This full-day, strengths-based training offers a practical and culturally grounded introduction to Autism and Neurodivergence (e.g., Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder, learning differences) for those working in or alongside Indigenous communities. 
Grounded in the belief that all minds are sacred, this course emphasizes respectful, relationship-based ways of supporting Autistic and otherwise Neurodivergent children, youth, and adults. 
Participants will explore the core traits of Autistic and other Neurodivergent identities, including diverse ways of communicating, sensing, and relating. 
The training highlights trauma-assumed care, decolonial understandings of behaviour, and the importance of non-coercive, compassionate responses to distress. 
Through interactive discussions and community stories, this course builds knowledge, confidence, and culturally safe strategies for Neurodivergent individuals and their families and professionals in the community.
Key topics
Understanding the context: Autism & Neurodivergence in Indigenous Communities 
Core Traits through a Strengths-Based and Sensory-Informed Lens: 
		  a. Communication (non-speaking, AAC) 
		  b. Sensory processing, regulation, and nervous system 
Relational Approaches: Building Trust, Safety & Connection 
Decolonizing Behaviour: Trauma, Communication, and Compassionate Responses 
Honouring Indigenous Knowledge: Neurodivergence, Community, and Care Systems 
Co-Creating Solutions: Supporting Systems Change through Community Leadership (A future-facing module on policy, service gaps, and advocacy) 
 
This training affirms the sacredness of all ways of being. It empowers caregivers, community members, and professionals to walk alongside Neurodivergent individuals with compassion, cultural humility, and respect. 
Event will be held in Room SRYC 3240 at SFU Surrey.
Bursaries & Discounts
Bursaries
ACT is committed to ensuring equitable access to all our events. Bursaries are offered to mitigate financial barriers to registration. Full bursaries are specifically allocated for Indigenous individuals or those affiliated with organizations supporting Indigenous communities. We strongly encourage you to apply for bursaries promptly as funds are limited.
Apply by completing ACT’s 
Bursary Form 
by June 3, 2025 . If you identify as Indigenous, or work for an Indigenous organization, complete our 
Bursary Form for Indigenous Communities
.
Donate to our bursary fund.
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About the Presenters
Len Pierre (he/him)
Len Pierre is Coast Salish from Katzie (kate-zee) First Nation. Len is an award winning entrepreneur, professor, consultant, TEDx Speaker, social activist, change agent, & traditional knowledge sharer. He specializes in the development of educational programs and services with decolonization and reconciliation as its core values. Len holds a Masters degree in Education from Simon Fraser University focusing on Indigenous curriculum and instructional design. His experience includes Indigenous education and program leadership from various organizations across colonial Canada. He comes to us with an open heart and open mind, and hopes to be received in the same way.
Allison Balfour (she/her)
Allison is a dedicated advocate with over 15 years of experience in inclusive education, focusing on mental health and developmental disabilities. Her expertise is bolstered by her role as a parent to neurodivergent children, providing her with invaluable insights and empathy.
In her capacity as a member of the District Action Team for Autism in Surrey Schools, Allison served as a Practical Functional Assessment/Skill-based treatment implementation coach, offering essential support to students and educators alike. She also conducted Low-arousal training and collaborated with Intensive Intervention teams, integrating trauma-assumed approaches into educational practices.
Allison’s skill set encompasses teaching de-escalation techniques and facilitating social skills classes, enriching the learning environment for all students. Beyond the confines of the classroom, Allison is deeply committed to assisting families in navigating the complexities of various systems, including the Ministry, medical, and educational realms. She approaches this task as part of a multidisciplinary team, advocating tirelessly for her own neurodivergent children while supporting others in similar situations.
Donovan Sylvester (he/him)
Donovan Sylvester is a proud member of the Katzie First Nation. He has been immersed in the art of singing from a young age, thanks to the guidance of his teacher and grandfather, William Pierre. Throughout his life, he has performed at numerous significant events, including Orange Shirt Day, National Suicide Prevention Day, and various funerals and family gatherings. He cherishes the teachings imparted to him by his great-grandmother, Agnes Pierre, and his grandfathers, David Sylvester and Leonard Leon. His lineage extends to Port Alberni, where his late father hailed from, as well as Penelakut (formerly Kuper Island), located just outside Chemainus on Vancouver Island. For Donovan, singing is not merely a passion; it is his lifeline, and he pours his heart and soul into every performance.
Richard Pierre (he/him)
Richard Pierre, Sdemokeltel, is from Katzie First Nation on his fathers side, and Tsawout First Nation on his mothers side. Richard is an Elder and Cultural Advisor at Len Pierre Consulting. He enjoys sharing traditional Coast Salish family values, culture, beliefs, history, language, and contemporary issues. ​Richard has over 20 years of experience working in the education sector including public K-12, university, and professional training programs. He is passionate about making reconciliation a reality in this country and looks forward to helping the next generation transition into "walking together" like we should have been doing all along.
Information Source: ACT - Autism Community Training | eventbrite

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