Written by: Esme
Edited by: Noah
Graphic by: Lia
International School Manila is a place that strives to foster a flexible and supportive learning environment. From classroom activities to whole-school assemblies, ISM upholds the belief that inclusion is integral to intellectual and emotional growth and development. This value system allows for unique voices, talents, and perspectives to coexist in our neurodiverse community. Bringing in communities from outside ISM strengthens relationships, creates more opportunities for collaboration, and allows more artists to share their creativity with a wider audience.
From September 22nd to the 26th, Inclusion Revolution hosted Neurodiversity Week. “Neurodiversity Week is important because it reminds our community that inclusion isn’t just an idea,” said Sophia, the president of Inclusion Revolution, “It’s a practice.” The week’s activities aimed to “highlight the strengths and achievements of neurodiverse individuals, challenge stereotypes, and encourage acceptance, empathy, and respect.”
The annual event focuses on neurodiversity, which the vice president of Inclusion Revolution, Clara, defines as “the understanding that the brain and experiences of people may differ from person to person.” Simply put, it is the concept that having a brain that works differently is not a fault, but rather just a unique way of thinking and behaving.
In Elementary School, students participated in interactive sessions and assemblies throughout the week and had the opportunity to visit and explore the Therapy Room, a space designed for neurodiverse students to release energy and recharge safely.
Neurodiversity Week in Middle School was characterized by multiple advisory sessions where students were invited to explore and discuss neuroplasticity and inclusion at ISM in small groups. “In the sessions, I learned a lot about neurodiversity that I hadn’t known before,” said Carolyne, a grade 8 student. “It was really enjoyable and eye-catching.”
Throughout the week, students in High School were given the opportunity to dress in different outfits to show their school spirit and participation. On Tuesday, they were encouraged to wear mismatched socks to school. On Wednesday, they were able to wear something that showcased their personal interests and hobbies, emphasizing the many different ways people interact with their world. Finally, on Friday, students could wear any color that best represented them; a display of emotions, personal connections, and so much more!
The main event in HS was the opening of the Inclusivity Council’s art show. Titled “Tayo: All Kinds of Minds,” the exhibition featured dazzling art from three groups: Vico’s Artism Gallery, Special Olympics: Brave Hearts, and Kind Kanvas. “Expanding our partnerships is a meaningful step forward to give artists a voice,” Sophia explains. “Bringing in new groups strengthens relationships, creates more opportunities for collaboration, and allows more artists to share their creativity with a wider audience.”
Students, parents, and faculty gathered on September 23 at 5 pm for the opening, which featured musicians from Special Olympics Filipinas and some of the artists who contributed to the gallery. Alex and Sophia spoke for their fourth and final time, accompanied by Mr. Alexander, the High School Principal. “The art show is about providing a platform,” explains Sophia. “It’s a space where neurodiverse artists can showcase their talents and be recognized for their creativity. We do it to celebrate their voices, to inspire others, and to show that art has the power to connect people across differences.”
All in all, Neurodiversity Week is a valuable feature of the school year at ISM. It calls for the breaking down of stereotypes and acknowledges the beauty of cognitive diversity in our world. However, it is important to note the importance of continuing these discussions beyond just one week.
“Everyone has unique talents, and everyone deserves the chance to be seen, heard, and celebrated,” Sofia noted. “I hope people walk away with a deeper understanding that neurodiverse individuals have so much to contribute, not just through art but in every aspect of life.”
As the year progresses, Inclusion Revolution will continue to build on the foundation that Neurodiversity Week has paved, aiming to make ISM a school where differences are not just accepted, but celebrated.
