Who I am
I am a Queer, neurodivergent writer, educator, and EDI consultant with a PhD in theatre and LGBTQ+ cultural history. I design engaging workshops that combine cultural storytelling, historical insights, and practical inclusion strategies. My work promotes empathy, confidence, and creativity—making EDI accessible, actionable, and inspiring.
Workshop Menu (selectable, modular formats)
LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Fundamentals
Explore terminology, identity, and cultural representation through history and pop culture. Inclusive and light-touch, perfect for kick-starting your EDI journey and reinforcing allyship.
Formats: Standalone session, half-day, or series
Know Your History
Uncover hidden legacies of LGBTQ+ activism—from Section 28 to the AIDS crisis—through theatre, film, and cultural narratives. Participants leave with deeper contextual insight and a stronger connection to community advocacy.
Ideal for: Pride Month, equity days, staff learning
Neurodiversity Inclusion
Building on lived experience, this workshop offers practical strategies to support neurodivergent colleagues. Includes adjustments, communication styles, and inclusive design principles.
Designed for: HR teams, leadership workshops, colleague training
Storytelling for Inclusion
Engage participants with creative writing, performance, and narrative-building centred on their experiences and cultures. Excellent for diversity days or team-building initiatives.
Perfect for: Creative sectors, internal culture sessions
Tailored Full-Day Training Package
A blended learning journey covering LGBTQ+ inclusion, neurodiversity, history, and storytelling. Ideal for organisations committing to a strategic EDI refresh. Includes workshop delivery, reflection, and action planning.
Why me and my workshops?
- Rooted in lived experience—as a disabled, neurodivergent, Asexual, non-binary person, I bring authenticity and empathy to learning spaces.
- Story-driven—I use theatre and cultural narratives to bring EDI concepts to life, creating emotionally resonant learning.
- Evidence-based—my PhD and writing credentials affirm scholarly grounding.
- Creative and adaptable—whether online or in-person, large group or intimate session, I tailor to your audience’s needs.
- Results-focused—sessions spark insight, prompt behaviour change, and leave attendees feeling seen, empowered, and prepared to act.
Past Clients & Collaborations
- Bishopsgate Institute – LGBTQ+ literature and queer cultural history courses
- London Playwrights Workshop – Issue-based creative writing workshops
- Mencap Cymru / Makers Guild Wales – Inclusive storytelling and digital outreach projects
Let’s talk formats & next steps.
Whether you need a short session, a full-day workshop, or a week-long series, I can build something uniquely aligned to your goals.
Interested in exploring options or continuing with a small pilot? I’d love to have a quick discovery chat.
Get in touch: EmilyMGarside@gmail.com
Emily Garside 