Diversity champion Alix Grunwaldt-Sampson’s path to ADHD diagnosis intertwines with her LGBTQIA+ journey, demonstrating how embracing multiple identities can create powerful spaces for authenticity and inclusion in the workplace. Alix shares her story below.
My journey to an ADHD diagnosis has been one of self-discovery, acceptance, and empowerment.
As a proud LGBTQIA+ woman, I have always been passionate about diversity and inclusion, even before I felt safe to share exactly who I am.
This is what led me to roles like Senior Diversity & Inclusion Partner at Australia Post, AGL Energy, and PwC, where I have had the privilege of creating inclusive experiences for people that have been historically underrepresented or marginalised.
In 2018, I came out as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Navigating my identity as a queer woman in the workplace was both challenging and liberating. I faced my share of bias, but I also found a community that empowered me to thrive and reminded me that I’m not alone. I co-created Rainbow Women, a professional LGBTQIA+ women’s network, so that others could find this same community too.
A few years of knowing myself even better inspired me to participate in a mentoring program run by the Australian Disability Network in 2021 where I was a leader mentoring a young person with a disability who was looking to enter the workforce.
It was around this time that what I used to describe as my ‘Alix-isms’, my difficulty focusing on tasks, my over-preparation for simple deadlines, my inability to stop myself from interrupting others, all started to bubble to the surface. My mentee encouraged me to look into it further and after speaking with my doctor, I was referred to a psychiatrist.
Following several expensive interviews and lengthy questionnaires, unpicking the school reports where I was described as ‘chatty’, ‘sociable’, and ‘easily distracted’, I was formally diagnosed with ADHD.
This revelation was both a relief and a challenge. On one hand, it provided clarity and understanding of the way my brain works. On the other hand, it forced me to confront the stigma and misconceptions surrounding ADHD.
As a woman, I had to navigate the additional layer of gender biases that often downplay or misinterpret ADHD symptoms in women, which is what stopped me from being diagnosed at an early age, like many other young girls.
Being a mentor to a young person with a disability entering the workforce, and leading a professional LGBTQIA+ network, while navigating my own disability diagnosis was a powerful experience. It forced me to lead by example and not shy away from who I truly am. I am proud of my identity and the unique perspective I bring to my work and personal life.
My being queer or experiencing ADHD does not define me. I am more than the sum of all my parts, and embracing all of me has allowed me to connect more deeply with others and create safe spaces for those around me.
