I am over the moon to announce that my project proposal (named; NeuROLLdiversity) was selected for the 2023 ROLL Models Project. Meaning I’ve been granted funding to allow me to bring it to life, as well as many other benefits and learning opportunities. You can read more about the INCREDIBLE ROLL Models project by Skateistan and Women Win here.
My project proposal for this years ROLL Models program was my most passionate yet, so I am absolutely over the moon to have been selected, amongst so many other amazing people and projects. It means that I can make my project a reality, and for that I am OVER THE MOON.
ABOUT MY PROJECT:
Not only is ADHD and ASD very present in my family, but one of my best friend’s child has ASD, with reduced communication skills. I have always been ignorant, and there has always been an overwhelming guilt for not knowing, or taking the time to learn how to communicate with him. Feeling like its a taboo subject or awkward to ask questions, and never taking my time to learn or understand him or my other family members or other people on the spectrum.
Over the past year I have been studying in my spare time to understand more about ASD, so I can become more confident in understanding and communicating with people who have ASD. I completed a level 2 qualification in Understanding Autism, thanks to the government scheme Learning Curve Group, Free Course Online. They offer a wide range of free courses on many subjects, including Autism and Mental Health, you can browse their options here.
As well as studying, I have been gaining experience working with young people with disabilities. Primarily those with ASD and Down Syndrome; some with limited communication skills and others who are high functioning. It has been an absolute joy getting to know everyone and how incredible they all are as individuals. Breaking those ignorant stereotypes I used to have, learning as I go along, not being afraid to ask questions, getting to know each of them as individuals and building relationships.
I have gained so much confidence and knowledge around ASD and most of all I have gained even more passion to run this project. I want to make skateboarding accessible for those whose neurodiversity or disability may make it harder for them to learn in a safe and supportive environment, or in an open skatepark or group session setting.
Having already done a few skateboarding sessions with the group of young people with disabilities that I currently work with, I am even more excited to run this project with a group of girls and minority genders, neurodivergent young people. The funding will allow for extra support, creative and educational workshops and other life and leadership skills to be delivered in our weekly program.
THANK YOU SO MUCH, Women Win, Skateistan and The GoodPush, for this incredible opportunity.
THANK YOU to Laburnum Boat Club for hosting so many sessions with me, for letting me join the team, build so many valuable skills and get to know so many incredible young people. Finally, for supporting my ROLL Models project again this year, I can’t wait to be back!
#skateboardingisfun #neurodiversity #accessibileskateboarding
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