With 15-20% of the global population identifying as neurodivergent, industries worldwide face significant skills gaps by failing to tap into this talent pool. This presentation explores research comparing neurodiversity and education policies across seven countries, with a specific deep-dive into the New Zealand context. We will examine current NZ policies and unique cultural elements regarding neurodiversity arising from the country’s bi-cultural framework. The session will outline evidence-based "calls to action" for education providers and employers to move beyond compliance-based inclusion (e.g., disability plans) toward deliberate, cultural inclusion. We will demonstrate how better support structures lead to tangible outcomes: stronger employment rates, optimised skill utilisation, and reduced social costs. Attendees will leave with international examples and a roadmap for shifting the organisational mindset from ‘they’ to ‘us’.

Authors:
Stuart Martin, George Angus Consulting, New Zealand

About the Presenter(s)
Stuart Martin is Founder of George Angus Consulting in New Zealand. Research interests: inclusion, micro-credentials, lifelong learning. Currently working in credential policy, quality assurance and neuroinclusion.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgamartin/

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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