--- title: "Virtual Innovation Supports The Truth About Dyslexia Project | Virtual Innovation" description: "Stephen Martin, a co-founder of Virtual Innovation, is one of the many adults with dyslexia who has found ways to overcome his challenges and succeed in life." canonical: "https://virtualinnovation.co.nz/stephen-martins-journey-with-dyslexia/" language: en-NZ --- [Skip to content](#main-content) On this page Quick answer Stephen Martin, a co-founder of Virtual Innovation, is one of the many adults with dyslexia who has found ways to overcome his challenges and succeed in life. ![Virtual Innovation Supports The Truth About Dyslexia Project article image for Virtual Innovation](/blog-images/stephen-martins-journey-with-dyslexia.webp) Virtual Innovation Supports The Truth About Dyslexia Project article image for Virtual Innovation Stephen Martin, co-founder of Virtual Innovation, is one of many adults who live with **dyslexia**—a neurological condition that affects reading, writing, spelling, and language processing. While this condition presents daily challenges, Stephen has embraced it as a core part of his identity, shaping the way he sees the world and approaches life. His commitment to helping others led him to create _The Truth About Dyslexia Project_, a movement that aims to raise awareness, provide education, and foster community for adults with learning differences and ADHD. --- ### Understanding Dyslexia: More Than Just a Reading Issue ![Student struggling to decode written text on a page](/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/dyslzxeia_img-300x199.jpg "Web Design Image") **Dyslexia** affects an estimated 10–20% of the population (Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity). It is one of the most common neurodevelopmental differences, yet it remains misunderstood. People with this condition may struggle with: - Decoding written language - Organising thoughts into written form - Processing auditory or written instructions - Retaining verbal information However, this condition also brings strengths such as creativity, big-picture thinking, and strong spatial awareness—traits that helped Stephen succeed both personally and professionally. --- ### Early Diagnosis and Support for Learning Differences ![Dyslexia specialist and client in consultation session](/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/dyslzxeia_img4-300x199.jpg "Web Design Image") Stephen was diagnosed with this condition at just ten years old. He faced classroom challenges, especially with tasks like reading aloud or copying from the blackboard. Fortunately, he received assistance through a reader-writer—a pivotal form of support that enabled him to pass his School Certificate with high marks in six subjects. --- ### The Turning Point: Learning Differences Beyond Childhood ![Therapy session discussing emotional impact of dyslexia](/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/dyslzxeia_img3-300x199.jpg "Web Design Image") Like many adults with learning differences, Stephen thought he had “outgrown” his challenges after school. But at 31, a wave of anxiety and frustration led him to see Vanessa Victor, a specialist at _Remarkable Minds_. That decision changed everything. During a two-hour consultation, Stephen realised that this condition wasn’t just about reading or spelling—it also affected memory, emotional regulation, and even how he processed sound and vision. --- ### Embracing the Dyslexic Mind: A Vivid Example In one memorable moment, a loud hammering sound during the consultation triggered Stephen’s mind to visualise a deck being built—even though he had never seen it. Vanessa explained that this mental visualization was a classic example of the dyslexic brain creating vivid images that can blur the line between imagination and memory. --- ### From Personal Growth to Advocacy: The Truth About Learning Differences Project Motivated by his breakthroughs, Stephen launched _The Truth About Dyslexia Project_. This initiative includes: - A top-ranking **Learning Differences Podcast** with over 750,000 downloads - A blog offering insights on managing adult learning differences - Online resources and community support - Stories of success from others with this condition The project empowers adults with learning differences to unlock their potential in work, relationships, and everyday life. --- ### Changing Perceptions Around Learning Differences A major goal of the project is breaking the stigma. Many still view **dyslexia** as a sign of laziness or low intelligence, which can lead to shame or withdrawal. Stephen’s story offers a different narrative—one of strength, creativity, and the power of neurodiversity. --- ### Virtual Innovation: Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace Stephen’s company, **Virtual Innovation**, actively promotes inclusivity and support for neurodiverse employees. The team offers: - Flexible work arrangements - Assistive technologies - Training and mentoring for employees with learning differences This forward-thinking approach ensures that individuals with learning differences thrive in a professional environment that values their unique contributions. --- ## Dyslexia Is Not a Disability—It’s a Different Ability ![Illustration showing “Dyslexia Is Not a Disability” with empowering message](/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/dyslzxeia_img5-300x199.jpg "Web Design Image") Stephen Martin’s journey with **dyslexia** is more than just a personal tale—it’s a beacon of hope and advocacy for others navigating similar paths. Through _The Truth About Dyslexia Project_, he’s fostering a global conversation around understanding, supporting, and empowering people with dyslexia. Need a hand? ## Let’s make your website work harder. Tell us what is slow, clunky or costing you leads. We will show you a practical next step. 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