Layla Messner (she/her)

Late diagnosed autistic adult who grew up in Canmore. She’s an innovative, interdisciplinary thinker with a Master’s degree, doctoral level studies in psychology, and certificates in wide a variety of fields, including deep learning and UX design. Yet traditional employment is inaccessible to her.

Ian Humphreys (he/him)

Employment Services Director at The Sinneave Family Foundation, leading the national delivery of EmploymentWorks In-Person and Online and expanding neuroinclusive training, education, and consultative services for employers.

Mich Lam
(they/them)

Mich is a neurodivergent AuDHDer and a 2nd generation Chinese-Canadian with family roots in Hong Kong. They identify as trans, non-binary, and queer and are an advocate for the queer and trans community through Canmore Pride. Mich has worked for various non-profits, with a focus on communications and graphic design.

Sarah McCormack
(she/her)

Sarah McCormack is the Director of Banff Public Library, where she champions community access to information, resources, sustainability initiatives, and social wellness programs. As a neurospicy leader, she works to create supportive environments that empower diverse thinking and meaningful change and brings firsthand experience navigating leadership and advocacy through a neurodivergent lens.

Workplaces aren’t always built with neurodivergent people in mind, but that doesn’t mean we don’t belong.

This event is all about sharing experiences, discussing real challenges, and equipping ourselves with strategies to navigate work as neurodivergent employees.

Whether you’re figuring out accommodations, handling workplace dynamics, or just looking for a space where people get it, this is for you.

You do not need to have a formal diagnosis.

This event is for those who are neurodivergent and employed

(it is not for senior leaders, HR or executives)

*child-minding available
*accessible venue with ramp to the entrance

What to expect: Together, we’ll share space for our four panelists to share their stories, and then we will have group table discussions after each story.

You are welcome to participate in any way that feels comfortable. There is no pressure to share or speak if you’d rather just listen and be present.

Schedule of Events:

  • 5:45pm Arrival & Welcome: Settle in, grab a donut and something to drink
  • 6pm Introduction from Mak (Frankie D's Donuts). They will also share guidelines for the space
  • 6:15pm 4 panelists sharing their stories, with a table group discussion after each story
  • 7:45pm A space to share thoughts, feelings, or reflections from the event.
  • 7:55pm Closing: Final reflections and resources for ongoing support

Parking: by the river or in the paid public parking across the street from the building.

Venue Accessibility: venue is wheelchair accessible with a ramp into the building.

Bathrooms: bathrooms are gendered, however their will be a sign designating one bathroom for all genders.

Seating Options: Chairs will be available for all participants. You are welcome to stand, sit, or move around as needed. If you prefer to sit closer to the front or need a specific seating arrangement, please let us know in advance or speak to a volunteer upon arrival.

Flooring: The room itself is free of tripping hazards, and walkways will be kept clear.

Scents: This event is not officially scent-free, but we kindly ask participants to avoid wearing strong perfumes or scented products to make the space more comfortable for those with scent sensitivities.

Lighting & Visibility: There will be no flashing lights or sudden visual effects. If you need to sit closer for better visibility, you are welcome to do so.

Acoustics: The facilitator will use a microphone to ensure everyone can hear comfortably.

Language & Communication: The presentation and sharing will be in english. If you need interpretation or any other communications needs, please email Mak at hello@frankiedsdonuts.com

Food & Drinks: Frankie D’s Donuts will be provided. Frankie D’s Donuts may contain trace allergens due to shared kitchen facilities. They are made in a facility where nuts are present. Ingredients in the Donuts include flour, salt, milk, butter, eggs, yeast, sugar, and other possible trace allergens. Additionally, Frankie D’s glazes contain a variety of ingredients. If you have an allergy, please inquire before consuming.

We will have some GF and Vegan Donuts available. These products are sourced from external suppliers, and we cannot oversee every ingredient or allergen present in these products. They may contain nuts and other trace allergens.

Contact Us
For questions or accommodations, email Makaylah at hello@frankiedsdonuts.com (at least 48 hours before the event).

Event Feedback
We value your feedback! You can share it through a feedback form at the event, or email Makaylah afterward at hello@frankiedsdonuts.com.

Thank you to our funding partners and sponsors: Banff Lake Louise Hospitality Association, Sinneave Foundation, Banff Canmore Foundation and Pauw Foundation
Click here to register