My Autism Journey

Diagnosed at two, my autism journey has been a transformative odyssey of self-discovery, resilience, and determination. From overcoming early challenges to establishing Benderstar Digital, an autistic-owned business, every experience has shaped me into a passionate autism advocate.

From Challenges to Triumphs

Facing employment barriers sparked a purpose-driven venture, blending marketing expertise, artistic flair, and advocacy. Benderstar Digital celebrates autistic excellence, fosters inclusion, and challenges stereotypes through empowering products.

A Symbol of Empowerment

My journey demonstrates autism's unique perspective fuels creativity and innovation. Benderstar Digital inspires neurodiversity acceptance, empowering individuals, families, and promoting inclusive practices.

Well-Behaved Autistics Rarely Make History: Unlocking the Power of Autistic Women

The iconic phrase "Well-behaved women seldom make history" inspires those who refuse to accept the ordinary. Historian Laurel Thatcher Ulrich's 1976 article and 2007 book highlight the fate of conformists: obscurity. Those who challenge expectations and take risks leave a lasting mark.

Embracing Neurodiversity

"Well-behaved autistics rarely make history" celebrates autistic individuals defying conventional norms, embracing unique perspectives and strengths to create impact. By doing so, they pioneer innovations, forge new paths and reshape our world.

Breaking Stereotypes

As autistic women, we're familiar with being misunderstood and mislabeled. But what if our traits are strengths? Passion, persistence and attention to detail make us innovators, thinkers and change-makers.

Reclaiming Identity

We're not "brats" - we're pioneers, breaking barriers and pushing boundaries. We're not "difficult" - we're determined, refusing societal expectations.

Empowering Neurodiversity

By embracing differences, we unlock innovation, progress and become history-makers. Let's celebrate unique strengths and reclaim our identity.

Unlocking Potential

Autistic individuals can:

• Pioneer groundbreaking innovations

• Shatter stereotypes and overcome obstacles

• Design a more inclusive society

Autistic Women: Trailblazers

We're innovators, developing technologies and solutions. We're thinkers, analyzing systems and challenging assumptions. We're change-makers, advocating for justice and empowerment.

Benderstar Digital

An autistic and woman-owned business embodying "Well-behaved autistics rarely make history." We champion neurodiverse representation and inclusivity through Empowerment Through Purchase.

Join the Movement

Recognize neurodiversity's power and autistic women's contributions. Together, create a brighter future driven by inclusivity, innovation and progress.

Key Takeaways:

• Celebrate autistic women's strengths and contributions

• Break stereotypes and reclaim identity

• Embrace neurodiversity for innovation and progress

• Empower autistic individuals to become history-makers

Parents of autistic children often strive to prepare them for adulthood, but inadvertently perpetuate harmful expectations.

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The Unseen Potential of Neurodiverse Talent

Despite possessing exceptional strengths such as innovative problem-solving, enhanced analytical skills, attention to detail, and creative thinking, autistic individuals face staggering unemployment rates. A staggering 80-90% of autistic adults are unemployed or underemployed, with 85% of autistic college graduates jobless despite their academic achievements.

Breaking Down Systemic Barriers

The autism unemployment crisis is not a result of autism itself, but rather systemic barriers, stigma, and inadequate support fueled by societal biases and misconceptions. Discriminatory practices and lack of accommodation perpetuate these disparities, highlighting the need for inclusive solutions.

As we recognize Disability Employment Awareness Month, it's crucial to acknowledge the untapped potential of autistic individuals in the workforce. Despite possessing exceptional skills and qualifications, 80-90% of autistic people face unemployment. By embracing neurodiversity and promoting autism acceptance, we can tap into innovative thinking, foster a culture of inclusion, and unlock economic potential.

As an autistic entrepreneur, I've transformed my differences into a catalyst for success. My business, Benderstar Digital, serves as a platform for:

• Promoting autism acceptance and understanding

• Celebrating neurodiversity and its contributions

• Breaking down barriers for autistic entrepreneurs

• Providing resources and support for neurodivergent individuals

Through innovative products, education, and community-building, we empower autistic individuals, families, and caregivers, while promoting a culture of acceptance and inclusivity.

Join the Empowerment Through Purchase movement. With every purchase, you:

• Amplify autistic voices

• Promote autism acceptance and understanding

• Support inclusive business practices

• Empower autistic entrepreneurs and leaders

• Contribute to a more inclusive and accepting society

I transitioned from cheerleading flyer to basketball player, finding new passion and purpose. Despite being the only girl on the team, I adapted and thrived, eventually joining the Special Olympics and proving that size doesn't limit potential.