Hi, I'm a creative; this is how I identify myself. I work in the field of photography, and showing you my work would be worth a thousand words, but that's another story. Here are some other boxes I could easily check: French, late 30s, expat in Portugal, foodie, movie geek, in a relationship, art lover, city rat, coffee drinker. But, like many neurodivergent people, I don't like boxes. So, to tell you a bit more about me and to give you a feel of who I am, here are a bunch of random things that I very much like: weird people, the color red, vintage 60s and 70s interior design, peanut butter, the smell of violets and bitter almonds, Turkish psychedelic music, body horror movies, being barefoot, and my black cat. Here are some things that I hate: white walls with cold ceiling spotlights, cherries, loud chaotic places. To whomever is reading this, I hope you're having a wonderful day!
HOW DO YOU EMBRACE DIVERSITY AND/OR UNCONVENTIONALITY?
I am part of a neurodivergent worldwide online group called the Octopus Movement. As one of the founding members, I aim to raise awareness of non-neurotypical ways of operating, thinking, and being. Our mission is to create a more inclusive world, support one another, and offer creative solutions to longstanding problems. I believe the world would be a better place if we celebrated each other's uniqueness.
HOW DO YOU EXPRESS YOURSELF CREATIVELY?
Creativity has always been the heartbeat of my work and my life. Though I am primarily a photographer, it's paradoxical that vision is my least dominant sense due to my aphantasia. This unique condition, where I cannot visualize images mentally, compels me to perceive and capture the world differently, focusing on emotions, stories, and details that others might overlook. For me, creativity isn't confined to photography; it permeates every aspect of my life, enriching my experiences and interactions in unexpected ways.
HOW DO YOU THINK YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE TO THE COMMUNITY? WHAT DO YOU FEEL YOU ARE AN EXPERT IN AND COULD GIVE ADVICE TO THE COMMUNITY ON?
Raising awareness of neurodiversity, especially among women who are often underdiagnosed and face unique struggles, is a mission close to my heart. By highlighting these issues, I aim to foster a more inclusive community that recognizes and celebrates diverse neurological profiles. Together, we can create a world where no one is left behind, regardless of their neurological differences.
SHARE A VERY VALUABLE INSIGHT YOU DERIVE FROM YOUR PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE WITH THE WORLD: