Our Mission - Empowering Youth

We are a United Nations-recognized youth-led nonprofit, a vibrant grassroots collective that brings neurodivergent and neurotypical teens together—forging bonds, fighting stigma, and jointly championing strengths, youth stories, inclusive opportunities, universal design, sensory spaces, assistive tech, and policy! Our mission is to break barriers for neurodivergent and differently abled youth and dismantle age-old stigmas.

Neurodiversity is for everyone. Differences are not deficits. Inclusivity isn’t about “accommodations”—it’s about creating true belonging, where youth feel understood, valued, and celebrated for who they are. Through collective activism, we fervently advocate for the strengths-based model of neurodiversity, empowering young people to drive change.

We are building chapters in multiple states in the US and internationally. We are honored to be accepted as a youth-leading organization by the United Nations Youth Office's Flagship Initiative on Youth Mental Health & Well-Being and the 2026 Davidson Young Scholar Ambassador program. Join Us!

Founder

Founder, President

Davidson Young Scholar
Stanford Neurodiversity Project's 2026 REACH camper
Stanford Online High School

My Story

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, programmer, researcher (Neuro + X), swimmer, charcoal artist, writer, origami enthusiast, baker. Honored by nonprofit "Embracing Our Differences" for best-in-show quote for bringing people together.

Mentors & Advisors

Mentor, Youth Advisor

Max's Story

Mentor, Youth Advisor

Smith College, Founder of Stanford Online HS Neurodiversity Student Alliance, Co-Leader of Accessible Education Initiative. Panelist at Stanford Neurodiversity Summit. Published poet.

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.

Berkeley freshman (incoming), 2026 Davos Neurodiversity Summit Leadership Wall Honoree, 2025 Co-Chair Stanford Neurodiversity Project Network for K-12 Neurodiversity Education and Advocacy, NASA N3 Neurodiversity Network Research Intern & Scholar, Immune Deficiency Foundation youth advisor, USACO Platinum-level programmer, mobile app developer, speaker, author, policy advocate.

Hannah Poplack

California, USA

Hannah Poplack is an autistic advocate with Tourette's syndrome who led Stanford Online High School's Neurodivergent Student Alliance for three years (class of 2026) and co-led Stanford OHS's Accessible Education Initiative, where she advocated for accessibility and educated professionals on how to work with neurodivergent students. Hannah is a student at Smith College, studying mathematics, philosophy, and psychology, with a focus on interdisciplinary approaches to disability justice. She frequently speaks about her lived experience as a neurodivergent self-advocate, from large events like the 2025 Stanford Neurodiversity Summit to local groups of neurodivergent children. Hannah is also a published poet and a hardcore Trekkie.

Advisor

Davidson Young Scholar Ambassador Program Manager

Nuntiya Smith

Nevada, USA

With vast experience nurturing and supporting neurodivergent youth and families, Nuntiya enjoys guiding Davidson Young Scholar Ambassadors who are motivated, inspiring and making a positive impact. Nuntiya also created and facilitates the Be Well program. She recognizes the trials and tribulations parents can face and created the program to support and encourage the well-being of Young Scholar parents and families.

Chapters & Leadership Team

Lusaka, Zambia

Chapter President

Luyando N.

Hi, I'm a teen girl from Zambia. I'm passionate about raising awareness and creating inclusive spaces for neurodiverse people. I believe that everyone deserves equal opportunities, understanding, and support, no matter how their brain works. Unfortunately in many communities, it is misunderstood as insanity or witchcraft which leads to institutionalization or even death. I want to be part of the change to stop this from happening. I hope to learn more about neurodivergent experiences while also contributing to meaningful change. I'm especially interested in using my skills in research, writing and public speaking to make a positive impact. I also work for the nonprofit Watch Us Grow. Follow me on Instagram and LinkedIn.

Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Medical Student. Curriculum Developer at NeuroAspire.

Felix A.

I am a medical student at Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria. I recognize that clinical excellence is incomplete without a profound understanding of neurodiversity and the unique lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals. My journey in medicine is driven by a commitment to advancing neurological health through a lens that is both clinically rigorous and socially inclusive. My goal is to bridge the gap between medical science and global advocacy by integrating the social and identity models of neurodiversity into my current teaching and future clinical practice. By connecting with this global community, I hope to help dismantle the stigma surrounding neurological differences in Africa and contribute to a worldwide movement that celebrates the diverse ways the human brain functions. Currently, I serve as a Curriculum Developer at NeuroAspire, where I design and deliver interactive neuroscience lessons for secondary school students. While I enjoy teaching foundational neuroanatomy, I am eager to join Youth for Neurodiversity to expand my perspective beyond the classroom.

Kumasi, Ghana

Yermiahu OA.

