Different by Design: Autism, Neurodivergent Identity & Self-Discovery with Tamsyn Hawken

What happens when you stop trying to fit in and start embracing who you truly are?In this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz sits down with Tamsyn Hawken, a mental health mentor supporting university students across the UK, to discuss autism, ADHD, identity, belonging, and the journey toward self-discovery.Drawing from her experiences as a queer neurodivergent woman, Tamsyn shares how growing up in a rural village shaped her understanding of herself and how a lack of representation delayed her recognition of neurodivergence. She reflects on receiving autism and ADHD diagnoses, the process of unmasking, and the importance of finding spaces where people feel safe to explore and embrace their identities.Using her powerful metaphor of being a zebra among horses, Tamsyn highlights what it means to feel different in a world that often expects conformity—and how self-understanding can transform that experience into one of empowerment and belonging.In this episode, you'll hear about:• Autism, ADHD, and late self-discovery• Neurodivergent identity and unmasking• Being a queer neurodivergent woman• Representation and belonging• Self-advocacy and personal growth• Supporting neurodivergent students in higher education• Systemic barriers in academia• Building inclusive and affirming communities• Practicing self-kindness and self-acceptanceWhy This Conversation MattersMany neurodivergent people grow up feeling different without understanding why.Tamsyn's story highlights the importance of representation, community, and safe spaces where individuals can explore their identities without judgment. Her work encourages neurodivergent people to move away from self-criticism and toward self-understanding.About the GuestTamsyn Hawken is a mental health mentor who supports university students throughout the UK. Through mentoring, advocacy, and educational programs focused on self-advocacy and empowerment, she helps neurodivergent individuals build confidence, navigate challenges, and celebrate their authentic selves.Key TakeawayYou are not broken.You may simply be different by design.When we embrace our identities, practice self-kindness, and connect with supportive communities, we create space for belonging, growth, and authentic living.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone navigating their own journey of neurodivergent self-discovery.#Autism #ADHD #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent #Unmasking #SelfDiscovery #Belonging #QueerNeurodivergent #HigherEducation #SelfAdvocacy #TamsynHawken #NeurodiversityVoices #PodcastAbout The Neurodiversity Voices PodcastThe Neurodiversity Voices Podcast amplifies real voices, real stories, and real impact through conversations about autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, accessibility, inclusion, advocacy, education, employment, and lived experience.Hosted by Paul Cruz.Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.comInstagram • LinkedIn • YouTube:@neurodiversityvoicespodcastDisclaimer: This podcast shares educational content and personal perspectives and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, legal, or other advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.