January 21 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
What now? Discovering autism later in life can be both liberating and disorienting. Many Autistic adults describe feeling “between worlds” no longer fitting the old stories they were told about themselves, yet still uncertain how to embrace a new way forward. Living The Good Life offers held space to share this journey with others who “get it”, so you don’t have to navigate it alone, while exploring new possibilities for identity, connection, and meaning.
This peer-facilitated drop-in group is for adults who are newly diagnosed, late-identified, or newly aware/self-diagnosed Autistic, and who are navigating the early stages of understanding what that means. Together, we explore what it means to “be Autistic” beyond the clinical lens through storytelling, connection, reflection, and lived experience.
At its heart, this series is about beginning again from the other side of this liminal space. It isn’t about arriving at a fixed destination but stepping into an ongoing process of your becoming. Discovering, learning, and shaping your own path.
Wednesdays, January 21, February 4, February 18, March 4, 2026
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
This is not a therapy group. It is a space for mutual support, co-regulation, and honest, non-performative conversation. Everyone enters as an equal. Not as experts (including the facilitator) but as people, uncovering something we’ve always been.
Led by an Autistic facilitator(s) who are walking this road themselves, each session offers space to unmask, grieve, reframe, and slowly rebuild. Together, we’ll witness and support one another as we navigate loss, joy, hope, and the beginnings of a new relationship with ourselves, on our own terms.
Please note: This space is exclusively for people who identify as Autistic and are in the early stages of that discovery. It is not intended for allies, parents, professionals, or those who are curious but do not personally identify. This boundary ensures participants can share openly without explanation or justification.
The purpose of this group is to provide a supportive, non-clinical peer-led space for Autistic adults who are newly, late, or self-identified, to begin exploring what it means to live authentically for themselves after diagnosis.
In this pilot series, participants will:
- Engage with their feelings and reactions openly, recognizing that all emotions are valid (and can be “ACT’d” on) and important to their journey.
- Build trust in themselves again, their instincts, and their experiences as they navigate new understandings of identity.
- Explore life as an ongoing process, focusing on growth, self-discovery, and meaningful connection rather than fixed outcomes (or this is the “right way to…”), that they may have been stuck in.
- Witness and be witnessed (Leave grounded) by peers, fostering a sense of belonging, validation, and mutual support; Triaged support so people don’t have to do it alone.
- Begin cultivating a more authentic relationship with themselves, learning to move toward a personally meaningful version of their “the good life.”
** Space in these sessions are limited, and advance registration is not required. You can drop-in to any or all of the sessions, there is no cost to attend. **
About the Presenter:
Ryan Elkanah is a late-diagnosed AuDHD adult with lived experience navigating identity, masking, mental health, burnout, and loss, as well as reclaiming agency. They bring a neuro-affirming, values-driven, strength-based, and trauma-informed lens to peer support, grounded in experience as an Autistic self-advocate and facilitator at Sinneave.
With backgrounds in community development and youth work, Ryan creates and holds spaces for authentic connection, reflection, and witnessing. A lifelong learner, they are passionate about supporting those who have been misunderstood, marginalized, or overlooked, helping participants explore their own paths toward living authentically and embracing the ongoing process of self-discovery.
If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call (403) 210-5000. We’re here to help.
Related Events
Are you or someone you know neurodivergent?
Are you interested in creating a more inclusive community for everyone?
If so, this is the presentation for you!
Join us for a virtual Lunch & Learn Thursday, March 14th from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
We will start with a brief introduction of who we are and then dive into the 6 Principles that are instrumental in creating environments where everyone can thrive.
These 6 Principles – Communication, Environment, Structure, Flexibility, Emotion and Connection – are informed by and created collaboratively with Autistics themselves. We’ll go over each one, from tackling communication breakdowns to adding structure for success. And guess what? These Principles are not just for neurodivergent folks; they are for anyone aiming to create an inclusive, welcoming space at work or in their community. Towards the end of the presentation, we will open the floor to any questions and discussions! We are all about fostering inclusivity, so let’s create spaces where everyone can shine!
