OUR STORY
Our Story
Welcome to Diverse Minds Events, formerly known as The Big White Coach Events. I am Gail Walker and I founded The Big White Coach in 2019 and we continue to provide sensory and wellbeing environments, along with creative activity experiences, for events across Northern Ireland and Ireland.
My journey into this field began in the creative world of graphic design and marketing, where I spent over 20 years in the events industry. However, it was the experience of becoming a mother that truly reshaped my path.
In 2014, I became a mother to my son, and in 2017, to my daughter. When my son received his diagnosis of autism at age three, it marked the beginning of an incredible journey into understanding neurodiversity. The challenges we faced, particularly in public spaces and events, fueled my mission to create a more inclusive world — one where families like mine could fully participate without feeling isolated or excluded.
The Big White Coach Events became a beacon of hope for families needing sensory-friendly spaces and inclusive experiences. Over the past five years, this brand has allowed us to create safe, welcoming environments at all types of events. Although the mobile coach service is no longer a part of our offerings, our passion for neuro-inclusivity remains stronger than ever.
At Diverse Minds Events, we’re continuing this important work, focusing on accessibility and inclusion for everyone. In addition to our events services, I’ve expanded my knowledge and qualifications by becoming a certified trainer in the Cothú Parenting Programme through Ausome Training in Ireland and I have gained a professional certificate from the London School of Business in Event Accessibility and Inclusion. I am also studying to gain my CPACC certification from the IAAP to further deepen my expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a focus on neuro-inclusivity within the event industry.
My commitment to advocacy is also at the heart of what we do. I volunteer with CYPSP and CINI, working to ensure that the voices of parents, particularly those of children with disabilities, are heard and understood. This advocacy work is deeply personal to me — as I believe that change only happens when parent voices are actively involved in shaping policy and creating better opportunities for all families. I dedicate countless hours to this cause to help bring about meaningful change in Northern Ireland.
At Diverse Minds, my family and I — along with an incredible team — are committed to ensuring every event is accessible, welcoming, and inclusive. We believe that by embracing neurodiversity and supporting advocacy efforts, we can navigate possibilities together.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Feel free to explore the site and reach out if you have any questions.
Date: 2022
The Big White Coach –
Best Event Planning Service (Shortlisted)
The Big White Coach was shortlisted for Best Event Planning Service at the UK Event Industry Awards, celebrating its creative event solutions and ability to deliver memorable experiences.
Date: 2023
The Big White Coach Events –
Business Excellence Awards (Finalist)
The Big White Coach Events Ltd was a finalist in the Business Excellence Awards, recognising the company for its exceptional service and dedication to customer experience and event management.
Date: 2024
Armagh I Awards – Entrepreneur of the Year (2024)
Gail Walker was nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year at the Armagh I Awards, recognizing her exceptional leadership and innovative approach in both Diverse Minds Events and The Big White Coach Events Ltd.
Armagh I Awards Finalists
Date: October 2024
AIB Business Eye Awards – Diversity and Inclusion Category
Diverse Minds Events was nominated in the Diversity and Inclusion category, celebrating Northern Ireland’s business excellence and the commitment to inclusivity within the events sector.
Date: July 2024
Innovation in Accessibility Award
Diverse Minds Events was shortlisted for the Innovation in Accessibility Award, acknowledging its innovative approach to creating accessible and inclusive events.
