Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion: Our Journey to the Kingston Sustainability Award 2024
I’m beyond thrilled to share some incredible news with you all—Emma Jae Custom Laser Designs has been honoured with the Kingston Sustainability Award for Diversity and Inclusion in 2024! This recognition, presented by the Kingston Council, is not just a milestone for our small business but a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and the drive to make a meaningful difference.
A Dream Realised Through Unexpected Challenges
As a child, I often dreamed about what my future might look like, imagining the joys and challenges of parenthood. However, life threw a curveball when my son Harvey was diagnosed as neurodivergent. In that moment, my world seemed to shift, and I had to rediscover not only how to be a mother but how to navigate a world that often isn’t ready to celebrate differences.
This journey led me to create the Desk Visual Schedule, a product designed with neurodivergent children in mind—children like Harvey, who struggle with transitions and flexibility in their daily routines. The Desk Visual Schedule allows these kids to independently create a path for their day, giving them a sense of control and comfort. As a bonus, it also supports the development of fine and gross motor skills.
The Power of Community and Collaboration
The recognition we received at the Kingston Sustainability Awards is not just about our product; it's about the community that made it possible. I want to extend a massive thank you to Tanya Whiteside and Sarah Ebbott from Chelsea Primary School. Your collaboration and support in creating the Desk Visual Schedule have been invaluable. Sarah, your passion for inclusivity and dedication to our children is truly inspiring.
I also want to acknowledge the unwavering support of my husband, who believes in every idea and plan I come up with, and to my children, especially Harvey, who inspires me daily to create solutions that make a real difference.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To the Kingston Council, Mayor Jenna Davey-Burns, Nishtha, and everyone involved in organising this incredible event—thank you for recognising the impact that small businesses can have. This award fuels our passion to continue striving for a more inclusive world. Thank you to the Banksia Foundation and the judges for this incredible honour, and to my fellow finalists—I admire all that you do to drive change in our world.
I’d also like to give a special shoutout to Kingston Collective and Bec for tirelessly championing small businesses like mine. Your efforts in creating a supportive community have made all the difference in our journey.
Lastly, to my amazing cheer squad of girlfriends and family—thank you for always being there, celebrating every win, and supporting us through every challenge. Your love and understanding, especially when it comes to navigating life with a neurodivergent child, is unmatched.
Looking Ahead
This award is not the end of our journey, but just another step in our mission to create tools and resources that make life easier and more inclusive for neurodivergent children and their families. We are excited for what the future holds and are more motivated than ever to continue this important work.
Thank you all for your continued support. Together, we can make the world a more inclusive place, one small step at a time.
Em x
