
Rising high schooler, varsity tennis player, track runner, baker, writer, artist, and piano player
Mia J.
Kentucky, USA
I think it’s really important for all children, especially those with neurological challenges, to have equal access to education and opportunities. I want to learn about neurodiversity and help others. I am also interested in research projects for our initiative.
Rising high schooler
Maya D.
California, USA
Hello! I am thrilled to be part of Youth for Neurodiversity. I have a genuine fascination with how people think, learn and experience the world in so many different ways. Growing up, I became aware of how often those differences are misunderstood, especially since my friends and I were always "different," and how much potential is unlocked when they are embraced instead. I'm particularly drawn to the intersection of neuroscience, creativity, and advocacy. I believe that through research, art, and storytelling, we can help others see neurodiversity as a source for innovation and more strength rather than a limitation. I'm looking forward to contributing my voice, learning from others, and helping build a future where every young person feels seen and supported.
Rising high schooler, writer, artist, figure skater, coook, avid reader. Received Scholastic Gold Key for short story.
Francesca D.
Texas, USA
I’m neurodivergent and I want to make the world more accessible. I love finding creative outlets and helping others. I like baking, writing, and all different forms of art. Recently, I received an honorable mention for my art about my experiences. At Youth for Neurodiversity, I am interested in creative design, social media, planning events, learning, research, and writing.
Rising high schooler
Aarya D.
California, USA
Hello! Being part of a one-of-a-kind community feels so inspiring, and I would love to help build a strong , reliable connection among like-minded peers. I want to support diagnosed and undiagnosed people in any way I can, empowering everyone to celebrate their differences rather than hide them. I'm interested in expanding my knowledge in this field and fostering an accepting and stable environment.
Suzanne H.
Florida, USA
Bio coming soon
Alec
Arizona, USA
Bio coming soon
High school junior
Ivy Y.
California, USA
Bio coming soon
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