Our Story
The Neurodivergent Hive & Studio is the brainchild of Marjorie Drage, a neurodivergent, queer artist and support worker with:
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20+ years of business experience, including small business, project and facilitation experience.
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Strong background in group dynamics and team development.
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Currently engaged in casual support work, working with Neurodivergent people.
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Community member embedded in multiple neurodivergent online groups.
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Active visual artist and creative with a long history of working with textiles, painting, drawing, printmaking, sewing and embroidery.
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Passionate about helping neurokin communities access inclusive social environments and reduce loneliness in the community.
Marjorie could not find any suitable social activity groups in Canberra that would allow her to connect to people like her to make friendships and lasting connections in a way that felt comfortable for a neurodivergent person.
With many autistic people suffering from social isolation, and finding it too difficult or expensive to access mainstream activities and groups, and a gap between clinical settings and welcoming social environments, Marjorie decided to create a solution that would allow neurodivergent people, especially those over 35, to access welcoming, supportive and specially designed groups to make it possible for them to connect to their community, make friends and have a place to belong. Marjorie is passionate about reducing barriers for neurodivergent people, building confidence in people's abilities, and helping them create meaningful connections and opportunities.
Welcome to the ND Hive!
Our Values
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Belonging – Everyone deserves a place where they feel understood and accepted.
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Authenticity – Members can show up as themselves without masking.
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Accessibility – Cost, environment and expectations shouldn't be barriers to participation.
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Community – Relationships are built through shared interests and mutual support.
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Neurodivergent – Designed by neurodivergent people and led by facilitators who share and understand the lived experience of the community.
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Visible Elders – We recognise and celebrate the wisdom and lived experience of older neurodivergent adults, and we strive to make sure that they are seen, heard and valued within our community.
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Peer Leadership – Communities are strongest when members help shape and lead them.
