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Embracing different with Chloe Hayden

  • Blog
  • 4 min read
  • Posted July 2024
Neurodiversity with Chloe Hayden, created by Justin Chia

We all have a sparkle - never let anyone dull it.

In a burst of celebration for Neurodiversity Awareness Week and Respect at Uni Week, Deakin Residential Services (DRS) teamed up with Deakin University’s DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) crew to throw an epic event: Neurodiversity with Chloé Hayden. Picture this: a glittering showcase of advocacy that rocked the house, underscoring our pledge to champion inclusivity and embrace diversity, especially for our neurodivergent community at Deakin Res. 

Chloé Hayden, our powerhouse VIP, isn't just an award-winning actor, author, speaker, and disability advocate superhero. She's also a real-life wonder, diagnosed with autism at 13 and ADHD by 21. Her journey of self-discovery has sparked a global movement that knows no borders, stirring change and rallying for a world where everyone's greatness can shine. 

You might recognise Chloé from Netflix’s Heartbreak High where she played the character Quinni —Australia’s trailblazing autistic actress, setting the stage for authentic representation. And boy, did she light up our Waurn Ponds Campus (and online audience), charming over 350 curious minds. Teaghan Menhenett, our very own DRS resident and former RL, steered the ship as MC and made herself and everyone in the room and online, proud.  

Through laughter and insight, Chloé peeled back the curtain on neurodiversity, painting a picture of life that was part adventure, part fairy tale, and all heart. She shattered stereotypes, showing us that we all have a sparkle and to never let anyone dull it. And her battle cry?

Be your own hero, write your own story, and flaunt what makes you unique—because if the world isn’t created for you, there is no reason why you can’t create your own world.

Chloe Hayden

But Chloé's magic wasn't just for the neurodiverse; it was a wake-up call for us all. Diversity isn't a buzzword; it's the fabric that binds us all together and makes our world so beautiful. Whether you're wired like Einstein or dance to your own beat, you're part of a grand tapestry and you belong. 

In the end, Chloé didn't just inspire; she ignited a revolution of self-acceptance and empowerment. As one attendee put it,

[Chloé] inspired me to really embrace being autistic and actually showing it and not hiding it or pretending I am someone who I am not” 

Deakin University’s DEI team deserves a special thanks, partnering with us to deliver this stellar flagship event that we hope to use as a catalyst for further programming at all our campuses, year on year.  

So here's to Deakin, where inclusion isn't a box to tick but the heart of who we are—a place where everyone's story is celebrated, respected, and cherished. 

Please enjoy a snapshot of this wonderful event in this video.  

Written by

Profile photo of author Gel Klein-Boonschate
Gel Klein-Boonschate Senior Officer, Future Resident Engagement

Gel Kleinboonschate is the Senior Officer, Future Resident Engagement. Having worked in the Student Accommodation industry for nearly 8 years, specialising in student engagement and experience, Gel is passionate about ensuring all residents feel a sense of value and belonging.

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