Brilliant Women. Different Brains. Celebrating International Women's Day 🥳

International Women’s Day is a moment to recognise the achievements and contributions of women across all walks of life.

This International Women's Day, the AuDHD Council of Australia is celebrating the contribution of women with co-occurring Autism and ADHD across the Australian workforce (and everywhere else of course!).

Women with AuDHD bring unique perspectives and talents that enrich workplaces in ways that often go overseen, including bringing strategic insight, creative thinking, deep focus and systems-level analysis to their roles. Many have built successful careers before receiving formal diagnosis; often navigating complex environments with relative ease.

A focused woman organising her workspace with colorful notes and a laptop

The AuDHD Council's 2026 campaign, "Brilliant Women. Different Brains." focuses on recognising these strengths and encouraging practical workplace design that supports sustainable performance.

Understanding AuDHD in the workplace

AuDHD refers to individuals who have both autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Women with AuDHD often experience the world differently, with a blend of traits from both conditions. This combination can create unique strengths such as intense focus, creativity, and problem-solving skills, alongside challenges like sensory sensitivities and difficulties with organisation or social interactions.

In the workplace, these women may:

• Excel in roles requiring deep concentration and innovative thinking.

• Bring fresh perspectives to team projects.

• Struggle with traditional office environments that do not accommodate their needs.

  
  

Recognising these traits helps employers and colleagues create supportive spaces where women with AuDHD can thrive.

Unique strengths

Those with AuDHD often have a remarkable ability to hyperfocus on tasks they are passionate about. This intense concentration can lead to high-quality work and innovative solutions. Their brains process information differently, which can result in creative approaches that others might overlook.

Some strengths include:

• Detail-oriented thinking: AuDHD individuals may notice patterns and details others miss.

• Creative problem-solving: Their unique perspective can lead to out-of-the-box ideas.

• Resilience: Managing both autism and ADHD requires adaptability and strength.

  
  

Challenges faced at work

Despite their strengths, women with AuDHD often face obstacles that can stunt their success. These challenges stem from workplace environments that are rarely designed with neurodiversity in mind.

Common difficulties include:

• Sensory overload: Bright lights, loud noises, or busy spaces can be overwhelming.

• Executive functioning struggles: Tasks like time management, prioritising, and organising can be difficult.

• Social communication: Navigating workplace social norms and unwritten rules may cause stress.

• Misunderstanding and stigma: Colleagues or supervisors frequently misinterpret behaviors or underestimate abilities.

Creating supportive workplaces

Employers and coworkers can take practical steps to support these women, helping them reach their full potential.

Key strategies include:

• Clear communication: Using direct, explicit instructions avoids confusion.

• Flexible work arrangements: Options like remote work or adjustable hours can reduce stress linked with overstimulation in a loud office setting.

• Quiet spaces: Providing calm areas helps manage sensory overload

• Task management tools: Digital planners or checklists assist with organization.

• Training and awareness: Educating teams about neurodiversity fosters empathy and inclusion.

Structured communication, defined expectations and accessible adjustment pathways benefit not only neurodivergent women but entire teams.

Moving Forward: How you can support women with AuDHD

International Women’s Day is an opportunity to move beyond awareness towards practical action. When workplaces recognise cognitive diversity as a strength, leadership expands and productivity follows.

Consider these actions:

• Listen actively to their experiences and needs.

• Encourage open conversations about neurodiversity.

• Advocate for policies that support flexible work and accommodations.

• Celebrate successes publicly to raise awareness.

• Educate yourself and others about autism and ADHD.

  
  

By doing so, you contribute to a culture of respect and opportunity.

Different brains contribute differently. Workplaces can be designed accordingly.