What is Neurodiversity?

In every family, every village, and every culture, there are many ways of thinking, learning, and being. Neurodiversity is the word we use to honor those differences in our brains — the unique ways we process the world around us.

What It Means
Some people’s brains are wired for deep focus, some for creativity, some for movement, some for problem-solving. Conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or anxiety are not “brokenness.” They are part of the natural diversity of humanity, just like our languages, dances, and traditions.

Why It Matters for Us
In Pasifika families, we value belonging. But too often, our children who think or learn differently are misunderstood, punished, or silenced. When we recognize neurodiversity, we see that our children are not “too much” or “not enough” — they are exactly who they were created to be.

Cultural Lens
Our ancestors celebrated each person’s role in the village — the fisher, the weaver, the storyteller, the navigator. Neurodiversity is no different. Every mind brings mana, a gift that strengthens the whole community.

Embracing Neurodiversity
When we honor neurodiversity, we build families and communities where every person feels seen, valued, and loved. We create spaces where difference is not feared but celebrated — because that’s how our people have always survived and thrived, together.