IBM has made a commitment to neurodiversity by hiring 10 employees with autism for its Client Innovation Centre in Ballarat. As the autistic community often struggle with traditional job interviews, companies can offer support as well as welcome a diverse workforce on board.

Many are calling lockdown a social nightmare, while others are thriving and can’t imagine going back to ‘normal’. Canvas8 spoke to Jenn Granneman, author of The Secret Lives of Introverts, to understand why certain people love being at home and what brands can do to better cater to them.

Vans has released a sensory-inclusive collection of shoes and apparel to support people with autism and raise awareness. The collection demonstrates a growing demand for neurodiversity recognition, with people expecting brands to meet the needs of the wider community and minority groups.

People have responded to the crisis in different ways – either due to personal choice, privilege, or circumstances outside of their control. Canvas8 spoke to Juliana Horowitz and Dr. Grant McCracken to understand how brands can uncover the nuances of the pandemic experience for their audience.