Date: 15th January 2026
Time: 19:00 – 20:30
Location: Online
Mike Karasinski will deliver a talk entitled Why We Need a Space For NaDDs (Neuroaffirming Dudes ‘n’ Dads).
About Mike:
Mike Karasinski is a mental health nurse with over 20 years of experience working in the NHS. His career took a transformative turn when he attended the pilot of the National Autism Trainer Programme, an experience that reshaped both his professional path and his personal understanding. Becoming a trainer for the programme opened doors to inspiring colleagues and mentors who believed in him, welcomed him, and taught him in ways he will always treasure.
In June 2025, Mike was diagnosed with ADHD, a moment that brought clarity to lifelong challenges and helped him recognise what he needs to thrive — most importantly, authentic connection with people who share similar lived experiences. While waiting for his assessment, he discovered a lack of local support for neurodivergent men and dads. Determined to fill that gap, he founded NaDDs (Neuroaffirming Dudes ‘n’ Dads) in January 2025, a growing community built on understanding, belonging, and shared experience.
Mike is passionate about fostering inclusive spaces where neurodivergent individuals can be their authentic selves. He combines his experience as a mental health nurse with his commitment to representation, accessibility, and community-building, ensuring that every project he leads reflects warmth, inclusivity, and authenticity.
Please note, this talk will cover some of the challenges faced by late diagnosed neurodivergence, which could be upsetting for some.
The Centre for Autism Wellbeing Hub
The Wellbeing Hub is a new initiative, funded by University of Reading Alumni. The aim of the Hub is to bring together autistic people, their families, practitioners and researchers to co-produce and deliver neurodiversity-affirming activities that support autistic young people and their families to thrive and flourish.
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In the meantime, please email us if we can offer any further assistance: cfaevents@reading.ac.uk