Spotlight on: Danielle Cudjoe-Michalski

As part of our Neurodiversity Celebration Week we’re shining a spotlight on the diverse voices within our community. Hear from different voices as they share their proudest moments, exchange tips and tricks for the workplace and discuss their strengths and challenges!

Introducing…

Hi I’m Danielle Cudjoe-Michalski

Founder of ‘Thinking Light Coach‘, certified Neurodiverse coach, consultant and TEDx speaker.

I am female, Black, a scientist, a project manager, and dyslexic, with each aspect shaping my unique identity and contributing to the brilliance that defines who I am.

Danielle Cudjoe-Michalski - a lady with dark hair in white shirt

What are your strengths and challenges?

Though I face the hurdles of procrastination and mental fatigue, which hinder my reading and writing abilities, I harness remarkable strengths: the ability to forge deep connections, ignite inspiration through my words, and harbour profound empathy for others. These qualities empower me to stand as an extraordinary coach and leader, defying limitations and shaping a brighter tomorrow.

What are your top tips or tricks for the workplace?

I am deeply committed to utilising assistive technology to overcome procrastination and spark creativity.

However, I firmly believe that coaching and mentoring offer the most impactful support. This belief led me to become a neurodiverse coach, where I’ve witnessed first-hand the transformative power it holds for my clients in all aspects of their lives, especially in the workplace.

Here are my top tips: leverage AI tools to break down tasks and gain momentum, provide coaching for neurodiverse employees to help them implement effective strategies, and offer guidance to managers on supporting their teams.

Additionally, I advocate for mentoring and reverse mentoring to navigate workplace culture and provide valuable insights.

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Your proudest moment

Among the most defining moments of my career stands the honour of being awarded for my role as Project Manager in vaccine development, not once but twice, alongside receiving a prestigious Diversity & Inclusion award for leading and championing a neuro-inclusive workplace culture.

Amidst the backdrop of new diagnoses, chronic illness, and mental fatigue/burnout, I navigated these challenges with resilience.

Through transformative coaching and mentoring, I unearthed invaluable insights into my strengths, values, and effective strategies to navigate my career.

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Thinking Light Coach

Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn 

Danielle is a Project Manager and founder of ‘Thinking Light Coach’, who also served as co-founder and co-lead of the Neurodiversity Network (NDN) at GSK.  In her role at NDN, Danielle spearheads initiatives to empower neurodiverse individuals within the organisation. Danielle’s mission is to create a space where neurodiverse people feel not only empowered but actively leverage their unique cognitive strengths.  Her expertise in neurodiversity spans multiple domains: certified as an ICF ACC coach, consultant, TEDx speaker, and trainer.  Leveraging her extensive 18-year corporate career and personal experience as a neurodiverse individual,  Danielle supports individuals, facilitates groups, and offers invaluable insights to organisations seeking to create a more neuro-inclusive workplace culture.

 

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