We love supporting autistic and neurodivergent individuals in exploring career options. But, in doing so, we sometimes tend to think about and focus on more traditional roles and jobs first–the possibility of entrepreneurship isn’t often considered. But the reality is that entrepreneurship is a viable career option where neurodivergent people can thrive.

Many neurodivergent people are well suited to be entrepreneurs. By creating their own companies, people on the spectrum can develop a work environment that leverages their interests, strengths, skills and abilities, and accommodates their work style and comfort level. The flexibility of entrepreneurship opens up all kinds of employment opportunities to a talent pool that is very skilled and capable, but often underemployed due to the way society defines “work.”

If you’re interested to learn more about self-employment and the entrepreneurial journey, you’re invited to join us for an inspiring presentation featuring Margaux Wosk (they/them). Margaux is an autistic artist–among other things–and owner and operator of Retrophiliac, an online store. They are passionate about breaking down barriers that neurodivergent individuals face in society and empowering them to create the lives they want.

In this virtual presentation, Margaux will share:

• about their journey towards becoming an entrepreneur
• why self-employment works for them (and might for you too!)
• things they’ve learned along the way, and
• some action steps attendees can take, whether you are a self-advocate, a member of a support network (like parents, guardians, family member or friends), or a business owner, operator, or if you have influence where policy is being discussed and developed.

Join us:

Thursday, December 7, 2023 

6:30 – 7:45 p.m. (Mountain Time)

Online via Sinneave Connects

There is no cost to attend this presentation, but you will need to create a FREE account to access our online platform. It’s easy! Click the button below that says, “Empowering Neurodiversity: The Entrepreneurial Journey.” You will be directed to the portal–just follow the prompts.

1. Pick a user name
2. Pick a password (Don’t forget to record it somewhere safe for next time!)
3. Select “Register”
4. Choose “Empowering Neurodiversity: The Entrepreneurial Journey” and enroll.

Empowering Neurodiversity: The Entrepreneurial Journey

If you need technical support navigating Sinneave Connects, please email us at info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!

A little bit more about Margaux: Margaux Wosk (they/them)–owner and operator of Retrophiliac–is an autistic, non-binary, self-taught artist, designer, writer, entrepreneur, disability advocate and activist based in Vancouver, BC (Unceded Coast Salish Territory). Margaux has always been a creative person. Coming from an eccentric family of artists, they credit them for fostering their unique vision. They have been able to utilise their one-of-a-kind ideas as an outlet for positive change, self-expression, and vibrant works of art. Margaux designs merchandise including a line of neurodiversity pride pieces and hopes to break down barriers and eliminate stigma. Proudly, they use their art to open a dialogue of what Autistic and disabled people are capable of, and trailblaze the way for other self-employed people in their position.

Margaux’s body of work comes in many forms, including vibrant, retro inspired paintings and mixed media work, to enamel pins, patches and stickers. Most notably, Margaux’s neurodiversity and autistic pride collections have garnered attention from around the world.

They have received multiple BC Arts Council Grants, their art was featured on the cover of York University’s Mental Health Literacy Guide for Autism, they also have extensive press coverage and have shown in multiple galleries. Margaux’s merchandise is available on retrophiliac.etsy.com, as well as www.shopretrophiliac.com. They also have their items in 20 brick and mortar retail stores. They are the Lower Mainland West Director of BC People First, they founded the Facebook groups Made by Autistics Community and Made by Autistics Marketplace.

Creativity is in Margaux’s DNA. Being Neurodivergent helps them see things their own way. Expressing themself through art helps them connect to the world around them. They primarily work with acrylic paint and paint markers, they are also known to work with mixed media and digital works. They are inspired by pop culture of the 1960s, 70s, 80s and 90s. Margaux’s artist pseudonym “Retrophiliac” encapsulates their wonder with the past. Their art features a vibrant palette, expressive movement, and surreal worlds. When painting, they trust the process and allow themself to work intuitively, channeling their inner child and transforming the music they listen to into energetic pieces. The result is usually eye-catching colours, textures, shapes, and movement. Their primary themes are; rainbows, birds, flowers, houses, trees, and geometric shapes. They live their life in stunning colour and when they create art, it’s truly a piece of their soul.