Top 10 Inspiring Speakers for Autism Acceptance Month 2025

Autism Acceptance Month is observed every April to increase understanding and acceptance of those on the autism spectrum, while also promoting a more inclusive society. In recognition of this important month, we’ve compiled a list of 10 keynote speakers who are leading the charge in raising awareness and advocating for change.

Why is it Important to Celebrate Autism Acceptance Month?

Autism Acceptance Month is important because it helps raise awareness about autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a diverse group of conditions that affect brain development. With over one in 100 people being autistic, this month provides an opportunity to highlight the challenges and strengths of individuals on the autism spectrum. In the UK alone, there are at least 700,000 autistic children and adults. By promoting understanding and acceptance, Autism Acceptance Month encourages a more inclusive society where individuals with autism can thrive and reach their full potential.

Sources: World Health Organization & National Autistic Society

Who are the Official Top 10 Speakers for Autism Acceptance Month 2025?

This exclusive list of speakers has been selected based on their extensive contributions to 58 events in 2024 and 2025, focusing on mental health, neurodiversity, and autism awareness. Their expertise and passion for promoting understanding and inclusion make them key voices in advocating for positive change in these important areas.

• Michael Barton
• Ellie Middleton
• Kelly Grainger
• Melanie Sykes
• Rachel Morgan-Trimmer
• Charlie Hart
• Sara-Louise Ackrill
• John-Dylan Haynes
• Hester Grainger
• Matt Gupwell

1. Michael Barton

Michael Barton is an expert speaker and consultant on autism, neurodiversity, and Asperger’s syndrome, making him an outstanding choice for Autism Acceptance Month. Autistic himself, Michael has spent over a decade using his personal experience to help others understand and harness their strengths. Michael has spoken at hundreds of events, featured on BBC, Channel 4, and The New Scientist, and delivered a renowned TEDxOxford talk. He has also authored three books on autism and sold over 15,000 copies. As a patron of the CASPA charity, Michael is dedicated to supporting young autistic people. His ability to break down barriers and create inclusive environments makes him a perfect speaker for raising autism awareness and fostering acceptance.

Michael Barton’s Official Speaking Topics:

• Focus on the Positive Aspects of Being Autistic
• Autism and Neurodiversity in the Workplace
• Making the Most of Autism for Teachers and Parents
• Why Different is Cool

2. Ellie Middleton

Ellie Middleton is a powerful speaker for Autism Acceptance Month, offering a personal and inspiring perspective on neurodivergence. Diagnosed with autism and ADHD later in life, Ellie’s journey of self-discovery has made her a sought-after advocate for neurodivergent individuals. As the founder of (un)masked, Ellie has created a supportive space for others navigating similar diagnoses. Her TEDx talk, “Why an autism diagnosis is an invitation to finally be yourself,” and collaborations with brands like LinkedIn and Google, showcase her ability to educate, inspire, and help neurodivergent individuals reach their full potential in both personal and professional life.

3. Kelly Grainger

Kelly Grainger is a passionate advocate for neurodiversity, offering invaluable insights as an autistic individual with ADHD. Diagnosed later in life, Kelly’s 23-year corporate career with major companies like PepsiCo and News International laid the foundation for his current work as a keynote speaker and trainer. Co-founder of Perfectly Autistic, Kelly helps businesses foster inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals. He has spoken at prestigious events such as The Autism Show and collaborated with leading organisations like Heathrow Express and Mind. Featured in publications like the Financial Times and BBC Radio, Kelly is a dynamic voice for autism awareness and workplace inclusivity.

Kelly Grainger’s Official Speaking Topics:

• Being Diagnosed Autistic as an Adult
• Autism in General- Being the Parent of Autistic Children
• Using Neurodiverse Friendly Principles in the Workplace to Create a Healthy, Happy and Productive Workforce
• Neurodiversity and Mental Health

4. Melanie Sykes

Melanie Sykes is a well-known television presenter, celebrity, and advocate, with a career spanning BBC Radio, Today with Des and Mel, Loose Women, and I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here. Having been diagnosed with autism, Melanie has become an inspiring voice for neurodiversity, sharing her personal journey and empowering others to embrace their unique qualities. As a keynote speaker and event host, she captivates audiences with her charm, relatability, and life experiences. Melanie’s advocacy for health, wellbeing, and autism awareness, along with her engaging personality, make her a dynamic speaker for any event.

5. Rachel Morgan-Trimmer

Rachel Morgan-Trimmer is a leading neurodiversity consultant and speaker, recognised for her expertise in creating inclusive workplaces for individuals with ADHD, Dyslexia, Autism, and Dyspraxia. Diagnosed with autism and ADHD herself, Rachel brings authenticity to her work, sharing personal experiences to inspire real understanding. With a background in the media industry, she now delivers impactful training to organisations like Fujitsu and Capital One. Rachel’s TEDx talk, Inclusion Is Selfish, highlights the importance of truly understanding neurodiversity. As an advocate for both neurodivergent individuals and inclusive practices, Rachel is the ideal speaker for diversity and inclusion events.

Rachel Morgan-Trimmer’s Official Speaking Topics:

• The Power of Change: Learning to Live as a Weirdo
• What is Neurodiversity and Why Should You Care About It?
• What Accessibility is and How You Can Be Truly Accessible
• LADyHD: Why ADHD Looks and Feels Different in Women and Girls

6. Charlie Hart

Charlie Hart is a dynamic neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ speaker, dedicated to empowering those who often feel “different”. With lived experience as a multiple-neurodivergent individual, Charlie brings an unmatched authenticity to her keynote talks, encouraging audiences to embrace themselves and others. Having transitioned from HR to keynote speaking in 2019, Charlie now uses her platform to inspire positive change, fostering inclusive workplace cultures and raising awareness of the challenges faced by neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities. Known for her ability to blend tough truths with optimism, Charlie is a captivating speaker who offers new perspectives on diversity and inclusion.

