“At Neurodiversity Learning, our mission is to foster creativity, support collaboration, and empower neurodiverse young people, their parents, and siblings.” Navedia Young
Creative Minds, with support from The Co-op Local Community Fund, is a photographic series celebrating community special educational needs projects using art as an enriching and therapeutic tool to support wellbeing and embrace the power of creativity among neurodivergent learners. Creative practice serves as a vital tool for offering new ways to connect, understand, find peace and combat anxiety, and by focusing on its communicative power, Neurodiversity Learning aims to facilitate nurturing spaces where individuals feel secure and valued, enabling them to flourish in their unique ways.
These photographs by Mark Chilvers illuminate the positive impact of creative endeavours on inclusivity and wellbeing, recognising organisations working in and around West Norwood, London that celebrate neurodiverse ways of sensing and interacting with the world. This show is also an invitation to help create a world that appreciates and rejoices in the vast spectrum of human talents and possibilities.
Featured community partners include Fritz Tutoring, A2ndvoice CIC, L’Arche UK and the National Autistic Society (Lambeth Branch).
Neurodiversity Learning CIC was founded by Navedia Young, a mentor and educator, specialising in supporting individuals and families with additional needs. In 2025, she will launch her advising, coaching, and tutoring service, both face-to-face and online, offering personalised support for neurodiverse individuals and their families while helping to navigate children’s educational needs. For more information, you can contact Navedia at Hellovedaguidance@outlook.com. To join her mailing list, link here.
Mark Chilvers began his photography career in 1998 at The Independent. In the 26 years since, he has published internationally and travelled extensively with his camera on assignments to all seven continents. He also volunteers with the Lambeth branch of the National Autism Society and runs the successful Boxing for Autism group at Miguel's Boxing Gym in Loughborough Junction, London, which he set up in 2022.
