When asked about neurodiversity, the odds are most people wouldn’t be able to answer. Social media, television, and film often misrepresent neurodiversity, either exaggerating its effects or minimizing its impact.
Neurodiversity describes the unique ways people’s brains work – recognizing that not everyone processes information the same. It encompasses a wide range of cognitive styles, learning abilities, and neurological conditions including autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, and Tourette’s syndrome, to name a few. These natural variations show that there is not one “right” way for the brain to process information.
Marley, a high school junior from Virginia Beach, is taking action to help spread awareness of neurodiversity with her Girl Scout Gold Award project, “I Wish the World Knew…” Her goal is to raise awareness and foster inclusivity for neurodiverse individuals through art and self-expression. The Gold Award is the highest achievement in Girl Scouts and requires a scout to complete a project that makes a lasting impact on her community. Marley chose to focus on neurodiversity because of her deep belief in the power of art as a means of self-expression, and her recognition that people with neurodiverse conditions are often misunderstood or mistreated due to a lack of knowledge.
Marley’s project merges her love of art with her passion for advocacy. “Art has always been a form of self-care and discovery for me,” she says. “I hope this project helps others find the healing power of art, while also contributing to a more inclusive community.
“Art can give people an outlet to share more about themselves. It is a tool that enables people to express their needs and unheard voices,” Marley says. “Art can be a way to communicate and share one’s abilities, strengths, and needs with others.”
The central component of Marley’s project is an art show featuring the work of neurodiverse individuals from Hampton Roads. The exhibit was held at Embrace Counseling, a program of Jewish Family Service. In addition to the art show, Marley is designing and publishing a book featuring the artwork, which will be distributed to local agencies, schools, and organizations to further the message of neurodiversity awareness. To fund the project, Marley raised more than $500 by creating and selling inspirational jewelry, including bracelets with words of affirmation.
Throughout the project, Marley has received guidance from her friends and family as well as her community partner, Debbie Mayer, LCSW, and her mother, Michelle Fenley, LCSW, who both are counselors at Embrace Counseling. “Marley’s project is an incredible example of how art can bridge the gap in understanding,” says Mayer.
“I believe everyone has unique beauty,” Marley says. “Together, we can build a more inclusive community, where everyone’s contributions are valued.”
“I Wish the World Knew . . .”Inspiring a greater understanding of neurodiversity through art and self-expression
