“The diagnosis of my son with autism whipped up a passion for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities after experiencing first hand, the lack of services, competent structures, and policies supporting persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.” – Daisy Esohe Jonathan
In the heart of education and compassion, Daisy Esohe Jonathan stands as a beacon of transformation. An esteemed figure in the realm of Special Education, Daisy’s journey is a tapestry woven with determination, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting lives.
Daisy’s professional voyage is richly textured, reflecting her insatiable hunger for knowledge and her unyielding dedication to those in need. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in English & Literature from the University of Benin and an MBA in Human Resource Management from the University of Wales, United Kingdom, she embarked on a trajectory of development and impact. A Master’s degree in Education from Walden University, USA, and another in Applied Behaviour Analysis from the University of Kent attested to her pursuit of expertise.
However, Daisy’s journey wasn’t solely defined by academia. It was shaped by an indomitable desire to bring positive change. Her professional journey kicked off in the development sector, where she channeled her energies towards creating programs for HIV/AIDS prevention and palliative care, with a focus on sexual and reproductive health. Her involvement with high-risk populations underscored her dedication to social well-being.
The turning point came when her son was diagnosed with autism. This experience ignited a fierce passion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Witnessing the dearth of services and support systems, Daisy’s resolve solidified. She took action by establishing Pleasant Places Schools, offering specialized education for those with learning and developmental disorders. As her mission expanded, she created Pleasant Places Therapy Centres, dedicated to providing tailored therapy and curricula for individuals with complex challenges.
Daisy’s impact, however, isn’t confined within classroom walls. She established Pleasant Places Childcare Foundation, a symbol of her commitment to providing free or highly subsidized education and therapy for individuals with disabilities, particularly autism. Daisy envisions a future where low-cost therapy and training centers thrive in indigent Nigerian communities.
Beyond education and therapy, Daisy wears the mantle of an advocate and speaker, bringing a unique perspective to national and international conferences. As the convenor of Warrior Mum Africa, a support group uniting over 600 mothers of children with special needs from 17 countries, she fosters a network of empowerment and empathy.
Currently working on initiatives like Applied Behavior Analysis training, empowering parents to provide interventions through her IMPACT programs, collaborating with other schools to establish special needs units and inclusive structures and conducting research to inform social policies, Daisy’s journey embodies a symphony of passion and expertise. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of empathy, education, and unwavering determination to create a more inclusive world.
