Neurodiversity employability and the Ubuntu paradigm for inclusive employment

Neurodiversity is increasingly recognised worldwide, and with it a growing acknowledgment of the human rights of neurodivergent individuals. Despite this progress, real access to inclusive education and meaningful employment remains limited. Many neurodivergent people struggle to enter education, transition through it successfully, and move into the workforce. Even when they secure employment, they often face challenges with workplace inclusion, sustaining employment, and navigating environments not designed with their needs in mind.

Workplace discrimination continues to be a major concern. High unemployment rates remain a persistent issue, and stigma often discourages individuals from disclosing their neurodivergent status. This lack of disclosure can further hinder access to the accommodations and supports needed to thrive at work. Neurodivergent individuals may experience sensory and cognitive overload, as well as anxiety or depression, particularly in traditional job settings that don’t align with their strengths.

Improving employability is essential. Beyond formal education, developing key employability skills can help neurodivergent people access and maintain work. Career development for neurodivergent individuals is complex, and many are not natural self-advocates. Career pathways should therefore be designed to highlight and build on their strengths, interests, and passions. Rather than steering neurodivergent individuals into stereotypical roles, career guidance should open pathways that recognise talent, uniqueness, and diversity.

Neuropsychology, although established in the 1940s, is still evolving and has not yet fully addressed the needs of neurodivergent communities. As the field of neurodiversity grows rapidly, neuropsychology has an important role to play in informing effective career guidance and support.

The Ubuntu philosophy offers a meaningful framework for inclusion. Rooted in the idea of shared humanity and collective wellbeing, the Ubuntu paradigm promotes inclusive environments that support neurodivergent employees, employers, and colleagues. By applying Ubuntu principles, organisations can move toward genuinely inclusive workplaces that ensure equal access to employment opportunities and recognise the contributions of neurodivergent individuals.

Recruitment policies and workplace practices must address the ongoing disadvantage faced by neurodivergent jobseekers. Pro-inclusion companies should prioritise equitable hiring, reduce structural barriers, and foster environments where all employees can succeed.

This webinar invites conversation on neurodivergent employment, workplace inclusion, and the practical application of the Ubuntu paradigm. It aims to deepen understanding, challenge assumptions, and encourage organisations to create workplaces where neurodivergent individuals can fully participate, contribute, and thrive.

Key learning outcomes:

Participation on this webinar will allow participants be able to:

• evaluate concepts of neurodiversity employability, inclusive employment and Ubuntu paradigm

• apply employability skills in neurodiversity career guidance services

• communicate inclusive employment principles from Ubuntu paradigm

Presenter: Professor Maximus Monaheng Sefotho

Professor Maximus Monaheng Sefotho is a Full Professor in the Department of Educational Psychology (with a specialisation/focus on Career Guidance and Disability) at University of Johannesburg. His research and teaching work focus on Career Choice/Construction within the sphere of Contemporary Careers: Protean and Boundaryless as well as hephapreneurship (A concept he coined). He contributed to the development of the competency framework for career development practitioners in South Africa. He is currently the Chairperson of the South African Career Development Association (SACDA) and a Director for the Centre of Neurodiversity. Prof. Sefotho supports the Career Development Unit of the Department of Higher Education and Training in South Africa.

This webinar forms part of the CICA International Webinar Series February Free Month, offering free access to contemporary global perspectives in career development throughout February.