Background Story
Wander’s adventures are more than just stories; they are carefully crafted social narratives that address real-world scenarios and challenges that neurodiverse individuals often face.
Our hope for Wander is that they can be a source of comfort, knowledge, and inspiration. By sharing these stories, she aims to foster a world where neurodiversity is celebrated, and everyone feels empowered to be their true selves. Wander the Neurodiverse Wombat is not just a character—Wander is a companion, a guide, and a friend to all who embark on the journey of understanding and embracing neurodiversity.
Meet the Creator
Wander's Creator: Melissa Biedak
Wander the Neurodiverse Wombat was brought to life by a dedicated team led by Melissa Biedak, an advocate and creative force with a deep passion for neurodiversity. Melissa and her team are driven by a shared commitment to making the world a more inclusive and understanding place, particularly for those who experience the world differently.
Melissa Biedak works closely with neurodiverse individuals at the Neurodiverse Playhouse as an Art Therapist and Podiatrist, and it was through these experiences that the idea for Wander was born. Melissa noticed a gap in the resources available for teaching social skills and emotional understanding to neurodiverse children and adults. She envisioned a character who could not only educate but also connect with these individuals on a personal level, making learning both engaging and relatable.
Motivated by her own experiences and those of the individuals she supports, Melissa set out to create Wander as a tool to help neurodiverse individuals navigate social situations in a way that felt authentic and accessible. She wanted to craft stories that reflect real-life challenges while offering practical solutions and a sense of belonging.
The inspiration behind Wander comes from a place of deep empathy and a desire to make a positive impact. The team understands the importance of representation and inclusion, and they work tirelessly to create stories that celebrate diversity in all its forms. Whether through the kindness of Wander’s character, the humour in their cheeky adventures, or the wisdom in their understanding of diversity, the team’s goal is to make every reader feel seen, supported, and empowered.
By sharing Wander’s stories, Melissa and her team hope to build a bridge of understanding, where neurodiverse individuals and their communities can come together, learn from one another, and celebrate the unique ways we all experience the world.
more about neurodiverse playhouse
Welcome to Neurodiverse Playhouse!
Welcome to the Neurodiverse Playhouse, where everyone is celebrated for who they are!