Leading with Autism and ADHD: A Founder’s Perspective on Neurodivergent Leadership in the NDIS
When we picture a “leader,” we’re often shown someone polished, always calm, always in control. But what if leadership looked a little different; more human, more honest, more lived-in?
At Dara Disability Services, our founder Vic brings something unique to the NDIS space: neurodivergent leadership, shaped by her lived experience of both autism and ADHD.
And that changes everything.
Why Lived Experience Matters
“I know firsthand what it feels like to be misunderstood. To need support that’s flexible and real. To be told you’re difficult, when really the system just wasn’t designed with neurodivergent people in mind.”
Vic doesn’t just run a service, she’s on a mission to build a community that heals loneliness, empowers difference, and never treats disability as a deficit.
This lived experience is not just part of the story, it’s the foundation of how Dara is led, grown, and held accountable.
The Strengths of Neurodivergence in Leadership
Living with autism and ADHD brings challenges, but also incredible gifts.
Vic describes it like this: “ADHD gives me the energy and creativity to chase big dreams. Autism gives me a strong sense of justice, deep integrity, and the ability to see patterns others might miss.”
This is the kind of leadership that looks beyond surface-level success and towards meaningful, human-first outcomes, and where connection and compassion are more important than KPIs.
And yet, Vic is the first to say: she doesn’t do it alone.
Real Leadership Means Accountability (Not Perfection)
Neurodivergent leadership doesn’t mean getting everything right. It means knowing where your blind spots are, and putting real systems in place.
Vic uses checklists, reminders, routines, and a trusted team to help her stay grounded.
“My brain moves fast — sometimes faster than my words. That means I need to slow down, listen deeply, and make sure my team feels heard.”
This is leadership that’s not afraid to say “I need help too”, and to invite others into accountability and growth.
Changing the Narrative Around Who Gets to Lead
Leading a disability support service as a neurodivergent woman isn’t just a personal story, it’s a statement.
A statement that neurodivergent people can be incredible leaders.
That support services can be built from compassion, not bureaucracy.
That the NDIS needs more spaces shaped by lived experience, not just policy.
At Dara, leadership is not about being above others. It’s about walking with people. Building community. And making sure no one feels like they have to do life alone.
Leading From Lived Experience, With Purpose
Vic’s vision for Dara is bigger than just a service. It’s a movement, grounded in three core values:
Connection
Compassion
Belonging
And that’s what makes Dara different. It’s not leadership despite autism and ADHD, it’s leadership because of them.
“We’re not just building services. We’re building safety, self-worth, and the kind of community that changes lives.”
