Spotlight on NeuroNoir CIC: Building Spaces for Black Neurodivergent Women & Queer People

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This article is part of Disability Rights UK’s series highlighting intersectional Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs) across the UK, especially new and emerging groups making waves in their communities. Today, we’re thrilled to feature NeuroNoir CIC, a grassroots organisation creating much-needed spaces for Black neurodivergent women and queer people. Here's their story, and their call for support.

"We Built the Space We Needed"

NeuroNoir CIC is a not-for-profit by and for Black neurodivergent women and queer people, founded by Akua Daniella (known simply as Daniella to many). Born from a gap in mainstream neurodivergent support, NeuroNoir runs joyful, accessible events, from sip & paints to crochet clubs, designed to combat isolation and foster community for those often left on the margins.

What started as an online peer support group during Autism Acceptance Month quickly grew to over 200 members in just two weeks, fueled in part by Daniella’s YouTube channel, @TownofTawiah, where she shares social commentary through a Black neurodivergent lens. By August 2024, NeuroNoir officially launched as a Community Interest Company (CIC), and demand exploded.

Since then, they’ve hosted over 10 in-person events across London, with expansions into Manchester and Essex due to overwhelming interest. Nearly 200 people have attended so far, with many pleading for more frequent events in even more cities.

More Than Just a Safe Space

While NeuroNoir’s events are vibrant and celebratory, they also address systemic challenges. A recurring issue within their community is financial insecurity and workplace exclusion. Many members face inaccessible or hostile employment environments, exacerbating mental health struggles.

NeuroNoir’s long-term vision goes beyond social events: they aim to create paid opportunities, support pathways into sustainable work, and provide peer-led mental health support; ensuring their community thrive.

How You Can Support NeuroNoir’s Growth

To sustain and expand their impact, NeuroNoir is seeking support in two key areas:

1. Funding for Core Needs

  • Venue hire & accessibility: Even well-attended events struggle to break even due to high venue costs and concession rates for attendees.
  • Materials & resources: Yarn, art supplies, games, and refreshments are essential for their sensory-friendly approach.
  • Volunteer pay: Many dedicated volunteers juggle shift work; fair compensation would ensure consistent support.
  • Operational capacity: Help with admin, marketing, and community engagement to grow sustainably.

2. Business Development & Fundraising Support

  • Fundraising strategy: Guidance on grants, donor engagement, and crowdfunding models for grassroots organisations.
  • Income diversification: Exploring merchandising, Patreon/subscriptions, and ethical corporate partnerships.
  • Social enterprise models: Developing consultancy, workshops, or educational resources that align with their mission.
  • Legal/financial literacy: Training in CIC governance, budgeting, and accounting to strengthen their foundation.

Why NeuroNoir Matters

NeuroNoir is filling a critical gap—centring those often excluded from both racial justice and disability spaces. Their work is a testament to the power of community-led solutions. As Daniella puts it:

"We’re in a crucial phase where demand is clear, but infrastructure needs to catch up. With the right support, we can scale our impact and ensure this space exists for those who need it most."

To learn more, partner, or donate, follow NeuroNoir at on Instagram, TikTok or contact admin@neuronoir.net.