Lived Experience: A British-Nigerian Journey with Dyspraxia – Tumi Sotire

PARENT NEURODIVERSITY VIRTUAL SUMMIT
7TH NOVEMBER 2026
12pm - 6pm

The Afrikindness Online Neurodiversity Summit 2026 is a dedicated virtual event bringing together parents, carers, professionals, educators, community leaders, neurodivergent adults, and specialists from across the UK to explore how we can better understand and support neurodivergent children and young people.

Speakers

Dr Tom
Nicholson

Neurodiversity Summit Keynote Speaker

Dr Vivian
Okoye

Neurodiversity Lead
Afrikindness

Lovette
Monyei

Education Team Afrikindness

Nike
Oluyemi

Neurodiversity
Advocate

Dr. Anwuli Irene
Ofuani-Sokolo

Associate Professor of Law University of Benin

Nneka
Etafo

Neurodevelopmental Clinician

Zameal
Eboiyehimen

Founder and Director, Anchor Of Hope Autism Center

Dr Pedi
Obani

Parent Team Lead, Afrikindness – HOST

Adwina
Smith

Parent Empowerment Lead & Trainer – HOST

TIME
ACTIVITY
DETAILS
SPEAKERS
REGISTRATION & MORNING REFRESHMENTS

12:00 – 12:05

Welcome

Welcome address by Hosts

Introduction to the summit

Dr Pedi Obani
Adwina Smith

12:00 – 12:15

Opening Keynote

Beyond the Label: Creating a World Where Neurodivergent Children Can Thrive
This keynote will explore the importance of moving beyond diagnostic labels to understand the strengths, needs, and potential of neurodivergent children. We will share insights on how families, schools, and communities can work together to create inclusive environments that promote wellbeing, belonging, and success.

Dr Tom
Nicholson
Neurodiversity Summit Keynote Speaker

12:00 – 13:00

Workshop/1
Neurodiversity in Simple Terms: What Every Parent Needs to Know
An accessible introduction to neurodiversity designed specifically for parents and carers from underrepresented communities. This session will explain common neurodevelopmental differences, challenge cultural myths and misconceptions, and provide practical guidance for supporting children at home and in the community.

Dr. Vivian Okoye
Neurodiversity Lead Afrikindness

13:00 – 13:30

Workshop/2

From Awareness to Action: Creating a Support and Development Plan for Your Child
A practical session helping parents move from understanding their child’s needs to identifying priorities, setting meaningful goals, and developing a realistic plan for support and development

Zamuel Eboiyehimen
Founder and Director, Anchor Of Hope Autism Center

13:30 – 13:45

Coffee Break

13:45 – 14:15

Workshop/3

Know Your Rights: Understanding Your Child’s Legal Rights and Advocating Effectively
A practical introduction to the basic legal rights of neurodivergent and disabled children and how parents can confidently advocate for appropriate support.
Dr. Anwuli Irene Ofuani-Sokolo Associate Professor of Law University of Benin
14:15 – 15:15

Workshop/4

Navigating the Education System: Securing the Right Support for your Child
Helping parents understand education pathways, SEND support, working effectively with schools, and accessing the right educational provision for their child.

Lovette Monyei
Education team Afrikindness

15:15 – 15:45

Lunch Break

15:45 – 16:15

Workshop/5

Understanding and Supporting Your Child’s Health Needs
Helping parents understand how to navigate NHS pathways, access appropriate services, communicate their child’s needs, and work effectively with healthcare professionals.
Nneka Etafo Neurodevelopmental clinician
16:15 – 17:00

Workshop/6

The Carer’s Story: Caring for Your Neurodivergent Child Without Losing Yourself
The Ups and Downs and Everything in Between. An honest and relatable conversation about the realities of caring for neurodivergent child, including the emotional demands, unexpected joys, difficult moments, self-care, resilience, and the importance of supporting the carer as well as the child.
Nike Oluyemi Neurodiversity Advocate
17:00 – 17:45

Panel Discussion and Q & A

Thriving Beyond the Label
An interactive discussion exploring common challenges, practical solutions, audience questions, and key actions parents can take immediately to support their children.

All Speakers
17:45 – 18:00

Closing Keynote
From Awareness to Action – Creating Lasting Change Connect. Live. Thrive
A powerful reflection on the day’s learning, inspiring collective action to create more inclusive, understanding, and supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals and their families

Dr. Vivian Okoye
Neurodiversity Lead Afrikindness