About us
Welcome to the Autistic Professionals Network - Palmerston North!
Are you on the Autism Spectrum and seeking connection and growth? Then please join our group of neurodiverse professionals in Palmerston North!
We together embrace and celebrate neurodiversity through professional networking, career development, and shared life experiences.
We welcome all neurodivergent individuals recognising the rich mosaic of perspectives that ASD intersects with like ADHD, Dyslexia or Dyspraxia.
If you self-identify as neurodivergent you are welcome here.
Our safe and inclusive space fosters learning, support, and navigating the unique challenges and triumphs of neurodiversity in the professional world.
We're grateful for our neurotypical allies (also welcome to join this group) who build bridges and amplify our voices. Let's all celebrate the beautiful symphony of neurodiversity together.
If you'd like to get in touch with the organisers — for volunteering, sharing feedback, offering suggestions, or anything else — please send us an email at APN_Palmy@proton.me. You can also follow us on Facebook. We look forward to hearing from you!
Please note that we're individual neurodiverse people sharing our thoughts on career, business, and life. We are not a professional counselling or therapy group. If needed, please seek professional support. Thank you for understanding.
We are affiliated with the Autistic Professionals Network - Wellington, and are extremely grateful to the Wellington organisers, Robert and Crystal, for their support.
We look forward to welcoming you to our next event!
Code of Conduct
By attending any event, or using any affiliated digital platform of the Autistic Professionals Network, constitutes agreement and adherence to our adopted Code of Conduct.
FAQs
Do I need a formal diagnosis to attend?
No. If you are self diagnosed, or just wondering if you might be neurodivergent, you are welcome. Neurotypical allies are also welcome.
What do you mean by “professional”?
If you’re asking that question then you probably fit. Most of us do not go to work in a suit and tie. Whether you do paid work, volunteer work, or are looking for work, you are welcome to join us. Students are absolutely welcome.
Do you have a dress code?
No, wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Most of us are pretty casual (jeans, t-shirts etc.) but it’s entirely up to you.
Am I too old?
Absolutely not. Our membership encompasses a wide range of ages.
Upcoming events
4
Encounters with the neurotypical world
Palmerston North, Palmerston North City, Palmerston North, NZDo you struggle to understand vague and imprecise instructions?
Have you ever said exactly what you meant and not been believed?
Do people find you disconcerting, even when you follow the "small talk script" correctly?Here we will dip into some research on how different neurotypes perceive and communicate (or fail to communicate) with one another.
There will be space to share your own experiences if you choose to, ask questions, and learn from other attendees.
You do not need a formal diagnosis to attend. Newcomers are welcome!
Code of Conduct
By attending any event, or using any affiliated digital platform of the Autistic Professionals Network, constitutes agreement and adherence to our adopted Code of Conduct.5 attendees
Let's visit the Urban Eels
He Ara Kotahi Bridge, Corner Dittmer Drive and Ruha Street, Palmerston North, NZLet's take a walk along the river to the Urban Eels platform. We'll get to enjoy the autumn weather, hang out with our neurodiverse friends, and maybe see an eel.
We'll meet at the Dittmer Drive end of He Ara Kotahi Pedestrian Bridge at 10am. Look for the person holding the sunflower sign. The walk is mostly flat. It's 3.8 km (return) and will take approximately 50 min.
After the walk we can grab a coffee or a milkshake at the coffee cart and hang out by the river. Newcomers are always welcome. We will postpone in the event of bad weather. Eel sightings are not guaranteed but it should be a fun morning out.
Code of conduct
By attending any event, or using any affiliated digital platform of the Autistic Professionals Network, constitutes agreement and adherence to our adopted Code of Conduct.5 attendees
Matariki gathering
Palmerston North, Palmerston North City, Palmerston North, NZLet's celebrate Matariki (Winter Solstice) with good food and good fellowship.
Bring your favourite home-baked goodies to share and hang out with friends new and old.
If you don't feel like baking then just come and share in the bounty of good snacks, coffee/tea, good fellowship, and mellow conversation.
The winter solstice, which usually falls on June 21st or 22nd in the southern hemisphere, is the shortest day and longest night of the year. It marks the start of winter and a significant change in the amount of daylight hours.
In Māori culture, the winter solstice is often celebrated as part of Matariki, the Māori New Year. The celebration of Matariki and the winter solstice together is a way to recognise the change of seasons and the natural rhythms of the earth.
There is no agenda for this Meetup except good times.
First-timers are welcome. See you there!
Code of conduct
By attending any event, or using any affiliated digital platform of the Autistic Professionals Network, constitutes agreement and adherence to our adopted Code of Conduct.4 attendees
Autism and the law
Hancock Community Centre, 77-85 King Street, Palmerston North, NZJoin Barrister and Solicitor Tim Leighton for an informative Meetup exploring the legal system in New Zealand and the effect on the Neuro-diverse community.
Timothy will discuss the Criminal Justice system from a Neuro-diverse perspective.
Timothy will also discuss the law around school discipline and how to protect young people from abuses of the system.This Meetup is designed for:
- Autistic individuals and their families.
- Professionals working with autistic individuals.
- Anyone interested in learning more about autism rights and inclusion.
Come prepared to:
- Ask questions
- Share your experiences
- Learn from others and contribute to a supportive and inclusive discussion
Introducing Barrister and Solicitor Tim Leighton
Timothy Leighton was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand in 2022 having graduated from the University of Canterbury. Timothy has previously been a full time defence lawyer in Auckland and has experience representing people charged with minor offences such as drunk driving to serious charges such as Murder and serious sexual offending.
Timothy now practices in Wellington at Frontline Law. His areas of practice include:- Criminal Law, Pal 2 Legal Aid Provider
- Civil Litigation
- Employment Law
- Education Law
Disclaimer: Nothing in this talk constitutes legal advice, Mr Leighton is a Lawyer, he is not your lawyer. For every rule there is an exception.
Code of conduct
Attending any event, or using any affiliated digital platform of the Autistic Professionals Network, constitutes agreement and adherence to our adopted Code of Conduct.5 attendees
Past events
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