Meet Fall 2025 NeurodivURGENT Fellow: Demi Cabness

Classification - Senior, Spelman College

During the application process, Demi expressed that her interest in the fellowship stemmed from her passion for mental health and desire to continue building capacity to better support underserved youth and Black women. Moreover, she expressed that the discovery of this opportunity sparked a newfound eagerness to also direct her efforts toward supporting the mental health challenges that often accompany youth and families navigating learning differences such as dyslexia. Having witnessed first-hand the challenges that accompany navigating academic structures not built with neurodivergent individuals in mind, she endeavors to make a direct impact by changing this reality.

For Demi, this opportunity not only represents an opportunity to bridge policy and practice, but also personal interests with professional aspirations. She looks forward to designing spaces that support the social-emotional wellbeing of all people, especially single mothers/caretakers (often women) who find themselves navigating the challenges of parenthood alone. In keeping with the NeurodivURGENT model, she believes in breaking the silos that exist within the helping professions and crafting safe spaces that benefit all children as they grow and develop.

Three things that Demi is most proud of about herself:

1. Relentless drive

2. Creativity

3. Serving as a college ambassador for Silence the Shame

Follow Demi's fellowship journey, here.

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About The NeurodivURGENT Fellowship Program:

The NeurodivURGENT Fellowship program is a semester-long experiential learning opportunity for undergraduate students. Ideal participants are those who possess a strong interest in engaging in the interdisciplinary study of neurodivergent equity, particularly relating to youth and families. The program includes six virtual learning sessions, service learning activities, and a capstone project.

Interested in becoming a Fall 2026 fellow? Complete our interest form here.