April 14 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Women often face unique experiences as Autistic and neurodivergent individuals, including how we socialize, societal expectations, and how Autism is understood and expressed.
We’re thrilled to offer a group designed specifically for Autistic and neurodivergent adults (18+) who identify as women or who connect with experiences of womanhood.* This is not a therapy group, but rather, a supportive, non-clinical space to discuss and share ideas, lived experiences, and connect meaningfully with others.
The content and resources shared in this group are informed by both lived Autistic experience and research as they intersect with gendered experiences in society.
In this session, we’ll talk about different aspects of being Autistic and what that means and looks like in daily life. Participants are welcome to share lived experiences and discuss strategies that have been helpful for them.
Topics may include:
- Strategies for regulation
- Communication strategies
- Lifestyle changes
- Sensory-friendly accommodations
- Leaning into interests
- Finding neurodivergent community and support
*This group is intended for Autistic and neurodivergent folks who identify as women or who connect with experiences of womanhood, inclusive of non-binary and other 2SLGBTQ+ identities and expressions. This boundary ensures that participants can share openly without explanation, justification or judgement.
Please also note: During this session, Sinneave staff, guest presenters, and attendees may share information about community resources. Some information provided may not be accurate, up-to-date, or reliable for everyone. Attendees are also encouraged to be critical consumers of information available on the internet. Providing information about a community resource is not endorsement, and Sinneave does not assume any risk for the outcome of using the information shared during this session.
Tuesday, April 14
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
There is no cost to attend.
Registration is appreciated, but not required. If you sign up in advance, our facilitators are able to contact you in the event of a last-minute change in plans. Drop-ins are also welcome.
To register, log in to Sinneave Connects. If you don’t have a Sinneave Connects account yet, it’s easy! Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access the learning hub and follow these steps:
- Pick a username
- Pick a password
- Select “Register”
- Choose the Women’s Group: Peer Support for 18+ workshop and click on the enroll button
About the presenters:
Kristen Coglon is a Life Skills Coach at The Sinneave Family Foundation. She has been working with Sinneave for more than 4 years and in the Human Services field for more than 10 years. Her experiences have been working with individuals across the lifespan, and she has gained valuable skills and knowledge that contribute to her daily work. Kristen is a passionate and empathetic person who is happy to be a listening ear, supportive coach, and an advocate for Autistic and neurodivergent adults.
Alexandra (Ali) Skeet is a Learning and Connection Associate at The Sinneave Family Foundation. She delivers the Information and Navigation service where they have the pleasure to meet with Autistic and neurodivergent individuals one-on-one to provide consistent, person-centred information and navigation to Sinneave programs and services, and/or community-based resources. Ali has both professional and lived experience navigating identity, and the intersectional impact of societal expectations/beliefs on neurodivergent individuals. They bring over a decade of experience in the field of mental health, and a passion for person-centered care and intersectional inclusivity.
If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call (403) 210-5000. We’re here to help.
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March 17 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
This presentation is part of the Azrieli Accelerator Engaged Research Discussion Series. During this online discussion we will explore how the language used in research shapes public understanding, policy conversations, and community trust.
Using neurodiversity-affirming language as a case example, we will examine how people with lived experience wish to be represented in scientific literature and the responsibilities researchers hold as their work circulates beyond academic journals.
Participants will reflect on precision, accuracy, and intentional language choices in research communication.
Tuesday, March 17
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via Azrieli Accelerator
Registration for this event is via the Azrieli Accelerator. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Azrieli Accelerator Engaged Research Discussion Series
This series helps researchers build capacity to meaningfully engage people with lived experience as participants and partners in research. Open to researchers and trainees across all disciplines, we introduce core principles of engaged research and explore how inclusive, community-partnered approaches can strengthen research design, practice, and knowledge sharing in neurodevelopment research.
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March 25 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Cancer can affect anyone, and growing awareness is helping healthcare providers better understand how to support Autistic patients throughout diagnosis and treatment.
As research and lived experience continue to inform practice, there is increasing recognition that sensory environments, communication styles, and healthcare systems can play an important role in how Autistic people experience cancer care – particularly for aging Autistic adults navigating complex treatment pathways.
Join Dr. Char Goodwin, Dr. Mary Doherty, and Melissa Levin for an insightful discussion exploring how cancer care can evolve to better meet the needs of Autistic patients.
Drawing on research, clinical insight, and lived expertise, the panel will highlight both the challenges Autistic patients report and the approaches that are making care more accessible and supportive across the cancer journey.
In this webinar, we’ll explore:
• What Autistic patients say is most helpful across screening, diagnosis, and treatment
• How communication, sensory awareness, and flexible practices can improve care
• Practical strategies clinicians and support networks can use to create more accessible healthcare experiences
Participants will also hear system-level ideas that can help healthcare environments become more responsive and supportive, so Autistic patients can focus on their health rather than navigating barriers.
