A University of Northampton graduate is preparing to share his experiences of autism at our annual lecture – an event returning to Northamptonshire after a two-year break due to the pandemic.
Matthew Hardie, who was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of four, is this year’s Terry Arnold Memorial Trust Lecture keynote speaker. Matthew, who is from Corby, graduated from the University of Northampton with a joint honours Law and Criminology Degree and later a Master's in International Criminal Law and Security.
“Autism has provided me with a photographic memory and enables me to think outside the box,” said Matthew. “I have overcome a lot of challenges and really believe autism can be a blessing and not a curse. No matter what your disability or condition is, you can still have a purpose, make a difference, and contribute to society.”
Matthew added: “Having autism is like crash landing on another planet. You struggle make sense of the environment and its inhabitants and then have to learn their way of life and their social institutions, which becomes rather tricky.
“When your mind is programmed to be literal and you cannot read facial expressions, it can make social interactions difficult. My social circle is small, but it is occupied by very good friends who I have known for many years.”
The Terry Arnold Memorial Lectures were first launched in 2003, in memory of the late Terry Arnold - a leading educational psychologist in autism in the late 1980s through to the early 2000s.
Eileen Arnold, co-founder of the Terry Arnold Memorial Trust and wife of the late Terry Arnold, said: “We’ve had some incredible speakers over the years – autistic adults, autism experts, people who work in the sector and so much more. I think it is incredible that so many years after Terry’s death, these lectures are still taking place.
“After two years absence we are keen to re-connect with our regular attendees and to reach all those who have discovered for the first time during those two years, that their lives are touched by autism.”
Matthew added: “My advice, for autistic people as well as their families and carers is simple: ‘Don't give up and don't be too hard on yourself. No one is perfect. Just keep pushing and try and get out of your comfort zone. You have to experience discomfort before you can achieve goals. Life is about learning and having experiences, and from having those experiences, you can learn so much more.’”
This year's Lecture, organised by the Terry Arnold Memorial Trust, is taking place on Thursday 13th October 2022, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Northampton School for Girls.
Tickets are priced £5 to £17. Visit: https://www.terryarnoldlectures.co.uk/
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