05/04/2026
Victoria Joel is a prominent Namibian social entrepreneur and passionate advocate for inclusive education, particularly for children and young adults with special needs such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down syndrome, and other intellectual disabilities.
Based in northern Namibia (Ongwediva/Ondangwa, Oshana region), she founded and serves as Director and Principal of Circle of Hope Private Academy (COHA) in 2019 — the only inclusive private school in the region that integrates children with special needs into mainstream education while providing personalized support. She is also the founder of the COHA Vocational Training Centre in Ondangwa, an inclusive initiative offering practical vocational skills training (including elementary technical training, specialized programs in trades like Brick layering , clothing and fashion design, hospitality, and joinery) to prepare learners aged 16+ for employment, with a focus on those with disabilities.
With over a decade of experience as a special needs teacher (trained by experts from Germany and South Africa), Victoria holds the prestigious Certified in Autism certification from IBCCES (International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards). This credential further strengthens her expertise in supporting autistic individuals and families with evidence-based practices, greater understanding, and impactful strategies.
She has dedicated her career to raising awareness, combating stigma, and ensuring quality education and vocational opportunities for all, emphasizing that every child and young adult is “differently able” and deserves opportunities to thrive.
Her achievements include:
• Being selected as a 2024 Mandela Washington Fellow (focusing on leadership in business and entrepreneurship at Drake University).
• Launching innovative tools like an inclusive education app.
• Training internationally in countries such as Botswana, Angola, Zambia, and India.
• Receiving awards for disability-inclusive education.
COHA and its vocational centre continue to expand under her leadership, promoting mental health advocacy alongside inclusive practices.
