Foreword
“Stefan our beautiful, kind, and funny boy”
“In March 2022, we lost a remarkable son and brother, Stefan. At just 15 years old, he reported relentless bullying at his Saturday job for being autistic. Tragically, he died by suicide feeling the weight of societal judgment, compounded by failures from the very statutory services meant to protect him.
“Stefan, a beautiful, kind, funny, and thoughtful young man, consistently brightened the lives of those around him with humour and his acts of kindness to others who were lost, lonely or isolated due to their difference.
“In February 2024, STefans’ Acts of Kindness – STAK.life was started to honour his memory by continuing his work, extending compassion to those marginalised by society due to differences.
“Let us strive to educate and advocate for neurodivergent individuals, ensuring that Stefan’s spirit lives on in a world that embraces neuro-affirming diversity and kindness.”
Tristan, Emma & Ellie x
Tristan Kluibenschadl
Director and Co-founder
Tristan, neurodivergent himself, holds a significant role as a core national trainer for the Anna Freud Centre’s National Autistic Training Program in London. This train the trainer program, commissioned by NHS England, focuses on training mental health and youth justice professionals. Additionally, Tristan conducts training sessions for NHS staff, specifically addressing learning disabilities and autism on behalf of MENCAP. A National Autistic Society trained facilitator, his expertise extends to collaborations with the University of Kent & Medway Medical School, and the Kent Autistic Trust. Tristan, an active member of the National Police Autism Association and various neurodiversity panels, has spearheaded initiatives within policing. His unwavering commitment lies in fostering understanding and support for neurodivergent individuals within educational and law enforcement settings, extending to various organizations and businesses.
Emma Kluibenschadl
Director and Co-founder
Emma, a qualified teacher with over two decades of experience, has dedicated her career to supporting neurodivergent children, young people, and their families through training, consultancy, and one-on-one assistance. In 2018, she founded The SEND Trainer Limited, providing support and services nationally. Emma’s qualifications also include being a certified play and creative art therapist, offering valuable clinical support to children and young people in the local community.
Eve Stickler
Director
Eve Stickler joins the board of STAK with over 30 years senior strategic leadership experience in Local Authorities Children’s Services, Education departments and voluntary sector organisations. She has an outstanding track record of improving outcomes for children and young people and their families. Her work has spanned the development of preventative services for children from their earliest beginnings, through to their key transition points within the education system: early years, SEND services, youth provision, family support and adult learning. Her passion for the creative arts and support for children and families with SEND and mental health challenges draw on her personal experiences and she is delighted to take up the role of Director on the STAK board.
Donna Sherred
Director and Safeguard Lead
With over 30 years of experience as a Nursery Nurse, Donna has honed their expertise in child development, effective communication, and fostering positive learning environments. Her specialist skills as a SENDco have equipped her to understand and support young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). As an experienced Designated Safeguarding Lead, she prioritises the safety and protection of all young people under her care by implementing comprehensive safeguarding policies, conducting thorough risk assessments, and providing staff training. Additionally, Donna’s counselling training enables her to offer emotional support during challenging times. She is dedicated to creating inclusive affirming environments and ensuring the safety of all children and young people.
Jake Cowx
Stak.life Volunteer
Jake is a neurodivergent disabled person from Westgate-on-Sea, with multiple years’ experience in business administration, project administration / organisation and bookkeeping. Getting stuck in behind the scenes, STAK.life is both for a cause close to his heart as a neurodivergent person and on a personal level.