I was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome in 1998 when 20-years-old. Since my diagnosis, I have completed an MA (Hons) in Information and Library Management. I was a member of the Autism External Reference Group which saw the Autism Bill successfully become an Act of Parliament in 2009, bringing an essential law into place that protects the rights of people with autism and Asperger's Syndrome. In 2010, I was appointed to the post of Operations Manager at Autism Works, a social enterprise that employs people with autism and Asperger's Syndrome in software testing. Elsewhere I have also become an advocate for the condition, giving talks, seminars and training workshops throughout the UK and internationally, focusing on its positive aspects.

After not knowing who I was for the first 20 years of my life, when I was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, I felt I had to re-invent myself in terms of education and career development. This was very difficult for me.  What has given me much self-confidence though since diagnosis is meeting other individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome. Through this experience, the most important thing I feel I have learned is that all individuals diagnosed with the condition are different. In terms of support and potential solutions, what works for one may not work for another. However, through my work, I hope to help other individuals with Asperger’s syndrome avoid difficulties that I went through and to achieve both their full potential and well-being.