Celebrating young creative talents

Author:
Lisa Udet

Changing the world. One mind at a time.

(TLDR) The myth that neurodivergent individuals lack empathy is not just oversimplified - it's fundamentally flawed. Our latest blog post delves into the nuances of empathy, challenging misconceptions and highlighting how societal norms can distort our understanding of this complex emotion. Learn to embrace a more nuanced view of neurodiversity and empathy, recognizing the unique strengths and perspectives neurodivergent individuals bring to our world.

Celebrating young creative talents
Our former apprentice, Anastasia Calia, was recognised at the Viscom Education Award for her exceptional graduation result: a 5.7 (out of 6). For context: that score is rare. Very rare. And she earned every decimal.

Anastasia joined the twofold academy as an Interactive Media Design apprentice, and from the beginning, it was clear: this is someone who loves to grow and become someone. With a sharp eye, sharp mind, and creative instincts well beyond her years, she became one of those talents you instantly know will go far.

And she has.

What this means for Us

Achievements like Anastasia’s are more than individual wins, they’re proof of what happens when young neurodivergent people are given the right environment, the right support, and the right trust to grow. At twofold, our academy exists for exactly that purpose. We believe in pathways, opportunities and structure that supports.This is what our academy is built on:

  • Creating space: Where different brains can work their way, not “the expected way.”
  • Building confidence: Because many neurodivergent young people arrive with skills, but not always with belief in themselves.
  • Nurturing talent: With real client work, real mentorship, and real responsibility.
  • Watching growth happen: From shy first steps in design tools to award-winning outcomes like our Hofkino.

When you put the right ecosystem around neurodivergent talent, things like this happen.

A Moment worth applauding

Standing on that stage, being honoured among the best creative graduates of the year, Anastasia wasn’t just representing herself. She was representing:

  • the power of inclusive education
  • the resilience autistic people have
  • the potential of neurodivergent young professionals
  • and the future of the creative industry



Highlighting a key statistic, Noé notes, "If 20% of our society is on the spectrum, you'll likely find that ratio reflected in management levels too." This comment underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing neurodivergent talent at all levels of an organization.

The podcast also touches on the significance of acknowledging the limitations in current inclusion practices and the steps necessary to sensitize both neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals about each other's talents. Noé advocates for strategic investments in diversity initiatives, such as job coaches, to enhance workplace inclusivity.

This engaging discussion provides practical recommendations for daily leadership and highlights the critical role of investments in promoting diversity. For leaders and managers seeking to foster an inclusive environment, Noé’s insights are invaluable.

👉 Dive into the full podcast to gain deeper understanding and actionable strategies to leverage neurodiversity in your leadership approach.

Listen to the full podcast here