I’m Tanya Hicks, CEO of Neurodivergent Empowered, Sparkly Aliens Inc., and Tanya Unveiled. I am passionately dedicated to empowering neurodivergent individuals by creating a community that celebrates their unique strengths. As an autistic woman with ADHD, I’ve built a not-for-profit organisation that defies conventional norms and champions joy, connection, and resilience for neurodivergent people. My mission is to inspire, educate, and empower 1 million autistic and ADHD individuals to live a life of authentic joy and connection.
When did you start your business?
I started Neurodivergent Empowered in 2020, and soon after, its sister organisation, Sparkly Aliens Inc., was founded.
What was the inspiration behind starting this business?
My son was, and continues to be, my greatest inspiration. I wanted to create a world where neurodivergent individuals like him could thrive genuinely, embraced by a community that understands and cherishes their uniqueness. I invited the village, and it’s been an extraordinary, transformative journey ever since.
What are you most excited about in your business?
I’m most excited about seeing neurodivergent individuals reclaim their true selves, celebrate their uniqueness, and build meaningful, lasting connections. The annual birthday parties we host for our clients are especially close to my heart, bringing so much happiness to kids who often feel excluded. Seeing their joy reminds me why I started this mission.
What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?
One of the biggest challenges has been navigating a system that tends to focus on deficits rather than strengths. It’s been tough but incredibly important to carve out a space where neurodivergent voices are not only heard but celebrated for their unique contributions.
What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?
Trust in your vision, even if it feels like you’re going against the grain. Embrace what makes you unique, stay true to your values, and find a community that uplifts and supports you. Authenticity is your greatest asset; lean into it, and don’t be afraid to be different.
Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?
I entered to celebrate my journey of overcoming the odds, to share my story, and to inspire other women to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams, even when it feels like the world isn’t ready for it.
What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
I loved connecting with other inspiring women who are breaking boundaries, building businesses with purpose, and making a real difference in their communities. It was such an uplifting and empowering experience.
What surprised you most about the awards?
I was truly moved by the incredible sense of community and solidarity among the nominees. It felt like being part of a powerful, collective movement of women change-makers who are determined to reshape the world.
How did the awards help you in your business?
The awards have been a powerful catalyst for growth and transformation. They have amplified our mission and opened up new doors for opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations, allowing us to connect with like-minded individuals and organisations. The recognition has given me the confidence to step into new ventures, including becoming a collaborative author and signing a seven-book deal with KMD Books. This journey has empowered me to advocate more boldly for neurodivergent voices in business, leadership, and beyond, inspiring others to believe in their unique path, just as I have learned to believe in mine.
What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?
Just do it! It’s a fantastic opportunity to reflect on your journey, celebrate your wins, and connect with other incredible women who are also making a meaningful impact. The experience itself is priceless.
What has been the best thing about starting your own business?
The best thing has been creating a space where neurodivergent individuals are genuinely seen, heard, and celebrated for exactly who they are. Watching our community, which includes my son and I, grow, thrive, and embrace their uniqueness has been the most rewarding experience of my life.
What’s happening next in your business?
We’re expanding our programs and working on a series of books and online courses, the ‘Sparkly Alien Guide Series,’ to empower neurodivergent individuals in every aspect of life—from achieving athletic success to becoming confident leaders and thriving in their unique ways. In addition, we’re creating an accessible, empowering membership option both in person on the Sunshine Coast and online, designed to nourish and empower the mind, body, and soul of neurodivergent adults. This includes neurodivergent-specific yoga, mindfulness, meditation, parents’ circles, education, and addiction support. It’s all about providing more options and holistic support tailored to our community’s unique needs, helping them find their path to a fulfilling, empowered life.
What are your big plans for the future?
My vision is to empower 1 million autistic and ADHD individuals to live a life of authentic joy and connection through our programs, resources, and community initiatives. We’re working on expanding our reach with the ‘Sparkly Alien Guide Series,’ a collection of books and online courses designed to empower neurodivergent individuals in every facet of life, from athletic success to leadership. Additionally, I’m excited to launch a new, accessible membership option for neurodivergent adults both in person on the Sunshine Coast and online. This initiative will provide tailored support with neurodivergent-specific yoga, mindfulness, meditation, parent circles, education, and addiction support to nourish and empower the mind, body, and soul. My goal is to create a world that truly values and embraces neurodiversity, where every individual feels seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are.