I am a student from Ghana with a growing interest in neuroscience, particularly in how environmental and social factors shape brain development and behavior. Living in a community where challenges such as economic stress and environmental exposure are common has made me curious about how these factors influence cognition, mental health, and long-term neurological outcomes. I want to join Youth for Neurodiversity because I am interested in understanding and advocating for diverse neurological experiences, especially in underrepresented communities. I believe neurodiversity is not just a scientific concept but also a social and ethical one, requiring awareness, inclusion, and education. Through this organization, I hope to learn more about neurodivergent conditions, contribute to discussions, and eventually help create awareness initiatives in my community that promote acceptance and support for individuals with different cognitive profiles.

Redwood City, California, USA

Albert C.

I have a physical disability myself. I use a wheelchair to get around. When I grow up, I went to many special needs camps and I often see neurodiversity kids. While I do not have neurodiversity, I feel the difference between neurodiversity and abled-body society. I want to bridge between them.

Chapter President

Louisville, Kentucky, USA

Eleanor A.

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!

Chapter Co-President

Mia J.

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.

Chapter Co-President

Franklin, Tennessee, USA

Chapter President

Nalin S.

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.

varsity tennis player, track runner, baker, writer, artist, and piano player

Plano, Texas, USA

Chapter President

Amulya K.

Hey! My name is Amulya! I am so thrilled to be a part of Youth for Neurodiversity and was introduced by Aashna, my cousin, herself! I’ve met and learned a lot from neurodivergent students at my school. While many are kind and supportive to them, but not always. Sometimes, others treat them like they’re “different,” and that make them feel left out or unseen. I really want to change that. Everyone deserves to be understood for what they can do, not judged for what they can’t. As a Youth for Neurodiversity ambassador, I want to help spread awareness, build empathy, and create safe spaces where everyone feels included and valued. It’s okay to be different — because nobody should ever feel alone for being who they are.

Swimmer, actress, singer, pianist, classical Indian dancer, writer, podcaster, artist, and member of NJHS. 3rd Chair Soprano 2 All-Region Choir

Austin, Texas, USA

Ambassador

Francesca D.

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.

Recipient of honors in arts. Loves writing and baking too.

Gainesville, Florida, USA

Mahak R.

I have founded a startup and nonprofit in the UAE and Florida that allows differently abled individuals to upskill and find employment opportunities!

John V. Lombardi Scholar at The University of Florida

Ambassador

Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Alec

High school junior, neurodivergent (dyslexia and Asperger’s). With rare diseases CVID Men2a and bone marrow failure. I want to help kids.

Ambassador

Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Los Altos, California, USA

VP of Communications & Social Media, Chapter President

Annie L.

I’m extremely passionate about accessibility, especially for the mentally differently abled, as well as awareness, growing up with friends and family who didn’t quite understand their own challenges. Neurodiversity is something to be celebrated, yet it still elicits unjust discrimination. These stigmas are what I hope to challenge with Youth for Neurodiversity.

VP of Education & Training. Chapter Co-President

Jisoo H.

As the older sister of a severely autistic brother (he's the best!), I've experienced the struggles that come with a family unfamiliar with neurodiversity. One of my brother’s many defining traits is his struggle to express. As a nonverbal, autistic eight-year-old, he struggles to express his discomfort, when something pricks him. He struggles to speak when he’s excited about a new toy. He struggles to convey his emotions, like everyone else can. In a society that leaves him behind in the dust, the least I can do is understand him, and people like him. As I have grown, my role has evolved from a sister trying to connect with her brother to an advocate! I would love to continue bridging the gap between neurodiverse communities and the resources/opportunities they deserve as I have through past research and advocacy work. Youth for Neurodiversity aligns perfectly with my personal ambition.

Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Morgan Hill, California, USA

Chapter President

Aarya D.

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.

Phoenix, Arizona, USA

San Jose, California, USA

Partnership Director, Chapter President

Unaysah R.

Every young person deserves to feel understood and celebrated. I came to know of Youth for Neurodiversity through my friend Aashna. My research is into AI literacy and bias and I am looking forward to novel ways of us youth learning about neurodiversity and shattering biases and myths. In my free time, I love rock climbing!

Chapter Co-President

Omar R.

Each of us is unique! I I want to support my friend Aashna and build a community of young people who champion each other. I love technology, hackathons, and building apps. I am looking forward to promoting and growing Youth for Neurodiversity. Let's go!!

Event & Outreach Director

Liya S.

I want to learn more about neurodivergence and how it affects people. I am also a member of Bay Brains Society for Neuroscience Youth. I joined Youth for Neurodiversity to help with education and training, social media and marketing, partner development, operations and budget.

Training Director

Adhitya R K.

I have been a programming tutor for neuro diverse kids at a 5013c. I have been my school's science olympiad captain, and Leader for scout troop of 100+ kids. I joined Youth for Neurodiversity to help with education, training, and planning events.

Ambassador

Ivy Y.

