We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Frances Okonkwo a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Frances, thanks for joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
The mission behind S.E.E.D.S International ABA Services LLC is to serve communities that do not have the same resources (financial and knowledge-based) as wealthier communities. The reason behind starting this company stems from my Nigerian background. I am a first generation Nigerian-American and serving my Nigerian community is something that I have been taught to do since I was a little girl. When I started working in the field of ABA, I quickly realized that African countries do not have the same resources that we do in the United States. In Nigeria there are less than five recognized ABA therapy companies. A lot of families are unable to help their loved ones who have autism or other related disorders or they (those who have the finances and ability to do so) seek for services outside of the country (outside of the continent of Africa even) in order to help their loved ones. Because of this, I started this ABA therapy company so that I can travel back home to Nigeria and other African countries to provide free ABA therapy for three months to individuals who need and seek out for it. Everyone has seeds waiting to be planted, we just help them blossom.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am a first generation Nigerian-American. I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and I provide applied behavior analysis therapy to individuals with autism and other related disorders. I began working in the field of ABA in 2018 and feel in love since. My clients’ ages range from 18 months into adulthood. I provide therapy that assists individuals reduce challenging behaviors that impact their daily and quality of life. Using a more natural and holistic approach, we assist individuals maneuver through society while encouraging and maintaining their individuality. This is what I am proud of. I can help individuals live the life that THEY want by teaching them to advocate for themselves and be in control of themselves.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
Originally, I was on a path to become a medical doctor. My parents really insisted that I become a doctor, lawyer, or engineer growing up. So due to my love for serving people and caring for others, I naturally veered toward the medical route. After completing my undergraduate degree in Microbiology and taking the MCAT, I noticed that my passion to become a medical doctor started to decrease, It was no longer fun for me. The thought of it no longer brought me joy. But I continued striving for this dimmed dream. While I was working in a restaurant as a hostess, I became depressed and was questioning my purpose and goals. A good friend of mine told me about the field of ABA and that I should try being a behavior technician. I later on applied and while working as a registered behavior technician and I realized that I was where I was meant to be. I found my passion. I got my master’s degree, passed my board exam on the first and only try, and then began my journey. The rest is history
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
For me the best source of new clients have been community. Being in tune with my Nigerian community and reaching out to members of the clergy in my church.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.seedsinternationalabaservices.com
- Instagram: @seedsinternationalabaservices
- Facebook: SEEDS International ABA Services
