Every day, many people navigate a world that was not built with them in mind. They show up to work, to school, and to social events while managing challenges that others simply cannot see. Talos Foundation understands this reality. Founded in Hong Kong, this charitable organisation is working to change how communities see and support neurodiversity.
In this article, we explore the work of Talos Foundation, its three-pillar approach to inclusion, and the story behind its Invisible Differences campaign. Whether you are a supporter, an educator, or simply curious to learn more, read on.
What Is Talos Foundation?
Talos Foundation is a Section 88 charitable organisation based in Hong Kong. It was founded in 2021 by a parent of an autistic child who experienced firsthand the lack of support and understanding that neurodivergent individuals often face. Since then, the foundation has been working to advance neurodiversity awareness in Hong Kong and the Asia Pacific region.
At its core, Talos Foundation seeks to address the widespread lack of awareness and inclusion of neurodivergent individuals. The foundation believes that every person — regardless of how their brain is wired — deserves to be understood, respected, and included.
Neurodiversity refers to the natural range of differences in human brain function and behavior. This includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and many other conditions. Many of these differences are not visible to others. That is why awareness efforts like those of Talos Foundation matter.
The Three Pillars of Talos Foundation
Talos Foundation works through three defined pillars. Together, these pillars form a practical approach to building a more inclusive society.
1. Community Awareness
The first pillar is community awareness. Talos Foundation distributes free bilingual lanyards and buttons to neurodivergent individuals, their families, and their caregivers. These items display the Talos universal symbol and serve as a visible sign of self-identification. They help people communicate their needs without having to explain their condition in detail. Distribution points are available across Hong Kong.
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2. Corporate Awareness and Training
The second pillar focuses on corporate awareness. Talos Foundation partners with businesses to deliver neurodiversity training programs. These workshops help employees and managers recognize, understand, and support neurodivergent colleagues. The foundation drives meaningful change in employment and education, and hopes to expand further into healthcare.
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3. Employment Normalization
The third pillar is employment normalization. Talos Foundation organizes a monthly employment event called Splice the Mainbrace — held every third Thursday of the month — that brings people together to support neurodiversity in the workforce. These events recruit servers from local special needs schools. Participants gain hands-on experience in food and beverage service, and the events give neurodivergent individuals the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in a real-world setting.
Understanding Invisible Differences
A key concept behind Talos Foundation’s mission is invisible differences. Many neurodivergent conditions are not immediately visible to others. As a result, individuals who live with autism, ADHD, or other conditions often go unrecognized and unsupported. They are expected to keep up with neurotypical society — often at great personal cost.
To raise awareness around this issue, Talos Foundation is currently producing an animated short film titled Invisible Differences, directed by Joanna Bowers. This film aims to shift the conversation from stigma to understanding and from silence to visibility. The goal is for the film to be shown in schools, universities, workplaces, and public institutions across Hong Kong.
Check the Invisible Differences.
How Talos Supports the Community
Through its lanyards and buttons program, Talos Foundation helps neurodivergent individuals communicate their needs in everyday situations. In a busy city like Hong Kong, this simple tool can make a real difference in how people are treated and understood.
Through its corporate training programs, Talos Foundation helps organisations build more inclusive environments. The monthly Splice the Mainbrace events give neurodivergent individuals the chance to develop practical skills and connect with potential employers.
Why Neurodiversity Awareness Matters
Neurodiversity is not a flaw. It is a natural part of human variation. However, without awareness and education, neurodivergent individuals are often overlooked. They may face misunderstanding at school, challenges at work, and a sense of isolation in their communities.
Talos Foundation is working to change this. By bringing neurodiversity into the spotlight, the foundation encourages society to recognize that different does not mean less. Neurodivergent individuals have real strengths and perspectives that are valuable to workplaces and communities.
Raising awareness is not just an act of kindness — it is a responsibility we all share. When people understand invisible differences, everyone benefits.
Read: Why Neurodiversity Awareness Matters: Building Inclusive Communities, Schools, and Workplaces
How to Support Talos Foundation
There are several ways to support the work.
First, you can donate directly through the foundation’s website. Your contribution helps fund community programs, the Invisible Differences animated film, and training initiatives across Hong Kong.
Second, you can spread the word. Sharing information about neurodiversity within your network helps reduce stigma and build understanding.
Third, if you are a business owner or manager, consider partnering with Talos Foundation for corporate neurodiversity training. Building an inclusive workplace is both a responsibility and an opportunity.
Finally, you can support the Invisible Differences animated film fundraiser. This film is being created to help more people in Hong Kong learn about neurodiversity and invisible differences.
Conclusion: Supporting Neurodiversity with Talos Foundation
Talos Foundation is a Hong Kong charity doing meaningful work to raise awareness and create inclusion for neurodivergent individuals. Through community outreach, corporate training, and employment events, the foundation is building understanding one step at a time.
The Invisible Differences campaign is a reminder that the challenges people cannot see are just as real as the ones they can. Supporting us is one way to be part of that change.
To learn more and get involved, visit our Talos website.