Meet Kartini Clarke, CEO of the Young Neurodiversity Champions, fourth-year law student, and a passionate advocate for neurodiverse individuals.
Diagnosed with ADHD at 19 and suspecting ASD, Kartini’s story highlights both the struggles of growing up neurodivergent in an unsupported system and the incredible power of resilience and advocacy.
Kartini is not only a force for change but also an experienced and impactful speaker, confidently addressing audiences that range from politicians and public officials to employers, educators, and students.
"Our team was very impressed by Kartini; her willingness to share her own experiences was really impactful, and everyone was in awe of her getting up in front of a large group to present on something so vulnerable and personal."
A Journey of Resilience and Growth
Early Signs of Neurodiversity
From a young age, Kartini displayed exceptional intelligence and passion, reading far beyond her age level and engaging in adult conversations about politics. Yet, without a diagnosis, she faced growing challenges that went misunderstood. Perfectionism, insomnia, and anxiety were daily struggles, and teachers often labeled her as “messy” or “distracted.”
Despite her love for learning, judgment and stigma dulled her enthusiasm, and by her senior year, she felt disconnected from education.
A Teacher Who Made a Difference
One bright spot in her school years was Mr. Welch, a maths teacher who provided empathy and practical support. He recognized her struggles without judgment, teaching her techniques to manage anxiety and fostering her sense of belonging.
“He didn’t judge me; he offered empathy and practical guidance, showing me how powerful teacher support could be."
University: A Turning Point
At university, Kartini experienced the accommodations and understanding she had lacked in high school. From smaller exam rooms to funded ADHD diagnosis and flexible study options, the support transformed her academic experience and unlocked her full potential.
However, it also left her wondering how much more she could have achieved if this level of support had been available earlier.
Advocating for Change
Kartini is now a determined advocate for neurodiversity in education and beyond. Her advocacy includes:
Serving on the Ministry of Health’s ADHD reference group.
Representing youth as a former ACT political candidate, Unite union delegate, and Waitemata District Health Board stakeholder.
Raising awareness about the barriers neurodivergent adults face in accessing diagnoses and treatment, particularly for women and marginalized communities.
Kartini envisions a future where neurodiverse talents are recognized and supported. Her ultimate dream is to lead a law firm that accommodates neurodiverse and disabled lawyers, setting a precedent for inclusivity in the workplace.
Book Kartini Clarke to Speak to Your Group
Kartini is an experienced and engaging speaker, offering tailored workshops and presentations for diverse audiences. Whether you’re a policymaker, educator, employer, or student group, Kartini brings authenticity, expertise, and actionable insights to every session.
Her presentations cover topics such as:
Neurodiversity in education and the workplace
Building inclusive systems for neurodivergent individuals
Advocacy, resilience, and leadership
Make an impact—book Kartini Clarke to inspire and educate your audience today. 🌟