Motherhood as Leadership,Creating Spaces & Solutions for Neurodiverse Kids

Motherhood as Leadership: Creating Spaces & Solutions for Neurodiverse Kids

Hosted by Bonfire Thousand Oaks & Rise & Lead Moms

Join us for an inspiring community conversation with Dr. Edlyn Vallejo Peña, Ph.D., Professor of Educational Leadership at CLU, Co-Founder of the Autism and Communication Center, and Founder & CEO of the Dream Community Center.

Dr. Peña’s leadership story began through her own journey advocating for her neurodiverse child, and she now helps families, educators, and communities design more inclusive and empowering environments for all learners.

Together, we’ll explore how motherhood can be a powerful pathway to leadership, how community empathy shapes better support for neurodiverse kids, and how each of us can contribute to more inclusive spaces—at home, in schools, and throughout our neighborhoods.

The conversation will be moderated by Agatha Altarovici, Founder of Rise & Lead Moms and Local Leader of Bonfire Thousand Oaks.
This gathering is open to parents, caregivers, educators, allies, neighbors, and anyone interested in community, inclusion, and personal growth.

## Event Details

📅 Monday, December 8, 2025
🕢 6:30–7:30 PM
(Doors open at 6:15 PM)
📍 Newbury Park Library – Conference Room
2331 Borchard Road
Newbury Park, CA
Cost: Free
RSVP: Required — space is limited
To reserve your spot, text your name(s) to 818-514-5090

## About Bonfire Thousand Oaks

Bonfire Thousand Oaks is part of a national initiative founded by Shannon Watts to ignite the power and potential of women through personal, political, and professional fulfillment. We host in-person gatherings that nurture connection, joy, and meaningful community impact.

This program is not a Thousand Oaks Library sponsored event.