Get Diversifused Episode 16: Navigating Neurodiversity: Perspectives from Professional Black Women

Welcome to Get Diversifused Episode #!16 Join host, Andrea Horton-Mericli, founder of ‪@Diversifuse‬. In this episode, we dive into the unique experiences of neurodiversity in the professional lives of Black women, featuring the inspiring insights of IngerShaye Colzie.
Summary:
This episode explores the experiences of Black women with ADHD in professional settings and the unique challenges they face. IngerShaye Colzie, an ADHD coach and psychotherapist, shares her personal journey and how she founded Alchemy Coaching for Black Women with ADHD. The intersectionality of race and gender influences the experiences of Black women with ADHD, including the biases and stereotypes they encounter. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, self-acceptance, and finding coping mechanisms that work for individuals with ADHD. It also highlights the need for organizations to be accommodating and flexible in supporting employees with invisible disabilities. In this conversation, Andrea and IngerShaye discuss the intersectionality of race, gender, and neurodiversity, particularly for Black women with ADHD. They emphasize the importance of empowerment through community and the role of organizations in promoting inclusivity for neurodivergent individuals. They also highlight the significance of culturally competent mental health support and the need for organizations to prioritize diversity, equity, and accessibility. The conversation provides key takeaways and possible next steps for listeners, including connecting with support networks, educating oneself, advocating for inclusive policies, and prioritizing self-care.
Takeaways:
- Black women with ADHD face unique challenges in professional settings due to the intersectionality of race and gender.
- Self-awareness and self-acceptance are crucial for individuals with ADHD to understand how their condition affects them and find coping mechanisms that work for them.
- Organizations need to be accommodating and flexible in supporting employees with invisible disabilities, including ADHD.
- The ADHD Black Professionals Alliance provides a community and resources for Black professionals with ADHD to seek support and address barriers. Intersectionality plays a crucial role in the experiences and challenges faced by Black women who are neurodivergent.
- Empowerment through community is essential for neurodivergent individuals, providing support, advocacy, and resources.
- Culturally competent mental health support is crucial for Black individuals with ADHD, and organizations should prioritize inclusivity.
- Educate yourself on the intersectionality of race, gender, and neurodiversity, and seek out resources and communities that center the experiences of Black women with ADHD.
- Advocate for inclusive policies and practices in your workplace or community organization, promoting diversity, equity, and accessibility for neurodivergent individuals.
- Prioritize self-care and mental health support, and engage in conversations about the importance of intersectional DEI efforts and embracing neurodiversity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:29 Guest Introduction: Ingershe Kolze
03:22 Challenges Faced in Education and Career
08:18 The Importance of Diagnosis and Acceptance
10:15 Discovering ADHD Coaching
19:14 Bullying and Rejection-Sensitive Dysphoria
20:43 Coping Mechanisms and Living a Fulfilling Life
28:20 Embracing Neurodiversity and Unique Perspectives
35:30 Seeking Support and Resources for Black Women with ADHD
36:56 Intersectionality and Experiences in Professional Settings
38:23 Empowerment through Community
43:00 Culturally Competent Mental Health Support
56:27 Promoting Inclusivity and Embracing Neurodiversity
Possible Next Steps for Listeners:
- Connect with the ADHD Black Professionals Alliance to access resources, support networks, and advocacy opportunities for Black professionals and individuals with ADHD.
- Educate yourself on the intersectionality of race, gender, and neurodiversity, seeking out literature, podcasts, and online communities that center the experiences of Black women with ADHD.
- Advocate for inclusive policies and practices in your workplace or community organization, promoting diversity, equity, and accessibility for neurodivergent individuals.
- Prioritize self-care and mental health support, seeking out culturally competent therapists or coaches who understand the unique needs of Black women with ADHD.
- Engage in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues about the importance of intersectional DEI efforts and the value of embracing neurodiversity in all its forms.
IngerShaye's Contact Information:
Website: ingershaye.com/
LinkedIn: / ingershayecolzie
Facebook: / inger.s.colzie
Instagram: / ingershaye
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
uppbeat.io/t/cruen/in-the-now
License code: HGKTOZTLLQWFKIMZ