Neuro-Inclusion in Public Participation
This is the beginning of an important conversation to deepen your understanding of the experiences of neurodivergent people to enhance your approach to engagement. Join us to gain valuable perspectives and actionable tips to create more inclusive spaces for individuals of all neurotypes. This webinar, led by two neurodivergent engagement professionals, will share the insights and experiences of their research journey to make engagement activities more neuro-inclusive.
Time Zones
- 01:00 pm - 02:15 pm Eastern
- 12:00 pm - 01:15 pm Central
- 11:00 pm - 12:15 pm Mountain
- 10:00 am - 11:15 pm Pacific
About the presenters:
Brittney Kroiss (she/they) is a skilled Engagement Data Analyst working in municipal government. She specializes in analyzing engagement data to inform strategic decisions that serve the public interest of a diverse and growing community. Brittney is a values-driven researcher, analyst, and improvement specialist with a passion for housing, community, accessibility, and improving health, quality of life, and sense of belonging for all, especially equity-deserving groups. Further, as a neurodivergent individual with AuDHD, she is committed to advancing neuro-inclusion efforts.
Before transitioning to local government, Brittney's work history included extensive work in housing as well as mental health, community development, and market research and trade relations. Her academic qualifications include a Post-Graduate Certificate in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology, and an Associate’s Degree in Global Stewardship.
Currently residing in Maple Ridge, B.C., Brittney enjoys exploring nature, continuous learning, and spending time with loved ones.
Kelly Guthrie (she/her) has worked in municipal government since 2007 and has defined her role as a community minded, collaborative and innovative pioneer in engagement and community development as well as a skilled facilitator. She is continuously involved in partnerships and community building in employment and volunteer work. Kelly co-authored the Guelph’s 2013 Community Engagement Framework and policy and participated in the 2023 review and Charter. She has planned and implemented public participation strategies for over 175 projects. Breaking down barriers to participation for all people has always been top of mind and her practice and training on equity, anti-racism and Indigenous engagement has been a focus that she has found to be incredibly rewarding. She recognizes and welcomes that there remains much to learn. Recently diagnosed with ADHD her awareness has grown to include breaking down barriers towards neuro-inclusion,
Kelly became an IAP2 Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3) in 2022 and received, as part of a team, the 2020 Core Values award for Extending the Practice through Creativity, Contribution & Innovation in the Field and the Canadian, Project of the Year for the project “A United vision: Guelph’s Community Plan”.
Kelly lives in Guelph and is passionate about food sovereignty, food system circularity, education, poverty reduction and community building.
