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The first-ever Cayman Islands Autism and Neurodevelopment Symposium took place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at John Gray High School, bringing together a diverse group of educators, medical professionals, families, and advocates to explore critical issues surrounding neurodiversity under the theme "Supporting Neurodiverse Persons Throughout the Lifespan."

The symposium showcased a full day of engaging presentations, storytelling by teachers, parents, and autistic students, thought-provoking discussions, and networking opportunities aimed at deepening understanding and fostering lasting change for individuals on the autism spectrum and those with other neurodevelopmental differences.

The event kicked off with a warm welcome from the John Gray High School Leadership Team, with Rayne Harding, Head Boy, leading the way by offering the National Song and opening remarks. Kameron Knight, a student on the autism spectrum, shared a heartfelt account of his journey, providing a personal perspective that set the tone for the day. Victoria Carvalho, Deputy Head Girl, briefly addressed the importance of community engagement in supporting neurodiverse individuals.

The event’s proceedings were led by Desirée Powery-Tatum, the President of Autism Cayman, who emphasized the importance of awareness, understanding, and acceptance in driving change within communities. Attendees were able to engage in lively discussions and hear from experts on a wide range of topics related to neurodiversity.

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation by Dr. Stenette Davis, Consultant Psychiatrist at the Department of Behavioural Health at Health Services Authority / Alex's Place, who addressed the unique ways in which autism shapes behaviour. This was followed by a captivating teacher interview video, comparing educational curricula and how they can be adapted to better support neurodiverse students.

The symposium also featured discussions on a variety of support strategies, such as Unboxing Learning, led by Deniece Williams, Deputy Principal at The Lighthouse School, and Rachael Gaunt, Occupational Therapist at The Lighthouse School. The presentation provided valuable insights into different learning models and approaches tailored to neurodiverse students.

A collaborative art project “Painted by Everyone” allowed persons to create together on a single canvas which will be showcased at Autism Cayman’s “Expression Beyond Words” Art Exhibition on 25 May 2025 that aims to give young people who are autistic or neurodiverse an opportunity to showcase their unique and creative talents.

After the lunch break, attendees explored the pivotal role of music therapy in supporting neurodiverse individuals, in an interactive session delivered by Georgi-Ann Morgan, Music Therapist at the Department of Education Services.

Proceedings continued with Dr. Stephanie Edwards, an Educational Psychologist at the Department of Education Services, who focused on the unique challenges and experiences faced by girls on the autism spectrum in her session, "She's on the Spectrum Too: Rethinking Autism in Girls." This session followed insightful student interviews, providing attendees with a firsthand understanding of the feelings and experiences of neurodiverse students.

The day culminated in a session on post-school transitions, with Sloane Pharr, Behaviour Analyst at The Wellness Centre, leading a discussion on what happens after school for neurodiverse individuals. This was followed by Delroy Watson, Inclusion Facilitator at Inclusion Cayman, who presented on the natural pathways to employment for neurodiverse individuals and how to support them in the workforce.

The symposium concluded with heartfelt closing remarks from Latonya Garnes, Behaviour Support Service Manager at Cayman Islands Support Services, who underscored the importance of continued advocacy and support for neurodiverse individuals.

The inaugural Cayman Islands Autism and Neurodevelopment Symposium was a resounding success, with a shared commitment to raising awareness and creating lasting change for individuals on the autism spectrum and other neurodiverse persons.

“We couldn’t have put this event on without the support of our key partners, the Health Services Authority, The Lighthouse School, John Gray High School, and the Department of Education Services,” said Secretary and Director of Autism Cayman Ally Olarou, “We are also incredibly grateful to the sponsors of our inaugural Symposium for making this event possible.”

The event was made possible through the generous support of the Cayman Islands Community, including sponsors like Aspire Therapeutic Services, Highvern, Kirk Market, The Speech Studio, Trident Properties Group, Boyz2Men, and various local organizations.

For more information about the symposium or to learn how you can support neurodiversity in the Cayman Islands, please visit Autism Cayman’s www.autism.ky.

For more information or to access videos of the event content, please follow Autism Cayman on social media or visit www.autism.ky/symposium2025