Hello, I am Victoria Joel
Social Entrepreneur and Founder of COHA
vickyjoel13@gmail.com
Phone
+264 81 666 4074
Visionary Leader and Award-Winning Entrepreneur
Victoria Joel is a 31-year-old social entrepreneur and an Olafika SMEs and Mentorship
graduate, awarded the 2020 Most Diligent Entrepreneur of the Year. She is a devoted, trained
special needs teacher with seven years of teaching experience in four different schools.
Trained by SES Experts from Germany, she has passionately advocated for children with
Autism Spectrum Disorder and other intellectual disabilities for the past ten years, serving as
an expert and mentor.
Founder of the First Inclusive School in Northern Namibia
In 2019, she established the Circle of Hope Private Academy (COHA), the sole inclusive school in northern Namibia dedicated to all children, including those with Autism, Down syndrome, and other intellectual disorders. As the Director and Principal of COHA, she manages both its primary and Basic Prevocational sections, impacting numerous lives alongside a dedicated team of teachers and administrators. Her journey has been marked by challenges, including community stigma during her startup in 2019. However, her persistence paid off with COHA's registration approval by the Ministry of Education in 2022, a significant milestone as the first registered private inclusive school in the northern regions.
Dedicated Educator and International Trainer
In addition to her teaching career, from 2019 to 2023, she provided in-person training to teachers on inclusive education in Namibia, Botswana, Angola, and Zambia. She also delivered online international training to student teachers at two universities in India. Locally, she presented in-person open lectures to student teachers and student nurses from the University of Namibia, reflecting her determination to address community needs by providing awareness.
Champion of Inclusive Education and Community Leader
Despite initial hurdles, the transformative impact on learners and families fuels her drive to expand COHA to other regions, promising a brighter future for inclusive education in Namibia and beyond. COHA was awarded "The Best Basic Disability Inclusive Education Institute" by the National Disability Council of Namibia in 2023. Her volunteerism in mental health awareness and wellness has also been acknowledged by the Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, who appointed her as a Mental Health Board member in August 2023. In her community, she also serves as a business leader, being elected as the vice-chairperson of the Ondangwa branch of the Namibian Chamber of Commerce and Industry since 2019 to date.
Experiences
WordPress Expert
Graphic and Web Designer
WordPress Expert
Education
University of Belgrade
Faculty of Economics, Belgrade Graphic
Faculty of Mathematics
Professional skills​
You’ve have Any Questions?
Frequently asked questions
1. What makes COHA unique compared to other schools in the region?
Circle of Hope Private Academy (COHA) is the first registered inclusive private school in northern Namibia. We provide a nurturing and supportive environment for all children, including those with Autism, Down syndrome, and other intellectual disabilities. Our approach integrates specialized support with a mainstream education, ensuring every child can thrive.
2. How does COHA support children with special needs?
At COHA, we offer tailored educational programs and individualized support for children with special needs. Our dedicated team of trained educators and specialists work closely with each student to address their unique learning requirements, ensuring they receive the personalized attention they need to succeed.
3. How can I enroll my child at COHA?
To enroll your child at COHA, please visit our admissions page on our website or contact our office directly. We provide detailed information on the application process, including required documents and key deadlines. Our admissions team is here to guide you through every step and answer any questions you may have.
Get in touch with me
Feel free to contact me through LinkedIn or Email if you prefer!