About Autivate - The Story Behind Cambridgeshire's Neurodivergent-Friendly Maker Space
Our Mission
Creating a calm, supportive environment where autistic and ADHD individuals can explore, learn, and create without pressure or judgment.
The Story Behind Autivate
I'm autistic, and I've spent years trying to fit into spaces that weren't designed for minds like mine. Traditional maker spaces felt overwhelming - too loud, too social, too rushed. I'd leave feeling more anxious than when I arrived, despite being passionate about technology and making.
After years of masking and struggling in neurotypical environments, I realized something important: the problem wasn't me. The problem was that these spaces weren't designed for neurodivergent people.
So I created the space I wish had existed when I was starting my journey with technology and creativity.
What I learned from my own experience:
- Masking is exhausting - you shouldn't have to pretend to be neurotypical to learn
- Small groups work better - I focus much better with 1-2 people than in a crowd
- Following interests leads to real learning - my special interests became my strengths
- Sensory environment matters - the right lighting and noise levels make all the difference
- There's no "right" way to learn - neurodivergent brains process information differently, and that's a strength
Why choose Autivate over other maker spaces?
Cambridge has several maker spaces, but they're designed for neurotypical people. Here's what makes Autivate different:
Traditional Maker Spaces vs Autivate
| Traditional Spaces | Autivate |
|---|---|
| Open workshop with 10-20+ people | Maximum 3 people, usually 1-to-1 |
| Expect you to be social and collaborative | No pressure to socialize - work at your own pace |
| Fixed curriculum and structured lessons | Follow your interests and special topics |
| Neurotypical instructors who may not understand | Autistic mentor with lived experience |
| Bright lights, background noise, busy environment | Sensory-friendly: calm lighting, managed noise |
What Makes Autivate Special
Autistic Leadership
Autivate is run by an autistic mentor who understands firsthand the challenges and strengths of neurodivergent thinking. This lived experience shapes every aspect of how we operate, from session structure to communication style.
Sensory-Friendly Environment
Our studio in Soham, Cambridgeshire is designed to be a calm, low-pressure environment. We manage noise levels, lighting, and social dynamics to create a space where neurodivergent individuals can focus and thrive.
Flexible, Interest-Led Learning
We don't follow rigid curricula. Instead, we let your interests and curiosity guide the learning process. Whether you're fascinated by electronics, coding, 3D printing, or ceramics, we adapt to support your unique learning journey.
No Masking Required
At Autivate, you can be yourself. Stimming, special interests, and neurodivergent communication styles are welcomed and celebrated, not suppressed or "corrected."
Our Approach to Neurodivergent Learning
The Autivate Method
- Start Small: All sessions are 1-to-1 or maximum 3 people to reduce overwhelm
- Follow Interests: We use your natural curiosity and special interests as learning pathways
- Hands-On Exploration: Learning through making, not just talking
- Zero Pressure: No deadlines, competitions, or performance anxiety
- Sensory Awareness: We monitor and adjust the environment for comfort
- Celebrate Differences: Neurodivergent thinking styles are strengths, not deficits
Supporting the Neurodivergent Community in Cambridgeshire
Autivate serves the broader Cambridge area, including Ely, Soham, and surrounding villages. We're part of a growing movement to create more inclusive, accessible learning environments for neurodivergent people.
Our location in Soham provides a quieter, less overwhelming alternative to busy Cambridge city center, while remaining accessible to the neurodivergent community across Cambridgeshire.
Values That Guide Us
- Neurodivergent Pride: We celebrate autistic and ADHD ways of thinking and being
- Individual Pace: Everyone learns differently and at their own speed
- Interest-Led: Passion and curiosity are the best teachers
- Safety First: Both physical and emotional safety are paramount
- Community: Building connections within the neurodivergent community
- Accessibility: Making maker education available to all, regardless of background
Ready to Explore?
Whether you're autistic, have ADHD, or are otherwise neurodivergent, Autivate is here to support your creative journey. No experience necessary - just bring your curiosity.
Start with our free 1-hour intro session - no strings attached.