Written by Evangelos Theocharis / Global Procurement Director of EY

Finally, a place has been created that can play the role of a safe haven for us neurodifferent people (including me with Asperger’s).

At the same time, however, it is also a place for the exchange of know-how, a means for discussion and problem solving, a source of creativity, innovation, “out of the box” thinking and productive debates.
A place to promote the need for valid and timely diagnosis… but also an optimistic means of communication through which inclusion, awareness, mutual respect and the unique abilities and perspectives that neurodiverse people possess will be promoted.

I hope, of course, that through this medium, first and foremost, Greek society will be informed about what Neurodiversity is .

Neurodiversity refers to the physical variation of human brains and ways of thinking, and includes conditions such as autism spectrum disorder , ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), dyslexia and others. It is not a disease and should not be an obstacle to the happiness, personal and professional happiness of the neurodiverse person. Moreover, we neurospicy (I like this term) have some particular strengths such as:

1. Creativity : Many of us have exceptional creativity and the ability to think outside the box. This allows us to approach problems in innovative ways.
2. Specialization : Oh yes! Some neurospicy people have the ability to focus on specific topics or activities for long periods of time, developing deep knowledge and skills in those areas.
3. Logical Thinking : We often have strong analytical skills and can process information in a logical and systematic way.
4. Authenticity : A different perception of the world allows neurodiverse people to be authentic and honest, which can inspire others.
5. Resilience : Many neurodiverse people carry – some more, some less – wounds and scars from bullying and challenges and difficulties in their daily lives. At the same time, however, they develop (or can develop if the wounds are not too deep) strong resilience skills. We are talking about huge reservoirs of resilience!
6. Attention to detail : Where others may overlook details…

The above information is not taken from a volume of wish lists, but is reality.
It is my reality and everyday life as a Global Director in a Multinational with a portfolio of 110+ countries.
It is the reality and everyday life as the company’s Neurodiversity Champion in Greece, my reality and everyday life as a member of the company’s Global Neurodiversity Center of Excellence.
But it is also the reality and everyday life of many neurodiverse people who – fortunately for them – live in countries and societies that treat neurodiverse people not only as a challenge but also as a source of wealth and innovation.
It goes without saying that – fortunately for them – it is the reality and everyday life of neurodifferent people where the state has foreseen to invest in structures and institutions that solve rather than create problems.

Ultimately, accepting and supporting neurodiverse people can lead to a more diverse and creative society. It is important to recognize and celebrate their strengths in order to create an environment that encourages their growth.

So I hope that this medium will be the beginning of something better, something bright, something that will strengthen the voice of people with spiciness!

Good start also to my friend Konstantinos Tachtsidis , with whom I know we will do many beautiful things.