MRS Unlimited – Lived Experience Forum

A series of webinars where we invite speakers with a disability, neurodiversity and/or health condition working in research agencies or client-side to share how they implement specific actions to contribute to and thrive in an inclusive workplace.

Topic: 

Supporting Dyslexic minds in Market Research - Thinking differently drives better results!

Julie Ellison is an award-winning researcher and experienced qualitative research specialist. She is an active member of the steering group at MRS Unlimited and a firm believer that market research needs to be more inclusive of neurodiverse and disabled people.

In the MRS Unlimited Lived Experience Forum, Julie in conversation with Kathryn Hall, is going to talk about:

• Personal experience of being dyslexic
• How dyslexic profiles and thinking can vary
• Benefits of embracing dyslexic thinking in the research sector
• Challenges dyslexics can face and how this can be managed and supported including the use of technology and AI
• Practical advice that helps everyone – researchers, employers, clients and research participants

Chair:
Kathryn Hall, True Insights

Kathryn is the Founding Director of True Insights. Kathryn has made a significant and award-winning contribution to research across multiple sectors for over 20 years. She is best known for her work helping charities and other organisations including broadcasters reach, connect, engage, and create a sense of belonging for Seldom Heard Audiences.

Kathryn has published on the representation and portrayal of marginalised groups including those with disabilities on TV. She has presented a disruptive innovation (creative thinking) seminar at an Institute of Fundraising Conference and a published paper related to charities at an MRS Annual Conference.

Kathryn has an early-stage certification in counselling and is recognised for her ability to design and execute research with Seldom-Heard Audiences. Kathryn is a Certified Member of the Market Research Society and an MRS Mentor.

Speakers:
Julie Ellison, Emerald Insights

Julie is an award winning researcher, experienced Insight Director and founder of Emerald Insights.

She is a firm believer that market research needs to be more inclusive of neurodiverse and disabled people. Julie has specialist knowledge across a variety of sectors allowing her to engage with a diverse group of participants including seldom heard audiences. Julie is an MRS, ICG & AQR member and an active member of the steering group at MRS Unlimited – a driving force for disability inclusive research.

Emerald Insights specialises in Qualitative & mixed methodology research, leveraging data analytics expertise and the power of AI. We collaborate with partners and work with global brands, commercial organisations, charities, NGO’s and government organisations. Emerald Insights supports innovation, refines brand positioning, conducts comprehensive communication & propositions testing, drives new product development and helps to enhance the usability of products and services for everyone.

Julie is passionate about the need for Disability Inclusion to be reflected in our research practices AND among industry professionals, to achieve a comprehensive understanding of people’s needs, identify opportunities for improvement and to make informed, strategic decisions that have real impact.

Julie is keen to use her experience to advocate for inclusive practices and seeks opportunities to develop and share knowledge in this area, to drive change!