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Axelle Ahanhanzo

Founder, Keynote Speaker
Amsterdam, NL
🇧🇯 🇹🇬 🇬🇲 🇬🇧 🇳🇱

Axelle is a third-culture kid shaped by experiences across Benin, Togo, the Gambia, and Europe. Her bicultural identity makes her a self-described “shapeshifter,” adept at navigating cultures. Fluent in six languages, she connects across horizons. Embracing her neurodivergence, she is passionate about inclusion and challenging stereotypes around identity, culture, and neurodiversity. She is the founder of LAUDACE.

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What keeps you coming back to the Netherlands?
I was born in Cotonou, but we moved when I was two — to Togo, the Gambia, and later the Netherlands — because my father worked for international organizations, including the UN, for over 30 years. His career gave us the privilege of living and studying abroad. My father’s story is inspiring. He was an orphan who lost his mother at six and was raised by relatives who treated him poorly. Despite being set to become a high school teacher in a remote village, he worked tirelessly through his studies, eventually creating opportunities for himself and for us. His resilience shaped my perspective on life.

When I was 18 and moved to the UK, I thought I’d left the Netherlands for good — it felt boring and predictable. But once I moved away, I started missing its cleanliness, safety, and predictability. Now, as I understand my autism, I realize how much that predictability calms my nervous system. 

What does neurodivergence mean to you personally and professionally?
Neurodivergence refers to a difference in how the brain functions compared to what’s considered “typical.” Personally, I’m autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, and a survivor of complex PTSD. These differences shape how I navigate the world. Being neurodivergent comes with challenges, particularly as a Black woman. For years, I thought my race and gender were the biggest factors affecting my life, but I’ve realized it’s my neurodivergence. It impacts how I communicate, express emotions, and process the world, even within Black communities.

What’s one thing people overlook about neurodiversity?
People often misunderstand neurodiversity. Like biodiversity, it’s about the sum total of differences, including both neurotypical and neurodivergent brains. If we remove or undervalue part of this “ecosystem,” we disrupt its balance. Neurodiversity is not just about neurodivergent people asking for attention — it’s about everyone. Accommodations for neurodivergent individuals benefit everyone, too. For example, adjustments like quiet supermarket hours help both neurodivergent people and anyone who wants a calmer shopping experience. When we design inclusive systems, we make life better for all.

Can you tell us about a project you’re currently working on?
I’m launching an interview series called Flip the Neuro. It features 10 episodes with 12 participants from various cultural and neurodivergent backgrounds. The goal is to challenge stereotypes and raise awareness that neurodivergence isn’t one-size-fits-all. We’ve included people with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, PTSD, and cerebral palsy, among other conditions. The series highlights the diversity of neurodivergence and emphasizes that these stories aren’t just about struggles — they’re about resilience and the unique contributions neurodivergent individuals make. I hope it empowers others and sparks important conversations.

Is there a final thought or insight you'd like to share?
I’d encourage anyone navigating neurodivergence to find safe spaces to talk about it. One in five people is neurodivergent, so you’re not alone. And for allies, be curious, challenge stereotypes, and support people when they ask for help. Understanding and openness can make a huge difference.