How might we increase awareness of neurodiversity in the workplace by fostering empathy toward neurodivergent individuals?
Neurodiversity Awareness is a personal initiative started by a co-founder of Anotasi, shaped by lived experiences of navigating dyslexia in professional environments. In Indonesia—particularly within the tech industry—neurodiversity is often discussed only in relation to children, leaving adults largely unseen. Stigma remains strong, support systems are minimal, and existing awareness efforts struggle to meaningfully engage employers.
The project emerged from a need to reframe neurodiversity in the workplace—not as a limitation to manage, but as a human experience to understand. We collaborated with neurodiversity advocates and Project Lima to share knowledge and open conversations around neurodivergent experiences at work.
Designing for Empathy, Not Assumptions
To understand what it feels like to be autistic or dyslexic in the workplace, we conducted interviews with neurodivergent individuals, experts, and tech workers. These conversations revealed the limits of viewing neurodiversity solely through medical or social models. Instead, we adopted a more holistic understanding—one that centers lived experience, structural barriers, and individual agency.
Based on these insights, we developed the creative direction for the campaign under the theme “Unleash the Hidden Beauty of Neurodivergent.” The direction focused on shifting perspectives, from deficit to possibility, inviting audiences to see neurodiversity beyond stigma and limitation. We collaborated with Project Lima, who translated this creative brief into a visually rich and interactive website. Their work brought the concept to life through thoughtful interactions and aesthetics, and the website went on to receive multiple international design awards.
Alongside the website, the campaign was supported by learning resources and online events. It reached over 10,000 people, sparked conversations across media platforms in Indonesia, and contributed to growing awareness and acceptance of neurodiversity in the workplace.
