Founder’s Story 

Kelly Wiseman: A Journey of Empowerment, Advocacy, and Career Development

Kelly Wiseman is the heart and soul of Autistic GEM. As a dedicated AuDHDer (Autistic ADHD and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) and Spoonie, Kelly's journey is deeply personal, marked by her experiences as both a mother and a professional in the field of developmental education. Her lived experience as a mother of three AuDHD (Autistic and ADHD) children drives her passion for creating an inclusive and empowering environment for Autistic (neurodivergent) Women and their families.

Kelly's journey with autism began at home, navigating the complexities and joys of raising neurodivergent children. Her insights are not just theoretical; they are drawn from real-world experience. As a Registered Developmental Educator with the Developmental Educators Australia Inc (DEAI), Kelly specialises in understanding the impacts of disability and advocating for clients to access opportunities equal to those available to everyone else.

A Personal and Professional Journey

Kelly's life has been a testament to resilience and growth. Diagnosed with ADHD and a learning impairment consistent with dyslexia at 21, and later with autism, she has navigated the complexities of neurodivergence both personally and professionally. Kelly holds a Bachelor of Inclusive Education and Disability Studies and a Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies, alongside a robust professional background in disability and early childhood development. Her journey led her to establish Autistic GEM, driven by her vision of creating a space where families could find comprehensive, personalised assistance tailored to their unique needs.

Supporting Transitions Through Motherhood

As a mother of three neurodivergent children, Kelly understands the intricacies of parenting, working, and living as an autistic woman. Her goal is to support other autistic mothers to navigate the various stages of motherhood, helping them understand their diagnoses, develop strategies to overcome barriers, and learn to balance capacity versus capability. Kelly is passionate about empowering mothers to create the life they desire for themselves and their families.

Empowering Through Business and Career Development

Kelly’s expertise extends beyond developmental education into the realms of individual and business coaching. She is passionate about supporting autistic women in their career and entrepreneurial endeavours. Kelly helps her clients explore their diagnoses, understand the impacts on their lives, and develop the skills necessary to overcome barriers and maximise their potential. Whether through personal development or business coaching, Kelly is dedicated to helping women achieve their career goals and thrive in their professional lives.

A Developmental Educator with a Unique Perspective

A Developmental Educator is an allied health professional specialising in understanding the impacts of disability and supporting clients to access the same opportunities as others. Kelly’s lived experience as an AuDHDer and her professional background uniquely position her to provide empathetic and effective support. She focuses on areas such as understanding diagnosis, executive function skills, social and emotional development, emotional regulation, and managing life transitions.

Creating a Life of Empowerment and Advocacy

At Autistic GEM, Kelly's dedication to advocacy and empowerment is reflected in every service offered. She believes in the power of connection and community, encouraging clients to find their "tribe" and build supportive networks. Her personal journey and professional expertise make her uniquely equipped to guide families towards independence and fulfilment.