Neuropower World & Institute of Neurodiversity (ION) Join Forces

“We should not fit our life to the demands of social conformity; we can’t find a model to live by from others, we can only find that within ourselves.”

“We do not think of the neurodiversity movement as one that seeks to integrate neurominority people into all the existing ways of living in the world as a human being.”

“There is a certain way of being human that is our way. We want to be free to live our life in our way, and not in imitation of other’s life.”

Neuropower World & Institute of Neurodiversity (ION) Join Forces to Advance Global Neuroinclusion

Released: 02 Feb 2025

We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership between Neuropower World and the Institute of Neurodiversity (ION), two organizations committed to driving systemic change and fostering a more inclusive world for neurominorities.

About Neuropower World

A pioneering impact startup and social enterprise, Neuropower World drives diversity and inclusion. They empower neurominority individuals by leveraging their strengths in problem-solving and hyperfocus. Through consultancy, education, research, and media and entertainment, Neuropower advances the neurodiversity movement in MENA and APAC. They aim to create systemic change, proving diverse minds fuel innovation, investment, and inclusive growth.

Neuropower currently operates in Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong. Its founder, Hazleen Ahmad, is an impact leader, applied neuroscience researcher, and advocate for neurodiversity.  A mother to neurominority children, she bridges science and society to dispel neuromyths and drive inclusion.

“This is a global effort to recognise and celebrate the natural variations in how brains function, yet systemic barriers persist. By addressing these challenges through advocacy, inclusive policies, and education, we can unlock the immense potential of neurominorities, fostering innovation and creating a more equitable world.” shares, Hazleen Ahmad, Founder & CEO, Neuropower World

About the Institute of Neurodiversity (ION)

ION is a global membership organisation dedicated to advancing the inclusion, acceptance, and appreciation of neurominorities. With representation in nearly 40 countries, ION unites neurominorities and allies to drive systemic change through advocacy, education, and collaboration. As an official association of the United Nations Department of Global Communications, ION amplifies the voices of neurominority communities on the world stage, ensuring that neuroinclusion remains a global priority. Led by neurominorities, ION fosters a diverse and supportive network that empowers individuals, influences policy, and transforms societal perceptions of neurodiversity.

“This partnership between ION and Neuropower marks a significant step toward a more inclusive world where neurominority individuals are valued for their unique strengths. By combining ION’s global advocacy with Neuropower’s expertise in applied neuroscience, we are driving meaningful change in how organisations and societies understand and support neurodiversity. Together, we are not just raising awareness—we are creating real opportunities for neuroinclusion at every level.” — Charlotte Valeur, Founder & Chair, Institute of Neurodiversity (ION)

Our shared goal – Make neurominorities thrive by

  • Amplifying neurodiversity awareness and education through research, training, advocacy and media initiatives.
  • Shaping policy and systemic change by advocating for evidence-based, community-driven neuro-inclusion strategies.
  • Creating inclusive economic opportunities by connecting members, businesses, educators, and policymakers with neurominority talent.
  • Further globalising a movement in the APAC & MENA region where neurominority voices are heard, valued, and represented.

A Shared Vision with Complementary Strengths

Both organizations are united by a mission to empower neurominority individuals, proving that diverse minds drive innovation, investment, and inclusive growth. This partnership combines ION’s global experience, extensive network and knowledge with Neuropower World’s deep regional expertise in MENA and APAC, tech-focus and culture-driven approach to create systemic, lasting change.

Regional Expertise Meets Global Influence

This collaboration brings together Neuropower’s on-the-ground knowledge and cultural insights with ION’s international focus and high-level advocacy. By bridging grassroots initiatives with global best practices, we will ensure that neurominorities receive recognition and opportunities they deserve.This is more than a partnership—it is a strategic alliance that combines deep expertise and global leadership to create real change. Together, Neuropower World and ION are shaping a future where neurodiversity is recognised as an invaluable asset to society and the economy.

“Neuropower and ION becoming strategic partners marks another milestone in helping neurominorities thrive globally. Our shared vision and values are what brought us together, our different organisational priorities and cultural expertise create synergies which empower and advance neuroinclusion across all sectors and regions. Towards a more inclusive future where every single voice is appreciated and a world that is designed universally for all people. ” shares, Silvan Ruthenberg, Global Lead & Board Member

Stay connected as we roll out joint initiatives, events, and opportunities to get involved via our LinkedIn Channels – (14) Institute Of Neurodiversity (ION): Company Page Admin | LinkedIn and (14) Neuropower World: Overview | LinkedIn 

Silvan Ruthenberg, ION’s Global Lead & Hazleen Ahmad (Founder of Neuropower) in her office space in Expo City Dubai. (December 2024)

Above:: Silvan Ruthenberg, ION’s Global Lead & Hazleen Ahmad (Founder of Neuropower) in her office space in Expo City Dubai. (December 2024)

ION & Neuropower at Expo City Dubai (December 2024) From left: Hazleen Ahmad, Selma Turki, Phoenix Yip, Albert Hui, Silvan Ruthenberg, Razanne Abdallah, Ipshita Sen and Safiah Hussein

Above: ION & Neuropower at Expo City Dubai (December 2024). From left: Hazleen Ahmad, Selma Turki, Phoenix Yip, Albert Hui, Silvan Ruthenberg, Razanne Abdallah, Ipshita Sen and Safiah Hussein

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