A WOMAN from Newquay who founded a business to support neurodivergent and disabled people has been nominated for a national award.

Kerry Pace, who set up Diverse Learners, which provides neurodivergent and disabled students, professionals and workplaces through coaching, mentoring, training and consultancy, has been shortlisted for a National Diversity Award in the positive role model for gender category.

She has more than 30 years’ experience across education, healthcare and disability support, which has included training more than 20.000 nurses.

Kerry has been an inclusion specialist in the Department of Nursing and Midwifery at Plymouth University for more than 10 years.

She is currently an associate lecturer on the return to practice course.

Kerry delivers online sessions remotely from her home in Newquay on resilience, wellbeing and self-care as well as study skills for those looking to get back into nursing and healthcare roles.

Living with ADHD, dyspraxia, C-PTSD and long-term health conditions herself, Kerry uses both her professional expertise and lived experience to shape the person-centred approach at Diverse Learners.

She is also a parent and carer to neurodivergent grown-up children with complex health conditions, giving her a deep understanding of the barriers disabled, and neurodivergent people can face in education, employment and everyday life.

Kerry has worked extensively with NHS Trusts, healthcare professional bodies, dyspraxia charities, universities and employers to improve accessibility, awareness and inclusion, particularly within healthcare and higher education settings.

She has contributed to research and publications focused on inclusive practice in nursing and healthcare education, and regularly delivers training, mentoring and consultancy across the UK and internationally.

Kerry is consistently recognised for her passionate advocacy for inclusive learning and working environments.

The National Diversity Awards, which is celebrating its 15th year, honours the achievements of individuals, community organisations, role models, entrepreneurs, and celebrities who strive to promote diversity and inclusion in all its forms.

A spokesperson for the National Disability Awards said: “Through her work, Kerry empowers individuals to recognise their strengths, develop confidence and thrive without compromising who they are.

“Her advocacy, openness and commitment to representation have made her a respected voice within the neurodiversity and disability community.

“Being nominated for the National Diversity Awards three times, this time being positive role model award for gender reflects her dedication to creating a more inclusive society where disabled and neurodivergent people feel seen, valued and supported.”

Kerry said: “I was really excited to find out I was nominated a few days ago and I have already received 137 votes.

“I have been plodding on doing what I do for years, and I know I do a good job, but it is amazing to see why people are voting for me and the impact I’m making on their lives.”

One of the people who have voted to support Kerry said: “She supported and encouraged me to grow; learn to love parts of me I once despised.”