Autistic Speaker Series: Presented by Autisticafé, USask & Autism Services

A hybrid speaker series aiming to amplify and uplift Autistic voices in Saskatchewan and bring together members of the autism community. Join us for the first presentation in a hybrid speaker series designed to deepen understanding of the lived experience autism in adults and to broaden how we think about autism. There is an in-person event in room 1B11 of the USask health science building or a Zoom option (link below). This speaker series is a collaboration between Autisticafé, a community group of autistic adults, Autism Services of Saskatoon, and researchers from the School of Rehabilitation Science at the University of Saskatchewan. Together, we aim to increase understanding of autism by sharing the voices and lived experiences of Autistic adults. Through personal stories and community dialogue, the series seeks to inspire and empower Autistic individuals, challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about autism, and raise awareness of important issues such as access to diagnosis, late diagnosis, and the unique experiences of women and gender-diverse autistic people. By fostering greater understanding and connection, we hope to create a more inclusive and supportive community for Autistic people across the lifespan. Our first speaker, Jae Anderson, a non-binary autistic advocate diagnosed in adulthood, will share their journey to diagnosis, the challenges they encountered along the way, and the resilience they cultivated as they came to better understand themselves and their neurodivergent identity. Content warning: Mature topics and traumatic experiences will be discussed in this presentation. Some may find the content triggering or upsetting. Zoom option: There is a zoom option for those who cannot come into the physical space, and the talk will be recorded for anyone that can't make the event. https://usask-ca.zoom.us/j/98696215031?pwd=faPMV8IzFErcqyDXfi7vRS3vgi1GIY.1 Location: The event will take place in the Health Science building of the University of Saskatchewan in room 1B11 at 5:00pm. The Health Science building is on the South West corner of campus and the Tim Hortons is on the main level of the building, accessible from all entrances. We have attached a campus map, a map of the building and a photo of the room (1B11) in case you would like to visualize the space in advance to know what to expect. Navigation: We suggest everyone meets out front of the Tim Hortons just inside the main entrance at 5:00pm. There will be an Autistic volunteer with a sign to greet you! We will guide the group to the room 1B11 in the B-wing so no one gets lost.