I think it is really cool for us to support our peers. I want to learning about neurodiversity, and help out with creative design, art, writing, and editing!

Ambassador

Pahal V.

I’m passionate about understanding how the brain shapes behavior, attention, and decision-making, with a strong interest in neuroscience, cognition, and neuroplasticity. Through my experience assisting in a neuropsychology practice, I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for how cognitive processes influence everyday life, which has strengthened my interest in connecting neuroscience with technology and real-world applications. At Youth for Neurodiversity, I hope to bring my leadership experience across school and youth-led initiatives in science communication, research, and advocacy to uplift neurodivergent voices!

Ambassador

Venkata U.

I am a member of the SF Bay Area Society for Neuroscience Youth Program and am interested in learning about neurodiversity and helping others. I am curious about how the brain works and how it affects behavior and learning, and connect with other students who are passionate about neuroscience and ways we can be better allies to our neurodiverse peers.

Ambassador

Arya D.

I joined Youth for Neurodiversity to help scale efforts, particularly in the intersection of art and mental health. Having led art clubs and departments, teaching art to neurodivergent kids and the elderly, I am excited to work with Aashna and community to promote the role of art for youth expressions, mental health, and wellbeing. I am also a member of the SF Bay Area Society for Neuroscience Chapter's Youth Program.

Massachussetts, USA

Ambassador

Rishi B.

I run an organization that conducts events to teach people in our community various hobbies that we're passionate about (e.g. origami, chess). I'm interested in collaborating with Youth for Neurodiversity by conducting origami sessions at local libraries to promote activities for neurodivergence.

Connecticut, USA

Ambassador

Reva S.

I joined youth for neurodiversity because I want to spread awareness regarding neurodiversity. Stigmatization has been a prominent issue in my community and I believe that educating others is a solution to help create a more inclusive environment globally.

New Jersey, USA

Ambassador

Ritwik M.

I want to help my friends in school.

Saratoga, California, USA

Chapter President

Julie Y.

Being a student with deep interest in neuroscience, I want to learn about neurodiversity to be an ally to my peers and create opportunities to be more accessible globally. I am excited to bring my leadership experience in scaling up Youth for Neurodiversity's training, events, policy, and outreach initiatives.

Palo Alto, California, USA

Simbhakali S.

I am a member of the SF Bay Area Society for Neuroscience Chapter's Youth Program. I came to know about YND from my friend Aashna. I am excited to learn about neurodiversity, beta testing Ally in Training™, and helping others. I am looking forward to helping out with research, recruiting others, social media, and creative design/art.

Ambassador

San Mateo, California, USA

Ambassador

Maya D.

Hello! I am thrilled to be part of Youth for Neurodiversity. I came to know of the group through my friend Aashna. 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.

Milpitas, California, USA

Chapter President

Pranjal G.

I am a neurodiverse learner. I am homeschooled and attend in-person classes. I joined Youth for Neurodiversity because I love to be a part of a community and find like-minded people. In my free time, I like to travel and play video games. I came to know about Youth for Neurodiversity from the SF Bay Area Society for Neuroscience Chapter's Youth Program that was started by Aashna.

Ambassador

Weichu M.

I want to give back to the community and make real impacts for others. I just want to help my sisters and others like them. I want to help with language translation, finding or creating resources, creative design/art, programming, and writing or editing.

Join Us

Our Mission - Empowering Youth

Founder

Founder, President

Davidson Young Scholar Stanford Neurodiversity Project's 2026 REACH camper Stanford Online High School

Aashna P.

California, USA

Rising high schooler, programmer, researcher (Neuro + X), swimmer, charcoal artist, writer, origami enthusiast, baker. Honored by nonprofit "Embracing Our Differences" for best-in-show quote for bringing people together.

Mentors & Advisors

Mentor, Youth Advisor

Mentor, Youth Advisor

Smith College, Founder of Stanford Online HS Neurodiversity Student Alliance, Co-Leader of Accessible Education Initiative. Panelist at Stanford Neurodiversity Summit. Published poet.

Maxwell Palance

California, USA

Hannah Poplack

California, USA

Advisor

Davidson Young Scholar Ambassador Program Manager

Nuntiya Smith

Nevada, USA

Chapters & Leadership Team

Lusaka, Zambia

Chapter President

Luyando N.

Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Felix A.

Kumasi, Ghana

Yermiahu OA.

Albert C.

I have a physical disability myself. I use a wheelchair to get around. When I grow up, I went to many special needs camps and I often see neurodiversity kids. While I do not have neurodiversity, I feel the difference between neurodiversity and abled-body society. I want to bridge between them.

Chapter President

Eleanor A.

Chapter Co-President

Mia J.

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.

Chapter Co-President

Ambassador

Maya D.

Davidson Young Scholar
Stanford Neurodiversity Project's 2026 REACH camper
Stanford Online High School