This session is designed for Autistic adults, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and anyone interested in strengthening cancer care for Autistic people.
Wednesday, March 25
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via AIDE Canada
Registration for this event is via AIDE Canada’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Presenters:
Dr. Mary Doherty
Melissa Levin
Dr. Char Goodwin
Moderator:
Douglas Parsons – Training and Resource Manager, Autism Edmonton
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March 31 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
For many years, autism research and diagnostic tools focused primarily on male presentations. As research and lived experience continue to shape the field, our understanding of how Autism presents in girls and women is growing.
This important panel brings together three leading voices who are helping advance that understanding and improve how autism is recognized and assessed.
Together, they will explore why many women have historically been overlooked in diagnostic processes, and how research, clinical insight, and lived expertise are helping change that.
During this webinar, we’ll explore:
• Why current Autism diagnostic tools may not fully capture female presentations
• How camouflaging and gendered expectations can influence clinical assessment
• What emerging research and practice can do to improve recognition and support
This discussion is designed for clinicians, educators, researchers, families, and Autistic individuals interested in building a fuller understanding of the female autism experience.
Tuesday, March 31
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via AIDE Canada
Registration for this event is via AIDE Canada’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Presenters:
Dr. Gina Rippon
Dr. Dana Waters
Dr. Kimberly Armstrong
Moderator:
Douglas Parsons – Training and Resource Manager, Autism Edmonton
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April 8 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
What is life like for an Autistic over the age of 50 who received their diagnosis later in life? Plus, how and why does one become a self-advocate at this stage of a person’s life?
Meet Dianne Skoetsch. Dianne is a powerhouse of energy and dedicated to lifelong learning. In this session, you will hear Dianne’s story. You may identify with certain aspects of her journey and walk away having met someone who feels like a kindred spirit. We are convinced that you will appreciate her message.
This learning session is part of Autism Edmonton’s “Autistic Journeys: Voices and Perspectives” series which is brought to you with support from the Sinneave Family Foundation.
Wednesday, April 8
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Presenter:
Dianne Skoetsch was born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, and has deep roots in the community. She was born in 1960 at the Royal Alexandra Hospital and was raised by her mother from a young age, an experience that fostered her independence, resilience, and strong sense of responsibility. An only child, Dianne has lived in Edmonton for most of her life.
Diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome later in life, Dianne brings valuable lived experience, insight, and compassion to her work and volunteerism. She values faith, lifelong learning, and healthy living, and she enjoys music, theatre, nature, walking, cooking, typing, and ongoing personal development. She regularly participates in fitness and educational programs at local senior centres.
Dianne currently serves as Power of Attorney and Agent for her mother, Maisie, who lives with progressive dementia in a specialized care residence. This unpaid role reflects her commitment to advocacy, ethical decision-making, and caregiving. She has also volunteered with the Autism Independent Living Association for over 10 years, including service as a former board member and secretary, and continues to support the organization through special projects.
In addition, Dianne is a board member and singer with Braille Tones, a choir for individuals with disabilities, through the Braille Tones Music Society. She is also a member of the Autism Lions Club, where she occasionally participates in service initiatives. Dianne is deeply committed to helping others, fostering inclusion, and contributing meaningfully to her community.
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March 26 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
After overcoming struggles to accept and understand the impact of autism in her own life, Terri Robson was inspired to help others. With incredible determination she has engaged in various projects to raise awareness of and remove barriers for individuals with Autism.
Terri has become an ambassador and a voice for thousands of Albertans and Canadians who cannot speak for themselves. The impact of Terri’s tireless work is tremendous as her presentations continue to be well-received in communities and have even exceeded her own expectations.
Her impressive skills are not limited to her workspace. Terri is a leader and mentor who has worked tirelessly at many varied events in Alberta for years. Her determination, hard work and effectiveness continue to inspire and to make a difference in Alberta’s communities.
Dynamic, funny, and informative, Terri will share how she became an advocate for herself and for others. You don’t want to miss it.
This learning session is part of Autism Edmonton’s “Autistic Journeys: Voices and Perspectives” series which is brought to you with support from the Sinneave Family Foundation.
Thursday, March 26
7:00 – 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
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March 17 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Women often face unique experiences as Autistic and neurodivergent individuals, including how we socialize, societal expectations, and how Autism is understood and expressed.
We’re thrilled to offer a new group designed specifically for Autistic and neurodivergent adults (18+) who identify as women or who connect with experiences of womanhood.* This is not a therapy group, but rather, a supportive, non-clinical space to discuss and share ideas, lived experiences, and connect meaningfully with others.
The content and resources shared in this group are informed by both lived Autistic experience and research as they intersect with gendered experiences in society.