There are a few tickets remaining, so don’t delay. Click the button below that says “6 Principles to Inform Action” to reserve your spot.
About The Presenter:
The Sinneave Family Foundation is an operating foundation that works with individuals, communities, and organizations across Canada to reduce barriers and enhance opportunities in education, employment, and housing for Autistic youth and adults. Our vision is that people live, learn, work and thrive in their communities and realize their desired futures. We are based out of Calgary and serve all of Alberta.
Amy Tatterton is the Director of Learning and Connection for the Sinneave Family Foundation. She provides leadership to knowledge exchange activities and community engagement initiatives that help Sinneave fulfill its mission of reducing barriers and enhancing opportunities for autistic youth and adults. Amy holds a Master of Education in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Calgary with a concentration in Educational Research and has specific interest in neurodivergence and cooccurring mental health concerns. Amy is a born and raised Calgarian with personal and professional experience in a variety of environments that support neurodiverse individuals including sport, post-secondary supports, pediatric behaviour intervention, early childhood learning management and now adulthood transition support. When she’s not working, Amy loves to spend time outside – golfing, skiing, camping and hiking!
We are passionate about coming alongside Autistic and neurodivergent job seekers to assist them on their employment journeys. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re interested in improving your job prospects, consider joining us for our Drop-in Employment Support sessions in January 2024.
Please note these sessions will be in person only and NOT offered virtually or online.
Tuesdays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2024
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
You will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths.
There is no formal agenda. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes, and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on helping you to develop essential pre-employment skills, including:
- creating an effective resume
- learning and practicing interview techniques
- job search strategies
- and more!
Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights, and enhance their employability, confidence, and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in. We hope to see you there!
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Marcela, Sherry, and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and career success.
We are passionate about coming alongside Autistic and neurodivergent job seekers to assist them on their employment journeys. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re interested in improving your job prospects, consider joining us for our Drop-in Employment Support sessions in January 2024.
Please note these sessions will be in person only and NOT offered virtually or online.
Tuesdays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2024
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
You will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths.
There is no formal agenda. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes, and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on helping you to develop essential pre-employment skills, including:
- creating an effective resume
- learning and practicing interview techniques
- job search strategies
- and more!
Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights, and enhance their employability, confidence, and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in. We hope to see you there!
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Marcela, Sherry, and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and career success.
We are passionate about coming alongside Autistic and neurodivergent job seekers to assist them on their employment journeys. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re interested in improving your job prospects, consider joining us for our Drop-in Employment Support sessions in January 2024.
Please note these sessions will be in person only and NOT offered virtually or online.
Tuesdays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2024
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
You will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths.
There is no formal agenda. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes, and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on helping you to develop essential pre-employment skills, including:
- creating an effective resume
- learning and practicing interview techniques
- job search strategies
- and more!
Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights, and enhance their employability, confidence, and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in. We hope to see you there!
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Marcela, Sherry, and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and career success.
We are passionate about coming alongside Autistic and neurodivergent job seekers to assist them on their employment journeys. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re interested in improving your job prospects, consider joining us for our Drop-in Employment Support sessions in January 2024.
Please note these sessions will be in person only and NOT offered virtually or online.
Tuesdays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2024
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
You will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths.
There is no formal agenda. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes, and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on helping you to develop essential pre-employment skills, including:
- creating an effective resume
- learning and practicing interview techniques
- job search strategies
- and more!
Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights, and enhance their employability, confidence, and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in. We hope to see you there!
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Marcela, Sherry, and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and career success.
We are passionate about coming alongside Autistic and neurodivergent job seekers to assist them on their employment journeys. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re interested in improving your job prospects, consider joining us for our Drop-in Employment Support sessions in January 2024.
Please note these sessions will be in person only and NOT offered virtually or online.
Tuesdays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2024
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
You will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths.
There is no formal agenda. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes, and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on helping you to develop essential pre-employment skills, including:
- creating an effective resume
- learning and practicing interview techniques
- job search strategies
- and more!
Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights, and enhance their employability, confidence, and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in. We hope to see you there!
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Marcela, Sherry, and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and career success.