Empower Neurodiverse Learners
We are the spark that can set the rest of the world (or our world) on fire (Brown, 2019).
Our Vision
Hi there, and welcome! We’re so glad you found this space.
Our names are Marina and Ksenia, and we created this website as a resource to help shift the conversation around neurodivergence from one of struggle to one of empowerment.
As we are both graduates from St. Mary's University (BA) we've spent years immersed in the research behind conditions like ADHD and Autism. But our passion goes beyond the textbooks. We believe neurodiversity is not something to be ‘fixed,’ but something to be understood, celebrated, and accommodated.
This space is built on the philosophy of inclusivity and self-advocacy. Whether you are a neurodivergent individual, a parent seeking practical tools, a teacher needing classroom insights, or a caring ally, you’ll find research-backed information delivered with warmth and compassion.
Our commitment is to provide the resources you need to not just cope, but to thrive—on your own terms.
Experienced Educators
Marina Dykman
At Empowering Gifted Families, our team includes Marina, an experienced primary teacher with special education training. With a background as a certified education assistant, she is dedicated to helping neurodiverse learners achieve their true potential. Marina is a strong advocate for inclusive learning especially for gifted and neordivergent learners. She worked in Choice School for Gifted Children as the kindergarten and grade one teacher where she worked alongside an education assistant, occupational therapist, and behavioural interventionsit to help better support her students and families. She is excited to be a more involved advocate for neurodivergent families and to better be able to provide resources for all.
Ksenia Herbst
At Empowering Gifted Families, our team includes Ksenia, a recent Psychology graduate from St. Mary's University with a passion for empowering neurodivergent children, teens, and adults.