November 10, 2023

Destinee is a graduate of Project Career Launch, one of Transition Pathways school-to-work transition programs. She is now a member of the Neurodivergent Young Adult Advisory Council. The council works with Transition Pathways to provide guidance on our programs and ways to increase impact for young adults on the spectrum. Destinee took a moment to share why she wanted to join the board and the importance of highlighting autistic voices.  

 

How did you first hear about the young adult advisory group? 

I first learned about the transition pathways young adult advisory group from my teacher Mrs. Hope Deeden from Project Career Launch. I was interested in applying because I looked at it as an opportunity to be able to advocate within the autism community and be able to share some insight on what changes can be brought within the community. I also wanted to share some experiences along the way that can be useful to others.

What has been the best thing about your participation so far on the board? 

The best thing about my participation so far on the board is that I have suggested that the advisory board have more events for the autism community so that way we are branching out and networking with those who would like to network with us.  

What is one thing you have learned from your experience with the board? 

One thing that I’ve learned by being on the advisory board is that we all learn from each other based on sharing each other's experiences. I feel that learning from others is a great way of knowing that you can share the same experiences with other people, but you also know that you're not alone. It’s important to elevate autistic voices because as individuals with autism we can give a better insight as to how a person on the spectrum functions.  

This year, members of the Neurodivergent Young Adult Advisory Council took part in a panel around adulting on the autism spectrum. To watch the discussion, click HERE.  

Transition Pathways provides experiential learning to students with autism and/or intellectual disabilities with a goal of sustainable, competitive employment in the community. To learn more about our work and support us, click HERE.    

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