International Women’s Day (IWD) is a time to celebrate the achievements of women across the world and to continue advocating for gender equality. While discussions often focus on workplace rights, education, and social inclusion, one group that is frequently overlooked is neurodivergent women—those with conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other neurological differences.
At NeuroEmpowered, we are dedicated to providing practical resources and support to neurodivergent individuals, helping them navigate everyday challenges with confidence. This IWD, we want to highlight the incredible contributions of neurodivergent women throughout history and today, while also advocating for greater recognition and support to #AccelerateAction.
Historical Figures
Emily Dickinson (1830–1886)
One of the most famous poets in American history, Emily Dickinson is often speculated to have been neurodivergent; possibly autistic. Known for her reclusive nature and unconventional writing style, Dickinson’s ability to see the world differently allowed her to create poetry that continues to resonate today.
Virginia Woolf (1882–1941)
A pioneering modernist writer, Virginia Woolf is believed to have had bipolar disorder. Her unique literary style, which included stream-of-consciousness narration, reflected her deep introspection and perception of the world. Her work has left a lasting impact on literature and feminist thought.
Agatha Christie (1890–1976)
The best-selling novelist of all time, Agatha Christie, is suspected to have been dyslexic. Despite facing challenges with traditional learning methods, her extraordinary storytelling abilities allowed her to craft some of the most iconic mystery novels ever written.
Barbara McClintock (1902–1992)
A ground-breaking geneticist and Nobel Prize winner, Barbara McClintock is thought to have been autistic. Her ability to hyperfocus and think outside the box led to the discovery of ‘jumping genes’ (transposons), revolutionising genetics research.
Temple Grandin (b. 1947)
A renowned scientist and animal behaviour expert, Temple Grandin is one of the most well-known advocates for autism. Diagnosed with autism as a child, she has used her unique perspective to revolutionise the livestock industry, improve humane animal handling, and raise awareness about neurodiversity.
Modern Neurodivergent Women Making an Impact
Greta Thunberg (b. 2003)
A climate activist with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Greta Thunberg has redefined what it means to be a leader. She has spoken openly about how her neurodivergence helps her stay focused on climate justice, calling it her “superpower.”
Holly Smale (b. 1981)
Best known for her ‘Geek Girl’ book series, Holly Smale was diagnosed with autism as an adult. She has spoken about how her experiences growing up undiagnosed shaped her writing and how important representation of neurodivergent girls is in literature.
Dr. Camilla Pang (b. 1993)
A scientist and author, Dr. Pang was diagnosed with autism and ADHD as a child. Her book, Explaining Humans, won the Royal Society Science Book Prize and provides a unique perspective on human behaviour through the lens of neurodivergence.
Emma Watson (b. 1990)
The renowned actress and activist has openly spoken about her experiences with ADHD. Watson has used her platform to advocate for gender equality and education, highlighting how neurodivergent individuals can thrive in creative and academic fields.
Challenges and the Need for Change
Women with neurodivergence often experience additional barriers due to gender biases in medical research and social expectations. Many are diagnosed later in life compared to their male counterparts, meaning they often grow up without the right support. They may also face stigma in workplaces, relationships, and healthcare settings.
At NeuroEmpowered, we are committed to bridging this gap by offering practical guides, resources, and, in future, providing advocacy support to help neurodivergent individuals navigate daily life more easily. Whether it’s understanding workplace rights, accessing the right healthcare, or finding community support, our goal is to empower neurodivergent people to thrive. You can find our Resource Guides by clicking here.
How Can We Support Neurodivergent Women?
Increase awareness and education about neurodivergence in women, especially in medical and educational settings.
Promote inclusive workplaces that accommodate neurodivergent needs, such as flexible working environments and sensory-friendly spaces.
Amplify the voices of neurodivergent women by supporting their work, listening to their experiences, and advocating for policies that address their needs.
Provide accessible resources that help neurodivergent individuals navigate daily challenges with confidence. Explore our guides at NeuroEmpowered.
If you would like to learn more about how to support neurodiverse individuals, or you feel that you may like to learn more for yourself about any of the above, please visit our Resource Guides by clicking here.
If you would like to learn more about International Women's Day and how to get involved, please visit their website by clicking here.
On this International Women’s Day, let’s ensure that all women—including those who think, learn, and experience the world differently—are valued, heard, and empowered.
#IWD2025 #InternationalWomensDay #EmbraceEquity #AccelerateAction #WomensDay2025 #WomenEmpowerment #NeurodivergentWomen #NeurodiversityCelebration #AutismAcceptance #ADHDAwareness #DyslexiaPride #DyspraxiaAwareness #NeuroEmpowered #IncludeAllWomen #HiddenVoices #EquityForAll #WomenWhoLead #BreakTheBias #SupportNeurodivergence #AccessibleResources #ThrivingWithNeurodiversity #EmpowerNeurodivergentWomen #AdvocacyInAction
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