Board of Trustees
Every great achievement begins with visionary leadership. Our Board of Trustees establishes the guiding policies of our organisation, ensuring that we remain focused on our mission.
Mrs. Ifeyinwa Anastasia Onyema
Board Chairperson
Ifeyinwa Anastasia Onyema embarked on her journey as an autism advocate in 2008 at the Centre for Autism and Developmental Disabilities (CADD), where she dedicated six transformative years to supporting neurodiverse children and their families. Her commitment to this cause has been instrumental in raising awareness and improving the lives of those affected by autism.
Currently, Ifeyinwa serves as the CEO and Managing Director of TripleChikitchen, a thriving culinary venture based in Port Harcourt. Under her leadership, the business has flourished, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to excellence.
Beyond her professional endeavours, Ifeyinwa is a devoted mother and adventure enthusiast. She seamlessly blends her roles as a business leader and a family-oriented individual, driven by her compassion for others and a desire to make a positive impact in her community.
Her multifaceted life reflects a deep commitment to both her family and her advocacy work, making her an inspiring leader on the Elim-Bridge Autism and Neurodevelopment Foundation’s board of directors.
Mrs. Chidinma Nwokolo (MSc.)
Co-founder/Secretary
Mrs. Chidinma Nwokolo is a seasoned communication expert with over 10 years of experience in Integrated Marketing, Corporate Communications, and Technology. She has successfully assisted small to medium-sized businesses in enhancing their brand identity, visibility, and design strategies. Additionally, she leads organizational recruitment efforts and assessment processes, ensuring that the right talent is brought on board.
A proud graduate of the University of Benin, Mrs. Nwokolo finished as the best graduating student in Mass Communication and went on to earn a Master’s degree in Communications. Her passion for research and academia has driven her to pursue further studies beyond her Master’s.
In 2018, after relocating to Warri, she discovered her interest in special needs education. Motivated to understand communication delays in children with special needs, she began taking short courses in Speech and Language Pathology, as well as various certifications including Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) and TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and Communication Handicapped Children).
An avid reader and adventure seeker, Mrs. Nwokolo is committed to leveraging her communication expertise to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with autism and related disabilities through her role at the Elim-Bridge Autism and Neurodevelopment Foundation (EanF).
Dr. Chijioke Chris Nwokolo
Founder/Executive Director
Dr. Chijioke Chris Nwokolo is a US-licensed TEACCH-certified practitioner with a profound commitment to supporting children with autism and related disabilities since 2008. His journey began as an autism support worker at Autism Associates, where he developed a strong foundation in autism intervention. Dr. Nwokolo has since expanded his expertise through international training programmes, including the TEACCH autism programme at the University of North Carolina and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) training at the Carolina Centre for ABA.
A passionate advocate for inclusive education, Dr. Nwokolo has successfully integrated numerous children into mainstream schools across Nigeria. He holds a PhD in medical/clinical biochemistry and has conducted pioneering research on potential environmental triggers associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In 2017, he facilitated free heavy metals testing for 50 Nigerian children with autism, showcasing his dedication to improving their lives.
Recognising the need for expanded support, Dr. Nwokolo founded the Elim-Bridge Autism and Neurodevelopment Foundation (EanF) in 2017. Under his leadership, EanF has become a leading centre for therapeutic services in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria, focussing on staff training and providing subsidised services to underprivileged families.
Dr. Nwokolo’s dedication and expertise continue to transform lives as he strives to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with autism and related disabilities.
Mrs. Grace Onwuzulike
Treasurer
Mrs. Grace Onwuzulike is a dedicated educator with over a decade of experience in physical and health education, specializing in nurturing young minds through athletics and gymnastics. Her commitment to her students’ physical well-being is evident in her engaging teaching methods and supportive approach.
As a proud mother and grandmother, Mrs. Onwuzulike has raised two sons who achieved the remarkable honor of captaining the Nigerian National Cricket Team. Beyond her educational pursuits, she has successfully ventured into the fashion industry, where she runs a thriving clothing business.
A devout Christian, Mrs. Onwuzulike actively participates in Christian organizations focused on intercessory prayer for both the Church and the nation of Nigeria. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading, and exploring new destinations, adding richness to her vibrant personality.
Her diverse experiences and unwavering dedication to education and community make her an invaluable member of the Elim-Bridge Autism and Neurodevelopment Foundation’s board of directors.
Advisory Board Members
Dr. Okey-Martins Nwokolo
Member
Dr. Mazi Okey-Martins Nwokolo has been dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and autism since 2002. He founded Autism Associates and co-founded the Center for Autism & Developmental Disabilities (CADD). Trained by leading experts through the University of Lagos’s Psychology program, Dr. Nwokolo advocates for early identification and comprehensive intervention using a person-centred, solution-focused approach grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis.
As a Certified Behavior Analyst licensed in Virginia, Texas, and Georgia, he currently serves as a psychologist for the state of Texas and has been an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Counseling at Bluefield University. Dr. Nwokolo is also an advisory board member of the Elim-Bridge Autism and Neurodevelopment Foundation (EanF), where he continues to advance our mission to support individuals with autism and related disorders.
Mrs Adeife Onwuzulike
Member
Mrs. Adeife is the Global Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Wellbeing, where she partners with organizations to foster inclusive work environments. With over 12 years of experience in HR and DEI across various industries, including FTSE 350 companies and non-profits, she provides expert guidance through workshops and talks.
Holding an MSc in Human Resource Management from King’s College London, Adeife is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD and a recognized thought leader in DEI. She speaks globally on topics such as building high-performance teams and creating inclusive workplaces.
In addition to her advisory role at EanF, Adeife founded a professional network for DEI practitioners and a community supporting mothers in balancing career and well-being. A devoted wife and mother, she is passionate about mentoring and advocating for working mothers to advance their careers and mental health.
Mr. Austine Okiye
Member
Mr. Austin Okiye is a distinguished auditor and seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. He holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and brings a wealth of expertise in financial oversight and governance to Elim-Bridge Autism and Neurodevelopment Foundation (EanF).
As a member of our advisory board, Mr. Okiye is dedicated to enhancing our commitment to improving the lives of individuals with autism and neurodevelopmental disorders. His passion for excellence and strategic insight significantly contribute to our mission of fostering an inclusive environment for all.