Jackie Chanzi

Jackie Chanzi

she/her

Why are you nominating for the Board?

I would like to take an active role in the empowerment of Autistic people and the promotion of Autistic cultural perspectives. I believe that it is crucial disrupt the status quo by magnifying Autistic voices and perspectives. I think all Autistic people can contribute and play a role in this.

I believe that self advocacy is central to Autistic well-being and we can achieve this by sharing our experiences and resources. I am experienced in promoting Autistic self advocacy and very aware that this is not a “one size fits all” situation. Self advocacy is a trial and error process and something that we can build up over time.

I want to promote a positive view of Autism both to the world. Although we experience disability in many varied (and common) ways, there is lot to love about being Autistic, We should not be limited by any lack of understanding of people and/or institutions. I would love to play a role in disrupting and changing that understanding. Creating a world where Autistic culture is understood and Autistic points of view are accepted.

What involvement have you had in Autistic self advocacy?

I have worked as an Autistic Advisor and Consultant for 6 years. A major part of my roles has been to talk to Autistic people and work with them on self-advocacy. I have worked with individuals to build a personal “self-advocacy toolkit” and have monitored and reviewed the efficacy of various tools. I have advocated for Autistic individuals to various professionals and organisations in their lives.

I provide training to employers and organisations from an Autistic cultural perspective to emphasise the ways that they can work effectively with Autistic folks, and to teach them what true equity and inclusion means in a practical sense.

What experience on and contributions to other boards and committees have you had?

I was a founding member of Health Australia & Tanzania (HAT), and was responsible for getting HAT set up as an incorporated association. I was also the secretary for approximately 18 months.

I worked with the I CAN Network soon after inception, where I helped to set up teen camps. and advised them to become an incorporated association, in order to protect the organisation legally for the purpose of the camps. I set up the incorporated association, an interim measure. on the path to their current structure.

I was on the Tanzanian Community Association of Victoria (TCAV) committee for several years, in the roles of Secretary and Events Coordinator. I organised several successful events including 3 camps.

I am currently on the committee for Rosewood Music Camp an annual folk music camp in the Strathbogie ranges. I have been on the committee for 8 years and am currently responsible for Catering.

What are your areas of expertise?

I have expertise in Autistic Identity and Culture, Neurodivergence and employment, and Autism in education.

I have expertise in Autistic communication, especially from a cross-cultural perspective.

I also have expertise in Plain English and Easy English.

I am experienced trainer and Autism coach.

Which of these areas do you have strong skills in that you would apply on the ASAN-AUNZ Board?

  • Governance expertise including experience on Boards and committees and/or leadership roles.
  • Working with vulnerable cohorts.
  • Co-design facilitation and participation.
  • Accessibility including online and easy read.

What else would you like the members of ASAN-AUNZ to know about you? (optional)

I am a late identified Autistic woman and then discovered my passion for Autistic advocacy.

I have raised two neurodivergent young adults from whom I have been learning constantly since their births.

If elected, I will work diligently for ASAN and for all Autistic people.