In this first session, we’ll discuss:
- Understanding Autism and gender differences
- Understanding how this affects presentation, diagnosis, and the link to stereotypes
- Breaking down barriers and stereotypes
*This group is intended for Autistic and neurodivergent folks who identify as women or who connect with experiences of womanhood, inclusive of non-binary and other 2SLGBTQ+ identities and expressions. This boundary ensures that participants can share openly without explanation, justification or judgement.
Tuesday, March 17
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
There is no cost to attend.
Registration is appreciated, but not required. If you sign up in advance, our facilitators are able to contact you in the event of a last-minute change in plans. Drop-ins are also welcome.
To register, log in to Sinneave Connects. If you don’t have a Sinneave Connects account yet, it’s easy! Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access the learning hub and follow these steps:
- Pick a username
- Pick a password
- Select “Register”
- Choose the Women’s Group: Peer Support for 18+ workshop and click on the enroll button
About the presenters:
Kristen Coglon is a Life Skills Coach at The Sinneave Family Foundation. She has been working with Sinneave for more than 4 years and in the Human Services field for more than 10 years. Her experiences have been working with individuals across the lifespan, and she has gained valuable skills and knowledge that contribute to her daily work. Kristen is a passionate and empathetic person who is happy to be a listening ear, supportive coach, and an advocate for Autistic and neurodivergent adults.
Alexandra (Ali) Skeet is a Learning and Connection Associate at The Sinneave Family Foundation. She delivers the Information and Navigation service where they have the pleasure to meet with Autistic and neurodivergent individuals one-on-one to provide consistent, person-centred information and navigation to Sinneave programs and services, and/or community-based resources. Ali has both professional and lived experience navigating identity, and the intersectional impact of societal expectations/beliefs on neurodivergent individuals. They bring over a decade of experience in the field of mental health, and a passion for person-centered care and intersectional inclusivity.
If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call (403) 210-5000. We’re here to help.
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April 2 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Save the Date!
Together with Autism Aspergers Friendship Society (AAFS) we are hosting World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day celebrations!
Thursday, April 2, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sam Centre (632 13 Avenue SE)
Please visit our social media platforms for updates on event planning soon!
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March 19 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Join Autism Edmonton’s Autistic Journeys: Voices & Perspectives series, where individuals share their story of how they have become self-advocates. In this case, Heather will discuss how, as an aging adult, they have created a space for themselves. A specific focus will be on AISH and resources.
This learning session introduces you to a self-advocate who is creating space for everyone through the advocacy they are doing. Join to learn more and be inspired!
This session is brought to you by Autism Edmonton and The Sinneave Family Foundation.
Thursday, March 19, 2026
7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Presenter:
Heather Hanninen Fairbairn is a disabled, nonbinary person working at the intersections of poverty, disability, housing, and women’s and gender-diverse people’s issues. Heather has multiple disabilities, and she is neurodivergent, which she considers an asset and not a disability.
Heather began to organize AISH recipients about 10 years ago by creating the first Facebook group for AISH-specific concerns and still plays an active role in her own group, The AISH Page, and associated AISH groups. AISH is Alberta’s provincial disability benefit.
Heather is part of the Pan-Canadian Voice for Women’s Housing’s (PCVWH) National Advisory Council and is grateful to have worked along with the amazing women and gender-diverse humans that make up that group.
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February 27 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Join Kyle Lobb for a unique exploration of Autistic Journeys, offering diverse voices and perspectives. This learning session is part of Autism Edmonton’s “Autistic Journeys: Voices and Perspectives” series, where Kyle will share his experiences and insights as a neurodivergent individual navigating life, independence, and community involvement.
This session is well suited for educators, parents, professionals, and anyone interested in hearing authentic Autistic voices and learning about neurodiversity, self-advocacy, and inclusive practices.
This session is brought to you by Autism Edmonton and The Sinneave Family Foundation.
Friday, February 27
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Online via Autism Edmonton
Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s website. You can register by clicking the button that says, “Register”.
About the Presenter:
Kyle Lobb is a 37-year-old neurodivergent individual diagnosed with Autism, Tourette’s syndrome, OCD, ADHD, and Bipolar disorder. Growing up, Kyle often felt different from others and faced challenges navigating school, friendships, employment, and neurotypical society. Despite these obstacles, he has developed strategies to manage daily life and recently moved into his first independent home with support from his community.
Kyle is also a personal trainer and an active member of Toastmasters, which has helped him build confidence and strengthen his communication skills. He credits much of his personal growth to the support of his loving family and Edmonton’s Autistic community, inspiring him to give back through active involvement in initiatives that empower neurodivergent individuals.
Kyle currently serves as Vice-President of the Alberta Independent Living Association (AiLA), using his lived experience and expertise to advance independence, advocacy, and inclusion for people with disabilities.