I am Fraser Annis, I’m 23 years old and I have a diagnosis of Autism and ADHD. I was born in Leicester and in my family, 3 of my siblings also have neurodivergent diagnoses. As a result of this, I have a great understanding of what family life with neurodiverse family members is like and I see the difference in all four of us, we are like 4 corners of a square.
I attended a special school from the age of 5-17. This environment didn’t always suit me and I faced an array of different challenges. I acted as a mentor and student council representative; work I have decided to continue in the years since I left. After leaving school, during the COVID Pandemic, options were very limited and it seemed like there wasn’t a suitable next step.
This is why I decided to set up my own venture Anniseeds Ltd – a company focused on equality, diversity and inclusion-based causes with a mission to amplify voices and create change, something done from my magazine and podcast. I also write articles about these topics as well as football, politics and current affairs (key special interests of mine).
When I saw The Neurodivergence Project advertised online, I could not turn it down. It is a brilliant project which I can see helping many autistic people to pursue interests which will inevitably lead to careers and social interactions with family, friends and partners. I am especially keen to share my views in regards to autism both as someone who is autistic and comes from an autistic family, and as a journalist. I look forward to working with those who can inspire change and I look forward to showing many autistic people that dreams can be pursued and opportunities can be ceased.