As I have become more comfortable with my diagnosis, I have become passionate about advocating for greater acceptance and support for neurodiverse individuals in society, emerging stronger, more resilient, and more authentically myself than ever before.
It has also fueled my passion to not only become an advocate for neurodiversity, raising awareness and promoting acceptance of ADHD, Asperger’s, and other related conditions, but more importantly make a practical intervention through the co-founding of The Sanjay Mortimer Foundation, where I also serve as Chair.
Sanjay Mortimer Foundation
Founded in memory of Sanjay, a co-founder of E3D-Online and a legend in the 3D printing industry who played a huge role in revolutionising FDM 3D printing and was always open about his own diagnosis, ADHD.
The SMF recognises that neurodivergent minds often think creatively; they can be analytical, highly focused, excellent problem solvers, have high attention to detail, and think outside the box. They may struggle at school as traditional education systems focus on skills that special educational needs (SEN) students find challenging. This can result in them becoming discouraged and disinterested in learning.
SMF aims to find these individuals at an early age and introduce them to a hands-on way of learning, primarily through making. Interactive activities, such as 3D printing, can provide an outlet for SEN individuals, helping them to realise where their talents and strengths lie.
The fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, in particular, rely on these neurodiverse characteristics. If we, as a foundation, can find and empower these individuals within the engineering world and build their self-esteem, they may well go on to impact the science, technology and engineering sectors and help to define its evolution.
https://www.sanjaymortimerfoundation.org/