ADEF established its Inclusion and Diversity Unit in 2019 when the team worked with the Egyptian Autistic Society to prepare the summer camp for hosting our first neurodiverse participant. We documented and evaluated the experience which helped us see the immensely positive impact, especially technically and socially. After the 2019 camp, the Inclusion and Diversity Unit worked on developing a training curriculum to have qualified trainers in digital expression working with neurodiverse teens. The first round of training was done in May 2020 for twenty trainers, of which four were selected to run the spring program in 2022 where 5 neurodiverse teens attended. Two of those participated in ADEF’s summer camps 2022 and the results were extremely positive and we are currently expanding our work based on this success.

Furthermore, participants will take advantage of ADEF Learning methodology where we explore what they enjoy and utilize that to develop their skills. After two months of the workshops, we develop a tailored program for each participant. Since the learning process includes the effort of parents, the program coordinator will follow up with the parents to assure the outcomes have been met.