From Stigma to Strength Dyslexia Stories from Black Professionals
Stigma around dyslexia isolates people and hides talent; representation and community are the levers that change that. This webinar centres lived experience, practical strategies, and the role of cultural belonging—with a special focus on how communities such as the Black community experience, resist, and reframe stigma.
Watch Donna's Webinar
Webinar Overview:
In this LinkedIn Live session, hosted during October’s Dyslexia Awareness and Black History Month, Donna talks with Keisha Swaby—a neurodiversity advocate, author, actress, and radio presenter.
The conversation explores Keisha’s personal journey with late-diagnosed dyslexia and dyspraxia, her advocacy work, and the importance of representation and community.
Keisha shares how her diagnosis transformed her life, empowered her to pursue higher education, and inspired her to write a book that challenges stigma and promotes neurodiversity, especially within the Black community.
Key Takeaways
- Empowerment Through Diagnosis and Advocacy
Keisha was diagnosed with severe dyslexia and dyspraxia at age 41 during her university studies. This late diagnosis was life-changing, enabling her to access support and embrace her identity. She now advocates for neurodiversity, emphasizing that these differences are strengths, not weaknesses. - Representation and Reclaiming Narratives
Keisha’s work, including her book Empowering Dyslexics: Blessed and Gifted, aims to shift the narrative around dyslexia—especially in the Black community—from shame to pride. She promotes the idea of neurodiversity as a superpower and stresses the importance of visibility and representation. - Community, Support, and Being Your Whole Self
The conversation highlights the value of finding your tribe and being your authentic self. Keisha encourages others to own their identity, seek support, and not shy away from disclosing challenges in the workplace or education. Her story underscores the importance of inclusive environments and the power of community.
Meet our Speaker
Donna Stevenson is Head of Training for neurobox. As Head of Training she develops and delivers high-quality neurodiversity Awareness Training and associated programs.
Donna started her career as a Nursery Nurse and a Primary School teacher where she developed a passion for supporting those learners with dyslexia. This then lead her to work for many years at the British Dyslexia Association (BDA).
Over the years at the BDA, she’s worked with children and adults with dyslexia; working within education and workplaces to raise awareness and champion the Dyslexia Friendly approach.
In 2022, she joined Succeed With Dyslexia (SWD) as Head of Training and Assessment, utilising her years of experience to create a global serviceShe continues her work supporting the community as a SWD Ambassador and a part of the ANND Coalition (Adult Network: Neurodiversity and Dyslexia), as well as SHADDA Local Dyslexia Association.
