The Future is Neurodivergent | Jennifer Poyntz | TEDxAungierSt

Jennifer reflects passionately on her journey and talks about the increased population who are coming to understand their neurodivergence and become empowered by their differences. Since earning her BA and MSc from the University of Galway, Jennifer Poyntz has begun a PhD Programme specialising in English and Disability Studies. Diagnosed as having ADHD and autism at the age of twenty-six, Jennifer has dedicated her career to advocating for neurodivergent-friendly measures in the workplace and higher education and is currently employed at AsIAm, Ireland’s National Autism Charity where she oversees the running of the Adult Support Programme. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@CC-vo7yd]

"For too long we've been building a society that tolerates differences rather than celebrates uniqueness. To be different is to be vulnerable, and to be vulnerable is to be truly alive." Powerful words. Thank you, Jennifer.

[@dollieschuster9106]

I am 74 years old and was diagnosed with ADHD and Autism 6 weeks ago. I did grieve the decades of struggling, but now I'm excited to embrace the person tly am. Thank you!

[@MaggieEmm]

I self-diagnosed last year at the age of 68. I do grieve the paths not taken through feeling inadequate, and the difficulties encountered because of not knowing who I was, but I also had some wonderful times over the years, and have always found joy in the little things. Now I've let myself off the hook and have accepted and celebrate myself for the person that I am. Not everyone, even neurotypical people, gets to do this. I feel lucky!

[@homeandabroad19kb37]

As a mum to three neurodiverse children, I found this incredibly moving 💙

[@jenniferpoyntz]

Thank you so much for saying that. It means so much - I don't doubt that your children are lucky to have you 💛

[@RV19924]

I’m 31 finding out I have ASD wearing a mask my life thinking it was normal to copy people to become a marine tanker, senior year college drop out, but every relationship romantically went wrong caused me to look within and living will is the crux of trying to thrive into your purpose.

[@which-Rainey-shall-I-be-today]

I have been so moved by this. I've not had an official diagnosis but having looked into this subject for some time and done online tests I am firmly convinced of my autism and some of your words hit me so hard I'm in tears. Thank you for being brave enough to stand on that red spot and show your vulnerability. You speak so beautifully, eloquently and with such feeling 💚

[@jenniferpoyntz]

This comment has really hit me. The journey to self-understanding is huge and full of peaks and pits that can be so overwhelming. Be kind to yourself and when you are ready, the world will only be improved by you standing in your own identity 💛

[@tanial3183]

We're not a diagnosis. We're stories.. ♡

[@AmandaMcGuinness]

Absolutely incredible 💜

[@mysteriousone9829]

Thank you so much for your lesson !

[@ambertyler5844]

Wonderful words

[@roseysoulsco]

So moving ❤

[@rheagansparks9313]

Absolutely brilliant. And profoundly beautiful. 🎉😊❤

[@tdc3298]

Im an aspie too. Thanks for sharing. I feel less alone.

[@ainedunne412]

Congratulations on speaking on TeD Jennifer! Hope your PhD research is going well and looking forward to the contributions you will make to the neurodivergent community. ❤ Take care of yourself. Annette

[@2012BeyondtheWorld]

Damn this is very good. Thank you for sharing!

[@nikkilight2703]

"I see everything in mi-nute, horrifying detail." If this doesn't capture autism, I don't know what does.

[@moniquehebert178]

Profound!

[@amandasymon4363]

Thank you 🙏 I feel accepted - What a relief ❤️

[@jenniferpoyntz]

Thank you so much for watching, it means the world 💛

[@missoats8731]

Wow, this was incredible. I hope many neurodivergent people get to see this video.

[@eksiejanemusic]

💙

[@AskIvy]

🔥

[@jaywyse7150]

🙄