University of Westminster collaborates with charity Neurodiversity in Business to celebrate inclusion, creativity and belonging with Neurodiversity Pride 2026

Bringing together students, colleagues, alumni and members of the wider community, the event celebrated neurodivergent talent, creativity and lived experience through an engaging evening of comedy, poetry, interviews and conversation. Designed to create an inclusive and welcoming environment, the event encouraged attendees to share experiences, build new connections and celebrate the value that neurodivergent people bring to communities.

Hosted by broadcaster Char Bailey, the evening featured an inspiring line-up including Rosie Turner, Dean Quinton, Ki Griffin, Phoebe Constantine, Darren Goodwin, StandUpShelley, Dan Harris, Courtney Cornfield and Shevonne Matheiken.  

Professor Dibyesh Anand, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Employability and the Co-Chair of the University’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee, said: “Neurodiversity, like other forms of plurality, is a strength to be celebrated and events like this show exactly why.  An institution becomes richer when people are free to bring their whole selves, their different minds and ways of experiencing the world. At Westminster, inclusion is not about asking anyone to fit a single mould; it is about building a community where neurodivergent talent, creativity and lived experience are recognised, valued and made to feel at home.”

Edwards Hawkings, a second-year English Literature BA Honours student, said: "I was happy Claire persuaded me to come! Darren Goodwin was so funny and a really great guy. It was great to connect with him after the event."

Dr Claire Robertson, College of Liberal Arts and Science Disability Tutor and Co-Chair and Founder of the Colleague Disability Network, added: "The energy at this event was just electric. It was fantastic to be at an event where every single person felt comfortable to bring their whole selves. I wish I could rewind and do it all again!"

Dr Laura Boubert, Co-Chair of the University’s newly launched Colleagues Neurodiversity Network, said: "It’s been wonderful to open our doors to collaborate with local organisations to celebrate neurodiversity together in such a positive way.  I look forward to the next one!”

The celebration reflects the University's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By creating an environment where neurodivergent individuals are recognised, valued and empowered to participate fully, the event contributes to SDG 3: Good Health and Wellbeing through promoting psychological safety and supportive communities. It advances SDG 4: Quality Education by encouraging inclusive learning environments where diverse ways of thinking are celebrated and supports SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by championing representation, accessibility and equal opportunities for neurodivergent students, colleagues and the wider community.

Find out more about upcoming equality, diversity and inclusion events at the University of Westminster.