About the Career Network
The AV Career Network provides a supportive platform for neurodivergent professionals to build connections, share their stories, and explore strategies for professional success. Our inclusive approach ensures participants at all stages of their careers feel supported and valued.
We welcome adults aged 18+ who identify as neurodivergent, including those who are formally diagnosed, self-diagnosed, or exploring their diagnostic journey.
This November, we welcome internationally recognised speaker and educator Paul Micallef to our Topic Spotlight series.
Many of us know what it feels like to miss a social cue, struggle with sarcasm, or get lost in the “in-between” of indirect communication. In this session, Paul will explore why non-literal language — metaphors, humour, implications, and subtle social signals — can be difficult to process, and how we can work toward more intentional and inclusive communication.
Drawing from his lived experience as an autistic adult and his global work through Autism From the Inside, Paul will offer insight into how we interpret language, what often gets missed, and how we can strengthen relationships, confidence, and clarity.
What We’ll Cover:
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Why non-literal language is difficult for many
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How social misunderstandings occur — and how to prevent them
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Inclusive strategies for improving clarity at work and in daily life
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How to advocate for yourself in social and professional communication
About the Speaker:
Paul Micallef is the founder of Autism From the Inside, a globally respected platform for neurodivergent education and storytelling. His work combines emotional intelligence, system thinking, and the human side of autism to help individuals better understand themselves — and each other.
Paul’s YouTube channel has over 400,000 subscribers, and he has presented internationally to schools, families, professionals, and organisations seeking a better understanding of neurodiversity.
Session Details:
Date: Thursday 6 November 2025
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM AEDT
Location: Online via Zoom (link sent upon registration)
Recording: This session will be recorded and available to attendees and AV for future community access and learning
Who This Is For:
This session is part of AV’s Career Network, and is especially relevant for autistic adults with some exposure to the workforce — whether you're currently working, volunteering, or transitioning between roles.
All community members are welcome, and this session is ideal for those wanting to deepen their understanding of social communication in real-world contexts.
Tickets:
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$10 AV Members
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$15 – Non-Members
[Register here]
Lead-up Video:
We invite you to watch Paul’s short video in the lead-up to the event:
“Breaking Down Barriers to Genuine Connection – How Do We Make Friends?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVBRy5GJkOE
Zoom access will be provided to all participants upon completing their paid registration.
Additional Opportunities
In 2025, we’ve expanded our group offerings to better support and provide tailored experiences for our community. With the introduction of three distinct groups—the Career Network, Job Seeker Network, and Peer Support Touchstone Meetings—we now host a total of 26 events throughout the year.
This expansion allows us to provide more specificity and targeted support to members at various stages of their professional and personal journeys. Each group is designed to address unique needs:
- Career Network: For neurodivergent professionals or someone in a career transition' seeking growth, connections, and strategies to thrive in professional environments.
- Job Seeker Network: A focused group offering practical tools and guidance for individuals actively navigating job transitions or entering the workforce.
- Peer Support Touchstone Meetings: Informal, open discussions for sharing experiences, strategies, and peer support in a welcoming community setting.
These additional opportunities ensure our community can connect in ways that meet their specific needs. Explore the variety of offerings on our Career Network page and Job Seeker Network page for more information.
About Our Facilitators and Speakers
All our facilitators are proudly on the autism spectrum and proudly neurodiverse, bringing their lived experiences and deep understanding of neurodivergent professional journeys to every session.
Our guest speakers and supporting contributors are either neurodivergent themselves, peers within the neurodiverse community, or loved ones of neurodivergent individuals. Together, they provide authentic, insightful, and empowering perspectives that reflect the diverse experiences of our community.
This commitment ensures that every session is led by individuals who truly understand the challenges, strengths, and unique contributions of neurodivergent professionals.
All AV volunteer facilitators hold a valid Working with Children Check.
Cost and Membership Information
- Cost: $10 for AV members, $15 for non-members.
- Membership Benefits: Becoming an AV member provides discounted tickets, access to members-only programs, and opportunities to support the neurodiverse community.
If cost is a barrier, please contact our AV admin team for support.
Registration Guidelines
- Registration is required for all AV activities.
- For online events, you must register to receive the Zoom meeting link.
- Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $15.
Community Guides
We’ve created step-by-step guides to make participation easy:
These guides are designed to ensure that every participant has a smooth and enjoyable experience.
For Assistance or More Information
Contact us:
After-hours support:
- Tech and admin support for after-hours activities is available by phone for an hour before and during the first hour of the activity.
- Please note that our email inbox is not monitored outside business hours.
Policies and Terms
- AV Privacy Policy
- AV Event T&Cs
Join the AV Career Network and connect with like-minded professionals to share experiences, leverage talents, and support positive change in the perception of neurodiversity in workplaces.
