About the Founder

Joy Okodute is a dedicated Psychologist, Applied Behaviour Analysis Technician (ABAT), Occupational Therapist, and advocate for children with special needs. With over a decade of experience in Special Educational Needs (SEN), she has worked extensively with neurodivergent children, including those with developmental delays, learning disabilities, and behaviouralchallenges. Her hands-on work focuses on fostering meaningful progress in communication, independence, social interaction, and overall development.

Joy’s journey into the field of special needs is deeply personal and inspiring. She has authored a memoir detailing her experiences and the path that led her to dedicate her career to supporting children with diverse learning needs. 

Her approach is multidisciplinary and evidence-based, integrating psychology, occupational therapy, Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN), and Applied BehaviourAnalysis (ABA) to deliver individualised support tailored to each child’s unique developmental profile. She has extensive experience conducting comprehensive assessments, including the ABLLS (Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills), and producing actionable reports that guide effective intervention strategies. Joy is also skilled in designing and implementing Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) and creating customised learning and intervention materials that support measurable, lasting progress.

Joy holds a Certificate of Achievement in Introduction to Safeguarding and Child Protection, awarded by the Learning Initiative of DSVA (Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency) and OEQA (Office of Education Quality Assurance), demonstrating her commitment to ensuring safe and supportive environments for every child.

She is a strong believer in continuous professional growth and is currently advancing her qualifications through a Professional Diploma in Education (PDE) with the goal of obtaining TRCN certification. Her education and ongoing training reinforce the practical expertise she brings to every child she supports.

As the Founder of Col-hozeh Children Development Foundation, Joy leads initiatives that provide education, training, and support for parents, educators, and caregivers. She also shares practical strategies and therapy tips through her social media presence, broadening access to resources for families and professionals alike.

Joy is also the Founder and Executive Director of Colhozeh Learning Hub, a comprehensive learning centre in Lagos providing daycare and after-school services for children aged 2 to 12, including neurodivergent learners and children requiring additional support. The hub employs structured, child-centred approaches including ABA and Occupational therapy to support development across cognitive, social, emotional, behavioural, motor, and self-help domains.

Currently, she is working on an upcoming comprehensive guide for parents, educators, and professionals, offering practical strategies to effectively support neurodivergent children.

Joy works closely with families and professionals to ensure that every child receives individualised guidance in a nurturing, structured environment. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to unlock the potential in every child and to advocate fiercely for inclusive, compassionate, and informed approaches to neurodevelopmental support.

Every child can learn when given the right support, patience, and opportunity.