Getting loud about ADHD & Dyslexia
The day brought together over 150 people - parents, educators, medical professionals, specialists, advocates, and
community leaders - in a shared mission to build understanding, promote inclusion, and celebrate neurodiversity across the Virgin Islands. This included 15 attendees from Virgin Gorda. We are proud that our event enabled all educators in attendance to earn professional development hours and throughout the day participants were able to focus on their wellbeing by receiving free mini massages from Elegant Holistic Spa.
The symposium opened with a moving prayer from Apostle Curnal Fahie followed by an engaging presentation from Dr. Jardine Torno on “The Changing Face of ADHD: From Childhood Signs to Adult Realities.” A morning panel — “Perspectives on ADHD: Is ADHD Just an Excuse for Bad Behaviour?” — featured Dr. Josephine Claxton-Richardson, Apostle Fahie, Dr. Torno and Dr. Mike Turnbull.
Our breakout sessions provided rich opportunities for learning and dialogue:
- Play Therapy and Supporting ASD Learning and Development — led by Dr. Josephine Claxton-Richardson, Rosemarie Munroe, and Dr. Cynthia Grenyion, explored the power of play in supporting growth and connection with neurodiverse children.
- Seeing Through a Different Lens: Understanding Dyslexia — with Tilly Bruce, Kate Mallin, and Otrisha John-Prescott, built empathy for dyslexic learners and shared practical classroom strategies.
- ADHD and Me: Just Getting Through the Day — with Dr. Rylene Lobaton Marijuan, Crystal Estridge, and Latoya Brown, gave voice to lived experience and daily resilience.
A virtual presentation from Chester Lakatoo on Dyslexia Screening and Classroom Support preceded an honest discussion on “Navigating Challenges in Our World” with Dr. Connie George and TyJenica Maduro-George, focusing on real solutions for neurodiverse families.
Afternoon chats featured Micah Hall (ADHD in the Workplace) and Dr. Josephine Claxton-Richardson (Supporting Mental Health in Neurodiverse Individuals and Their Caregivers), each of whom emphasized understanding, self-compassion, and inclusion.
“I was honoured to be asked by Simone to contribute to this ground-breaking event which helped to spread awareness and understanding of the ways that employers can support and take advantage of employees with ADHD.” – Micah Hall – Lawyer
The day closed with “Speaking Kind Words to Ourselves and Our Dyslexic Thinkers” — a heartfelt panel with Kate Mallin, Latoya Brown, Otrisha John-Prescott, and Marsha Pemberton, encouraging empathy in every home and classroom.
Speakers and attendees alike commented on the improvements in the services available inthe BVI for neurodivergent children and families over the past few years, with many feeling hopeful about further progress in the future.
“As a parent of an ADD child, and a stepsister to my neurodivergent brother, God allowed this experience to help me care for and nurture my students. Is it easy, no. Do I have off days, yes. However, as a teacher with 27 years of experience... Today I stand as a principal, still advocating for children that are neurodivergent. We all fit together, even with our flaws.” - Alfreda Gordon-Wheatley – Principal, Agape Total Life Academy.
Finally, we thank our attendees, volunteers, partners, and sponsors for their ongoing belief in our mission to build inclusive, supportive environments for neurodiverse individuals and their families. Together, we are changing the conversation and creating brighter futures across the Virgin Islands.
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