Beyond the Mask: Designing Work That Actually Works for Neurodivergent Minds
Join ADHD and Autistic founder Tania Gerard for an honest conversation on navigating creative and tech spaces at Mansfield Museum this February.
The Reality of the "High Functioning" Professional
In the world of creative, digital, and tech, "out of the box" thinking is a prized commodity. But for the 1 in 7 people in the UK who are neurodivergent, the "box" itself, the open-plan offices, the unspoken social hierarchies, and the rigid communication styles, can be a source of constant friction.
Many professionals find themselves caught in a cycle of "masking" performing a neurotypical version of themselves to fit in, only to end up facing burnout, anxiety, and a sense that they are "too much" or "not enough."
An Event Rooted in Lived Experience
On Wednesday, 25th February, the COLLECTIVE. Mansfield is hosting a unique session designed to peel back the curtain on these workplace realities.
Led by Tania Gerard, an award-winning consultant, speaker, and AuDHD (Autistic and ADHD) founder, this isn't a clinical lecture or a corporate box-ticking exercise. It is a session focused on what work actually feels like.
Tania will explore the topics often left out of the boardroom, including:
The Pressure of Performance: Navigating client relationships and the weight of "high functioning" expectations.
The Invisible Barriers: Identifying the subtle things that create friction in even the most well-intentioned workplaces.
Designing for Safety: How to build environments and communication styles that foster psychological safety and sustainable creativity.
Who is this for?
This session is designed for the entire ecosystem of the Mansfield creative and tech community:
Neurodivergent Professionals: To feel seen, validated, and equipped with language to describe their needs.
Leaders and Founders: To learn how to stop "leaking talent" by designing systems that support diverse minds.
Collaborators and Peers: To understand how to be better allies and build more effective, inclusive partnerships.
Event Details & Booking
This is a free event, but places are limited to ensure a comfortable and engaging environment for all attendees.
Date: 25th February 2026
Time: 17:00 - 19:30
Location: Mansfield Museum, Leeming Street, Mansfield, NG18 1NG
Cost: Free (Booking Required)
Book Your Free Place Here COLLECTIVE. Mansfield | Creative & Digital Events
Why Attend?
We aren't just talking about "awareness." We are talking about design. Whether you’re self-employed and struggling with the "admin tax" of ADHD or a manager wanting to support an autistic team member, you will leave with a fresh perspective on how to make work work for everyone.