Donna Di Censo

Hello! I'm Donna Di Censo, residing in vibrant Austin, Texas. My life's tapestry is woven with roles ranging from fashion expertise to dynamic project management and from customer engagement to heartfelt education. Yet, a pivotal point in my journey came with the realization of my own neurodiversity and subsequently that of my beloved son. This personal epiphany wasn't just enlightening—it was an awakening, bringing forth clarity and a sense of purpose. Realizing the world of neurodiversity within our very own household, I felt compelled to advocate for the broader neurodivergent community. It dawned upon me the vast need for supportive resources, genuine understanding, and unwavering support, especially for parents and children who tread the neurodivergent path. My time as a substitute at Del Valle is immensely enriching. There, I adapt lesson plans for neurodivergent students, ensuring they feel valued, supported, and understood. In roles spanning from The Kollaborative to Donna B Di Censo Consulting, I've garnered diverse skills, deepened my empathy, and cultivated an ability to genuinely connect with people. A testament to my commitment is the formation of a special PTA committee at Del Valle ISD, focusing on providing resources for parents of exceptional students. Through this committee, we're bridging gaps, creating inclusivity, and championing the rights and needs of the neurodivergent community within our education system. This initiative is not just about support; it's about transformation, ensuring that every neurodivergent child and family feels empowered, celebrated, and understood. While my past is marked with versatility in fields ranging from fashion to tech, my present and future are devoted to uplifting the neurodivergent community. My drive is to dispel myths, cultivate understanding, and be a relentless advocate for neurodiversity. With every interaction, story, and challenge, my resolve strengthens, and my passion grows. As I envision the future, it's one where every individual's unique neurodiversity is celebrated, and where I, alongside many others, work tirelessly to ensure understanding, acceptance, and support.

Ideal Workplace Values

The ideal workplace, to me, embodies a space where every individual is acknowledged, appreciated, and supported, much like a tight-knit community. Here are the core values I believe define such an environment: Inclusivity and Respect: Given my journey with neurodiversity, both personally and professionally, it's paramount for workplaces to foster an environment where everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, feels included. Everyone's voice matters, and every idea is valued.Adaptability and Flexibility: Just as I've adapted lesson plans to cater to neurodivergent students, workplaces should be adaptable, ensuring tools and resources are available to meet various needs. Flexibility in work schedules and understanding life’s unexpected twists is key.Collaboration and Team Spirit: My time with The Kollaborative emphasized the power of collective efforts. A workplace that champions team collaborations, where every member's strengths are recognized and utilized, invariably drives success.Continuous Learning and Growth: As someone who's ventured from fashion styling to education, I believe in the power of continuous learning. An ideal workplace would invest in its employees' growth, offering opportunities for further training and skill development.Empathy and Understanding: My mission with Exceptional Allies highlights the importance of human understanding. Workplaces should be havens where employees feel understood, where empathy isn't just a word but a practiced value.Advocacy and Social Responsibility: Drawing from my volunteering experiences, I believe that an ideal workplace should also be socially responsible, supporting causes and advocating for positive change in society. It's not just about the work we do but also the impact we make.Open Communication: My roles in various organizations taught me the importance of clear and open communication. It's crucial for feedback loops to be present, ensuring any concerns, ideas, or innovations are promptly addressed and discussed.Work-Life Balance: Recognizing the importance of balancing professional commitments with personal life is key. Just as I've juggled the roles of parent, mentor, and professional, workplaces should respect and understand the multifaceted lives their employees lead.In essence, the perfect workplace, in my eyes, is one where values are lived every day, where every individual feels seen, and where the collective aim is not just success but holistic growth and positive societal impact.