22-25 April 2026 
SQLBits 2023
Being Brilliantly Bonkers: Neurodiversity, mental health, & inclusion
1 in 7 people are neurodivergent: our brains are wired differently and we experience the world in unusual ways. The same applies for many people with long term mental health challenges. In this session I'll share practical steps you can take to build an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive, learn, and be their authentic selves
1 in 7 people are neurodivergent: our brains are wired differently and we experience the world in unusual ways. The same applies for many people with long term mental health challenges. Building a culture where everyone can thrive takes work, but the rewards are immense. Everyone - at every level - can contribute.
In this session:
- I'll share my story - I'm a neurodivergent woman in a senior tech & data role
- We'll talk about what inclusion really means and why it helps everyone
- I'll share real examples of the superpowers - and the kryptonite - of long term mental health conditions and neurodiversity
- We'll spend time on practical and simple steps you can take to build an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive, learn, and be their authentic selves
There will be an opportunity for questions and facilitated discussion with other attendees.
No prior knowledge is required.
In this session:
- I'll share my story - I'm a neurodivergent woman in a senior tech & data role
- We'll talk about what inclusion really means and why it helps everyone
- I'll share real examples of the superpowers - and the kryptonite - of long term mental health conditions and neurodiversity
- We'll spend time on practical and simple steps you can take to build an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive, learn, and be their authentic selves
There will be an opportunity for questions and facilitated discussion with other attendees.
No prior knowledge is required.
Speakers
Sarah Francis's previous sessions
Being Brilliantly Bonkers: Neurodiversity, mental health, & inclusion
1 in 7 people are neurodivergent: our brains are wired differently and we experience the world in unusual ways. The same applies for many people with long term mental health challenges. In this session I'll share practical steps you can take to build an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive, learn, and be their authentic selves
Maximising everyone's super powers - Panel discussion
In this panel we will discuss approaches with leaders in the field who have first hand experience of managing neurodiversity in the work place. Welcome questions from the audience as to how everyone can maximise their and their teams super powers
Talk data to me: How to tell compelling stories to non-technical people
Over the last 10 years, and especially in the last two, the data landscape of businesses has fundamentally changed. Good data science and engineering can help commercial results explode, and deliver outstanding return on investment. However, it’s not always easy. If you’ve ever seen someone’s eyes glaze over when you start a technical presentation, or you’re struggling to communicate the value of what you’re delivering, this session is for you.