Dundalk IT students champion Autism representation on Virgin Media’s ‘The Assembly’

Two Dundalk Institute of Technology students are helping to change how autism is represented in the media after taking part in a ground-breaking interview series that puts neurodivergent voices centre stage.

Emily McPhillips Sheridan (21), from Co. Cavan, and Theo Cassidy (22), from Co. Meath, were among the participants in ‘The Assembly’, a recent Virgin Media programme. The four-part series featured autistic and neurodivergent people interviewing well-known public figures, with no question off limits.

For both students, the opportunity was one they embraced immediately, not just as a personal challenge, but as a chance to advocate for better understanding and representation.

Emily, a past pupil of Colaiste Dun na Rí, who now studies social care said she felt strongly about taking part. “I’m so passionate about getting the representation out there, breaking down barriers, breaking down stereotypes. I felt that it was really important to take this opportunity openly and proudly because there are kids at home and young people who may not have any representation.”

Theo, a past pupil of Ardee Community School, who is completing a Skills for Independent Living course at DkIT, shared a similar motivation. Reflecting on his secondary school years, he said there was often a lack of awareness and understanding of autism. “Back then there wasn’t enough education about it,” he said. “But programmes like this are helping people understand more.”

As part of the series, participants came face to face with personalities including Taoiseach Michéal Martin, TV personality Ryan Tubridy and comedian Joanne McNally.

The format of ‘The Assembly’ meant that participants never felt under pressure to conform and could just be themselves. For Emily this felt really natural:  “I was like, this is so me because I would always be a quite direct and honest person, so I feel it really embodied what autistic people are like and was a true celebration of us,” laughed Emily.

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Theo also found the experience exciting rather than intimidating. One of his most memorable moments was interviewing Joanne McNally, whose openness and humour helped him feel at ease. “I shocked myself with some of the things I said,” he laughed. “I wasn’t expecting them to air everything.”

He also asked the Taoiseach a light-hearted question about his dating history, choosing a personal angle rather than politics.

“I was particularly interested in the Taoiseach,” said Theo,” but I did ask him a comedy question instead of a political one because he always gets those.”

Emily, meanwhile, raised a more serious issue with Micheál Martin, asking about the shortage of suitable school places for autistic students. She said she was struck by his empathy and willingness to listen. “He told me he was leaving with a lot to think about,” she said.

Beyond the celebrity interviews, some of the most meaningful moments came from interactions among participants themselves. A highlight for Emily was when fellow cast member Max, who is non-verbal, started to communicate using assistive technology. The technology known as ‘Spell to Communicate’ was only discovered by Max’s parents when he was 19.  Seeing him use it, Emily said, had a profound impact on the group.

Theo has long been interested in politics; a passion sparked by learning Irish history in primary school. As part of his course, he is currently completing work experience in Leinster House with Erin Mc Greehan T.D., where he has attended committee sessions and leaders’ questions. His goal remains clear. “I’d like to go the full way and be Taoiseach someday,” he said.

Emily, while enjoying her social care degree and her work using the arts to support marginalised groups, is now also considering a future in advocacy or media. Her time on the programme, she said, has opened unexpected prospects.

Speaking up for themselves and others has been empowering for Theo and Emily, and they encourage others to do the same. “Your life can really change when you speak up,” says Emily, who was diagnosed with autism at 17 and has built lasting connections by sharing her thoughts online. Theo agrees: “Don’t be nervous — the more you speak up, the more people understand.”

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Both students feel that the experience has given young people with autism a really great platform and the opportunity to be seen. Emily hopes viewers recognise both the strengths autistic people bring and the wide range of ways autism can present. Theo echoed that sentiment. “We are all very different,” he says, “it’s not just one big condition- everyone has their own different issues and everyone has their own different strengths. “

Emily also praised presenter Muireann O'Connell for creating a supportive environment on set and acting as an ally to participants. Reflecting on the public response to the show, she believes it has already made a positive impact. “It’s proof that a show like this can change perspectives,” she says.