ADHD, autism, dyslexia, intellectual giftedness or dyscalculia are all examples of neurodiversity. The Deloitte Neurodiversity Network was created to embrace, support and encourage this diversity of human brains and minds. 'We often get stuck in our own heads, thinking that everyone is the same as us. But we all have a different way of perceiving the world around us and it is important to be aware of that', says Isabela Haschelevici, Consultant Forensic & Financial Crime at Deloitte. 'Educating neurotypical colleagues about neurodiversity allows neurodivergent colleagues to thrive. Our goal is to ensure that everyone feels empowered to approach their job in a way that fits with how their minds and brains work.'

Meeting new people Isabela (27), who is originally from Brazil, has been with Deloitte for 3 years. 'I have a background in Data Science and started at Deloitte as a Data Analytics Trainee. Once my traineeship ended, I joined the Forensic Analytics subteam within Financial Advisory. Through advanced analytics, we help with investigations and advise clients on how to deal with and prevent financial crime and fraud. An exciting working environment in which I especially enjoy that I am constantly meeting new people with completely different backgrounds.' But as empathetic and people-oriented as Isabela is, she has always known that she is a bit different than others. 'About a year ago I was diagnosed as neurodivergent. It made me even more curious about others, but I also wanted to learn more about myself. That is why I stumbled upon the Neurodivergence Gallery by Marta Styczen, a virtual art gallery that shows the world from neurodiverse perspectives. ‘As art fits beautifully in every space, so do conversations about neurodiversity’ is the logo of the initiative and that resonated with our Neurodiversity Network.'

Inviting colleagues to start the conversation From March 18 to 22, the Deloitte Neurodiversity Network hosted the Neurodiversity Celebration Week. 'We organized multiple activities for different groups of people. Lunches for neurodivergent colleagues to share experiences, info sessions to spread awareness about neurodiversity, coaching sessions for leaders and even an art workshop, to break away from the usual office setting. In addition to these events, through a collaboration with the Neurodivergence Gallery, a beautiful coffee table book was printed, consisting of a collection of artworks created by neurodivergent artists. On each floor of our office building The Edge a coffee table book was placed to invite colleagues to start the conversation and share their story', Isabela explains. 'And last but not least, Anna Verduin’s art collection The feeling body was displayed in which this Dutch artist explored neurodivergent body experiences. Deloitte even bought the artwork and we are now looking for the perfect permanent hanging spot!'

A place that accepts you for who you are 'It makes me really proud that Deloitte is making such an effort to support those who are often the least represented and understood', Isabela says. 'Navigating a world that wasn’t built to fit your reality can be exhausting, especially when tackling complex tasks. Creating a work atmosphere where my colleagues and I can express preferences in our ways of working, without being scrutinized, feels empowering. This autonomy also means all our focus is directed at delivering high quality work, instead of relearning how to do something that’s already known. Pretending to be something you’re not, takes a lot of energy. Given most of my week I am working, it’s important for my workplace to be somewhere that doesn’t drain me. A place that accepts you for who you are. Then, I can also be energized to enjoy my life outside of Deloitte.'