Neurodivergent people, such as autistic people and those with ADHD or Tourette’s, have long been talked about through problems and deficits. Too often, support and rehabilitation have focused on hiding neurodivergent traits, leading to stress, depression, and even burnout and suicidality.
Discrimination is still very real, too: for example, an estimated 70% of autistic adults are currently outside the workforce. Neurodivergent people have too often been treated as something to be “fixed,” rather than as creative, active participants in society.
Our guiding principle is clear: nothing about us without us.
We want to change that.
The Neurodiversity Arts Festival of Oulu (NAFO) puts neurodivergent people front and center—as artists, musicians, performers, and theatre-makers. NAFO is a celebration of neurodivergent creativity, expression, and culture.
When we look at neurodivergence through the lens of neurodiversity, we start to see strengths, talents, and unique ways of experiencing the world. Neurodivergent people aren’t broken or lacking. We simply experience, communicate, and understand the world differently. Different doesn’t mean wrong. Neurodivergent communities are a minority with their own culture, creativity, and voice.
Our entire production team is neurodivergent, and our guiding principle is clear: nothing about us without us.
Why NAFO?
The heart of NAFO is about visibility, empowerment, and belonging. We want neurodivergent people to see themselves reflected positively on stage, in galleries, and across the festival. At the same time, we invite wider audiences to discover how powerful, exciting, and essential neurodivergent voices are in art and culture.
Neurodivergent people remain one of the most marginalized groups in Finland, and inclusion is still far from a given. NAFO aims to change this by creating a space where neurodivergent people can participate fully, both as creators and as audiences. We want to build connection, community, and a stronger sense of belonging, while showcasing the bold, original perspectives neurodivergent artists bring to the arts.
At NAFO, neurodiversity is visible and celebrated. There’s no need to mask, hide, or fit into the mainstream—just come as you are.
Who are we?
Pohjois-Suomen Autismikirjo ry (Northern Finland Autism Spectrum Association) is an association for people on the autism spectrum, their families, and professionals. We organize peer support groups for autistic adults and for parents of autistic children, as well as events and activity-based support for children, young people, and their families. Founded in 1996, the association now has around 500 members and is the largest member organization of the Autism Finland. Our mission is to increase autism awareness and advocate for the rights and wellbeing of autistic people and their communities.
