Who is Jennifer Althaus?

Jennifer Althaus is the founder and CEO of Orange Elephants Creative Minds, an umbrella organisation advancing neuro-affirming support, creative mentoring, and justice-sector reform across Australia. With a background in Criminal Justice, Autism Studies, and postgraduate study in Forensic Mental Health, Jennifer brings together professional expertise and lived experience to advocate for systemic change.

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Her work focuses on neurodivergent youth, complex needs, and the intersection between identity and the criminal justice system. Through training, keynote presentations, advocacy, and community-based initiatives including Blue Baboons Reform Alliance, Jennifer challenges deficit-based narratives and promotes identity-affirming, culturally responsive practice.

Jennifer is also an author and creative practitioner, using storytelling and abstract art to amplify voices often unheard. Her philosophy is simple: difference is not a weakness — it is a direction.