Emerald Kintsugi’s Journey
Discover our story and commitment to reshaping society through finding your authentic self.
Our Story
Our story began with a vision to transform how neurodivergent education and support are delivered. Like the art of Kintsugi, where golden joins honour the unique journey of each piece, we recognise and celebrate different ways of thinking and learning as inherent strengths.
Through lived experience, we’ve developed our practice to provide genuinely understanding, affirming support services. We are dedicated to dismantling educational barriers, establishing new benchmarks for inclusive learning, and collaborating with students and educators to honour the natural diversity of human minds.
Together, we’re not simply supporting educational journeys – we’re co-creating pathways that embrace and amplify your authentic self.
Curiousity
Curiosity drives innovation, and at Emerald Kintsugi, we celebrate the power of asking ‘why?’
This natural inclination to explore deeper understandings and question established approaches has become one of our greatest strengths in supporting neurodivergent learners.
Like the intricate patterns in Kintsugi art, every question leads us to discover unique pathways and possibilities. This deep-seated curiosity enables us to:
• Uncover personalised learning strategies that honour your natural thinking style
• Explore innovative solutions to educational challenges
• Understand the deeper patterns behind learning preferences
• Identify opportunities where others might see obstacles
Drawing from both lived experience and professional expertise, we recognise that curiosity isn’t just about asking questions—it’s about creating space for discovery and understanding. This approach allows us to collaborate meaningfully with students, families, and professionals, unlocking potential through genuine understanding and innovative thinking.
Because when we embrace curiosity as a strength, we open doorways to transformative learning experiences that celebrate every mind’s unique way of understanding the world.
Creativity
Creativity flows through every aspect of my journey as a neurodivergent educator and advocate. Like the artisans who practise Kintsugi, I recognise that our unique perspectives and experiences create something more valuable than perfection—they create authenticity.
Through embracing creative approaches to learning and advocacy, I’ve discovered that innovation flourishes when we honour our natural ways of thinking. This creative mindset has shaped Emerald Kintsugi’s foundation, where we celebrate different perspectives as strengths rather than differences to overcome.
My creative approach to education and advocacy stems from both lived experience and professional expertise. It’s about finding innovative solutions that work with your natural thinking style, not against it. Whether it’s discovering unique learning strategies or developing creative ways to self-advocate, we’ll work together to transform educational experiences into opportunities for genuine growth and celebration.
Because true creativity isn’t just about art—it’s about having the courage to embrace and honour our authentic selves in everything we do
Love of Learning
At Emerald Kintsugi, we embrace learning as a lifelong journey of discovery and growth. Like the artisan who continually refines their craft, every teaching experience enriches our understanding, and every learning moment creates new possibilities.
Our passion for learning stems from witnessing the transformative power of education when it’s approached through a strength-based lens. When learners are supported to explore knowledge in ways that honour their natural thinking styles—free from conventional expectations—remarkable growth flourishes.
This philosophy shapes our approach to:
• Supporting students in discovering their authentic learning style
• Empowering families to embrace educational journeys uniquely their own
• Guiding professionals in developing inclusive teaching practices
• Celebrating learning achievements at every age and stage
As a late-diagnosed autistic educator who earned a Black Belt in my late 30s, I understand firsthand that learning knows no boundaries or timelines. Every day presents new opportunities to grow, discover, and transform—just as Kintsugi transforms ordinary vessels into extraordinary art.
Because true learning isn’t about fitting into predetermined moulds—it’s about discovering and celebrating the unique way your mind embraces knowledge
Let the Numbers Speak
Why did we start Emerald Kintsugi?
44%
“44% of Autistic students change schools during secondary education as their needs remain unmet.” (Source: Amaze Australia, Community Attitudes Research)
6-10%
“Between 6-10% of children require additional learning support, yet many schools lack appropriate accommodations” (Source: Schools Can’t Australia)
57
“School Can’t Australia’s research reveals that 57 different stressors lead to children being unable to attend school, with neurodivergent students being disproportionately impacted” (Schools Can’t Australia, 2024)