Autistic Leaders Program
What is the Autistic Leaders Program?
The Autistic Leaders Program is a neurosensitive leadership development initiative designed to empower neurodivergent individuals by providing structured leadership training, mentorship, and real-world leadership opportunities. This program is open to anyone who wants to develop their leadership skills in a supportive and adaptive environment.
Core Belief: Autistics will step into leadership roles if given the right opportunity—one that respects their strengths, accommodates their needs, and provides ongoing support.
Our Mission & Vision
📌 Mission: To identify skills and passions in neurodivergent individuals, providing the resources, mentorship, and leadership opportunities needed for them to succeed as leaders.
📌 Vision: To establish a self-sustaining network of neurodivergent self-advocate leaders who support and uplift others within the community.
📌 Challenge: Neurodivergent individuals are often excluded from leadership opportunities due to rigid societal expectations. This program aims to break those barriers by providing a customizable, accommodating pathway to leadership.
📌 Solution: We create leadership pathways that match the individual's strengths, remove unnecessary obstacles, and provide mentorship, training, and real-world leadership experiences tailored to their needs.
Who is This Program For?
✅ Neurodivergent individuals (Autistic, ADHD, Dyslexic, and more) who want to develop leadership skills
✅ Those passionate about advocacy, organizing, or community leadership
✅ Individuals who thrive in adaptive, flexible, and accommodating environments
✅ Anyone who wants to engage in leadership at their own pace
How the Program Works
🔹 Step 1: Intake & Self-Assessment
- Participants choose their intake format (written, verbal, or alternative)
- Self-reflective and mentor-supported assessment
- Flexible process that participants can modify at any time
- Identify strengths, leadership goals, and accommodations needed
🔹 Step 2: Personalized Training & Learning Path
- Individual-paced learning with adaptive leadership training
- Multiple learning styles: self-study, mentor guidance, peer discussions
- Choose a preferred leadership track, customized to fit participant needs
- Training tracks include:
✅ Communication & Conflict Resolution
✅ Self-Leadership & Executive Functioning Support
✅ Team Management & Decision-Making
✅ Event Organizing & Community Engagement
🔹 Step 3: Shadowing & Mentorship
- Every participant chooses their own mentor (must be an existing leader)
- Participants can shadow any role for as long as needed
- Gradual transition from assisted leadership to independent leadership
🔹 Step 4: Leadership Readiness & Progression
- Readiness is determined through competency benchmarks
- Mutual agreement between the participant and their mentor
- Flexible transition into leadership roles
- Continued mentorship and professional growth opportunities
🔹 Step 5: Ongoing Support & Feedback
- Regular mentor check-ins and anonymous feedback surveys
- Refresher courses & continued education for long-term leadership success
- Ability to switch leadership tracks or roles as interests evolve
Why Join?
⭐ You Control Your Leadership Journey – Choose your own pace, format, and goals
⭐ You Get Matched With a Mentor – Learn from experienced leaders
⭐ You Receive Support & Accommodations – Your needs are prioritized
⭐ You Develop Real Leadership Skills – Gain hands-on experience
⭐ You Contribute to a Community – Help shape the future of neurodivergent leadership
How to Get Involved
📩 Interested in joining? Contact us:
James Orman – Founder and Executive Director of AOG/NARG
📧 [email protected]
🌐 Learn More About Autism On the Go (AOG):
Our mission is to create inclusive spaces, leadership pathways, and community support for neurodivergent individuals. We advocate for policies that ensure neurodivergent voices are heard and valued.
Let's redefine leadership together! 🚀