How a teenager saw Neurodiverse Kids Struggle - So she built Something Beautiful
Neuroscience & Art
USA
17 Years
I’m April Surac, the founder and creative director of NeuraSensa, a sensory-centered art and neurodesign initiative I started at 16.
I create multisensory art installations and sensory kits that support neurodiverse individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, dementia, and sensory processing differences.
I entered this space through a mix of my upbringing and my growing interest in neuroscience and art. I grew up in my family’s furniture workshop, where I learned the importance of craftsmanship and the care that goes into creating things people can feel and connect with. Being surrounded by materials and textures made me curious about how sensory experiences influence emotion and comfort. As I studied neuroscience, I became interested in how creative, sensory-centered tools can support neurodiverse populations.
"We didn’t set out to start our own company - we saw a problem the world can’t ignore."
What inspired you to start your own business?
I was inspired to start NeuraSensa after seeing how overwhelming public spaces, galleries, and classrooms can be for people with sensory sensitivities. I wanted to design calm, inclusive, and interactive experiences so neurodiverse individuals feel considered instead of excluded.
How did you get your customers?
I first reached people through local community events, school partnerships, and word of mouth. From there, social media, exhibitions, and features helped families, educators, and organizations discover NeuraSensa and request installations and kits.
Serving as a STEM Next Opportunity Fund Flight Crew Ambassador this year has also given me support, resources, and speaking opportunities to continue to share what I am building, which has helped me connect NeuraSensa with more people in my state of Florida and beyond!
How are you doing today and what plans for the future?
Today, NeuraSensa has exhibited in community galleries and events and has distributed sensory kits to families and classrooms. The initiative has also been recognized and supported by organizations including the National Center for Women and Information Technology Aspirations in Computing, Bank of America, Women in Tech Global, Points of Light, and the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes, which will tremendously help us to continue to expand our impact for years to come. I am now working on growing our Sponsor a Kit model, collaborating with therapists and educators, and building larger accessible art installations in public and community spaces across the USA.
What’s the most unexpected thing you’ve learned about entrepreneurship?
The most unexpected thing I’ve learned is how much listening matters. Entrepreneurship in this space is less about having a perfect idea and more about staying close to the community, asking what people actually need, and being willing to adapt.