Charlie Hart’s Official Speaking Topics:

• What is Neurodiversity? The Concept, the Paradigm, the Movement, Neurodivergence
• My Lived Experience of Autism and/or ADHD (AuDHD)
• The ‘Double Rainbow’ Intersection: Autistic and LGBTQIA+
• Bisexuality (LGBTQ+)
• The Mental Health and Wellbeing Benefits of Running

7. Sara-Louise Ackrill

Sara-Louise Ackrill is a highly regarded Harley Street therapist, coach, and the Founder and CEO of Wired Differently, a social impact company dedicated to creating products and services for neurodivergent individuals. Diagnosed with autism and ADHD as an adult, Sara-Louise combines her personal experience with her professional expertise to advocate for greater inclusion in the workplace and society. With a background in disability and employment, as well as extensive experience in hospitality and volunteering, she draws on a wealth of knowledge to educate organisations on neurodiversity. Having spoken for institutions like Kings College and GEN-UK, Sara-Louise is a powerful voice for neurodivergent people.

Sara-Louise Ackrill’s Official Speaking Topics:

• Neurodiversity: Awareness & Communication
• Creating Healthy and Dynamic Working Environments for Neurodivergent People
• Maximising & Supporting Neurodivergent Talent
• Streamlining Recruitment Processes & Improving Retention
• Self-Care Strategies for Neurodivergent Employees

8. John-Dylan Haynes

John-Dylan Haynes is a leading neuroscientist and Professor for Theory and Analysis of Large-Scale Brain Signals at the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience. As a Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, he has dedicated his career to understanding the human brain’s connection to consciousness and attention. Renowned for his ground-breaking TED talk Mind Reading and Brain Scanning, John-Dylan explores the ethics and potential of brain decoding technology. His pioneering research on predicting decisions before conscious awareness has positioned him at the forefront of neuroscience. A sought-after speaker, he brings cutting-edge insights into brain processes, decision-making, and the future of brain-computer interfaces.

John-Dylan Haynes’ Official Speaking Topics:

• Neuroscience
• The Human Brain
• Creativity
• Innovation
• Knowledge

9. Hester Grainger

Hester Grainger is a passionate ADHD advocate, neurodiversity consultant, and sought-after keynote speaker, recognised for her engaging talks on ADHD, masking, and workplace inclusion. Diagnosed with ADHD in her forties, Hester uses her personal experience to support others navigating neurodivergence, while her professional expertise helps organisations create more inclusive environments. Co-founder of Perfectly Autistic, Hester has worked with major brands like Marks & Spencer, Sony Music, and the NHS to implement neurodiversity strategies. As a speaker, she brings authenticity and humour to her sessions, making her an ideal choice for Autism Acceptance Month events, where she inspires understanding and promotes neurodivergent acceptance.

Hester Grainger’s Official Speaking Topics:

• Being a Woman Diagnosed with ADHD in Her Forties
• Masking and ADHD
• Parenting Neurodivergent Children
• Neurodiversity and Mental Health

10. Matt Gupwell

Matt Gupwell is a highly respected keynote speaker with over 15 years of experience in neurodiversity, drawing from his personal journey with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Addiction, and Anxiety disorders. His dynamic background, having navigated various industries undiagnosed, enriches his approach, blending education with entertainment to engage diverse audiences. Matt’s expertise has led him to work with renowned organisations like the UK Government, ASOS, Sony Pictures, and the NHS, enhancing awareness of neurodivergence in the workplace and beyond. As the host of the TALKADHD podcast, recommended by the World Federation of ADHD, Matt is an influential advocate for inclusion, understanding, and the untapped potential of neurodivergent individuals.

Matt Gupwell’s Official Speaking Topics:

• What is Neurodiversity Anyway? The Answer is Not What you Think
• Masking and Unmasking. Why These are Unhelpful Terms?
• Pale. Male. Stale. (and middle-aged). How Dare you Say Life is Tough
• ADHD, Autism, and Addiction – Why are They so Often Linked?
• Embracing AI as a Reasonable Adjustment

How Can I Get Involved in Autism Acceptance Month?

Getting involved in Autism Acceptance Month can be as simple as becoming more aware of the needs of autistic individuals. In the workplace, fostering an inclusive environment by being sensitive to cognitive differences is key. This can include offering quieter spaces, natural lighting, and sensory-friendly accommodations like fidgets, headphones, or reduced artificial lighting. Encouraging flexibility allows neurodivergent individuals to work in ways that suit them best. You can also support autism-related charities, attend events, and share educational content to raise awareness and promote understanding throughout the month.

Source: Forbes

Hire an Official Top 10 Inspiring Speaker for Autism Acceptance Month 2025

Discover the leading voices in autism awareness and advocacy this Autism Acceptance Month. These top keynote speakers are shaping the conversation around neurodiversity, inclusion, and acceptance, offering powerful insights on how to better understand and support individuals on the autism spectrum. By hiring them for your event, you’ll provide your audience with invaluable strategies for fostering inclusive environments and emotional intelligence, while celebrating the strengths and unique perspectives of those with autism. Don’t miss the chance to feature the experts who are driving positive change and raising awareness in support of autism acceptance in 2025.

Our team can help you select the ideal speaker to create a meaningful experience that fosters inclusivity and awareness. Reach out to us at 0203 9816 296 or complete our online contact form to begin planning an event that will leave a lasting impression and inspire positive change. Let’s work together to amplify the voices of autism acceptance!