Neurodiversity and Hidden Disabilities: Creating Workplaces Where Every Mind Thrives
The Sustainable Cork Programme (SCP) is designed to set a vision for a more sustainable and resilient Cork, empowered by a thriving business community.
As SDG Champions (2024-2025), designated by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, we continue our active commitment to embedding the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across our organisation. This event directly advances SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by addressing barriers, discrimination and stigma to foster inclusion and equal participation in the workplace.
The session will highlight the importance of creating truly accessible, supportive and inclusive workplaces where all employees can thrive. It will explore key considerations around recognising and supporting hidden disabilities, building neuroinclusive environments, and the wider benefits of fostering understanding and belonging across organisations.
As SDG Champions (2024-2025), designated by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, we continue our active commitment to embedding the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across our organisation. This event directly advances SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by addressing barriers, discrimination and stigma to foster inclusion and equal participation in the workplace.
The session will highlight the importance of creating truly accessible, supportive and inclusive workplaces where all employees can thrive. It will explore key considerations around recognising and supporting hidden disabilities, building neuroinclusive environments, and the wider benefits of fostering understanding and belonging across organisations.
Why you should attend:
- Gain first-hand insight into how people with hidden disabilities can help employers build more inclusive workplaces- Learn how recognising and supporting neurodiverse talent can boost innovation, performance and talent
- Hear how inclusive leadership and employee networks can remove barriers and foster workplaces where every mind can thrive
Speakers:
Adam Harris, CEO, AsIAm
Adam is the Founder and CEO of AsIAm, Ireland's Autism Charity, based on his own experiences growing up as an Autistic person in Ireland. He was appointed to the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission in 2020 and served as an Executive Council Member for Autism Europe. He is a Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Awardee and has sat on and advised many government consultative and policy committees on disability rights and inclusion, which have helped shape national policies for a more inclusive society.
Yvonne Brewer, Country Manager, Auticon Ireland
Orna Conway is the Executive Business Manager to the Chief Customer and People Officer at ptsb. With over a decade of experience at PTSB, Orna is focused on driving strategic initiatives that enhance customer and colleague experiences. She is passionate about inclusion and co-chairs ADAPT, PTSB’s Employee Resource Group dedicated to supporting disabled colleagues and fostering an accessible workplace. Outside of work, Orna is a proud mum to two neurodivergent boys, which fuels her commitment to advocacy and creating environments where everyone can thrive.
In recognition of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3rd December), this Sustainable Cork Programme will explore the theme of neurodiversity and other hidden disabilities in the workplace, a vital but often overlooked aspect of diversity and inclusion.
This conversation aims to increase awareness, challenge stigma, and share examples of inclusive practices that make a real difference in the workplace.
The Sustainable Cork Programme is in association with Cork Chamber Skillnet, ESB Generation & Trading and Statkraft.Adam Harris, CEO, AsIAm
Adam is the Founder and CEO of AsIAm, Ireland's Autism Charity, based on his own experiences growing up as an Autistic person in Ireland. He was appointed to the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission in 2020 and served as an Executive Council Member for Autism Europe. He is a Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Awardee and has sat on and advised many government consultative and policy committees on disability rights and inclusion, which have helped shape national policies for a more inclusive society.
Yvonne Brewer, Country Manager, Auticon Ireland
Yvonne Brewer is the Country Manager of Auticon Ireland, a global IT consulting and social enterprise that combines commercial excellence with social impact by employing autistic and neurodivergent professionals as technology consultants. With more than 20 years of experience in technology and consulting leadership, Yvonne brings a unique perspective on how inclusion and business growth can go hand in hand. She is passionate about creating workplaces where neurodivergent talent can thrive, and where inclusion is not only a social imperative but a driver of innovation, quality, and performance.
Orna Conway is the Executive Business Manager to the Chief Customer and People Officer at ptsb. With over a decade of experience at PTSB, Orna is focused on driving strategic initiatives that enhance customer and colleague experiences. She is passionate about inclusion and co-chairs ADAPT, PTSB’s Employee Resource Group dedicated to supporting disabled colleagues and fostering an accessible workplace. Outside of work, Orna is a proud mum to two neurodivergent boys, which fuels her commitment to advocacy and creating environments where everyone can thrive.
Moderated by:
Dr Alicia Mateos-Cárdenas, REEValue & Sustainability Lead, Cork Chamber
Alicia leads the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in the Value Chain REEValue project, funded by the European Commission. Additionally, she serves as a central, cross-functional lead for all Chamber sustainability activities, collaborating closely with the senior management team and the Sustainability Committee. Alicia holds a PhD in Environmental Science and has been designated as a 2025 Climate Ambassador by An Taisce.
This conversation aims to increase awareness, challenge stigma, and share examples of inclusive practices that make a real difference in the workplace.
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In association with
The Sustainable Cork Programme is rooted in the Chamber's commitment to the UN SDGs and the vision for Cork and is designed to set a vision for a more sustainable and resilient Cork, empowered by a thriving business community.
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Date and Time
Friday Dec 5, 2025
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM GMT
Location
Online
Fees/Admission
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