Joyce Larbi (Yaa Sika)
Founder
Joyce Larbi has a strong educational foundation in nursing, special education, and human services, which has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to support individuals with autism and their families.
She earned her nursing education from Stone Academy in 2020, gaining extensive experience in providing compassionate and skilled care to adults in long-term care facilities. Her background in healthcare has allowed her to work closely with individuals who require specialized support, further deepening her understanding of patient-centered care.
Prior to her nursing career, Joyce obtained a degree from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, in 2008, where she built a strong foundation in education and community service. Additionally, she has pursued various certifications in human services, which have enhanced her ability to advocate for vulnerable populations, including children with special needs.
Her dedication to both healthcare and special education led her to work as a paraeducator, supporting students with special needs in an educational setting. This hands-on experience has given her valuable insight into the challenges faced by children with autism and their families, shaping her passion for advocacy and her commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding autism.
Oduro Appau
Co-founder
Oduro Appau is a Ghanaian cybersecurity professional and the supportive husband of Joyce Larbi, founder of Autism Destigma. Originally a telecommunications engineer, he transitioned into cybersecurity, earning a BSc in IT, CompTIA Security+, and CISSP certifications.
Beyond his career, Oduro is a devoted family man, playing a key role in Joyce’s autism advocacy. His unwavering support has strengthened Autism Destigma’s mission to raise awareness and challenge stigma.
A passionate soccer fan, he supports Asante Kotoko and Manchester United, embracing the values of teamwork and perseverance in both sports and life.
Kwasi Ntem-Mensah
Board Chairman
Kwasi Ntem-Mensah is a results-driven Human Services Professional with over a decade of experience in in-home services, case management, and family empowerment. His expertise lies in strategic task management, parenting education, and comprehensive documentation, with a proven track record of supporting and strengthening families through targeted interventions.
Kwasi excels in leadership, communication, and organizational skills, making him a valuable asset to any team. He is proficient in event planning, public speaking, and conducting parent education home visits under the Parent as Teachers model. His ability to perform risk assessments, outreach, and recruitment for high-risk parents has made a significant impact in his field.
Beyond his professional achievements, Kwasi is deeply committed to community service. He serves as an elected member of the Manchester Board of Education, a Justice of the Peace, and the President of the Council of Ghanaian Associations. He is also an accomplished author and poet, using his voice to inspire and uplift others.
At Autism Destigma, Kwasi brings his passion for advocacy, strategic thinking, and community engagement to help drive our mission of ending autism stigma and fostering inclusion
Ama Osei-Assibey
Board Secretary
Ama Osei-Assibey brings over two decades of dedicated experience in social work and case management to her role as Board Secretary at Autism Destigma. With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminology, Ama has devoted her career to supporting vulnerable individuals and families, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to thrive.
From October 2001 to October 2020, Ama served as a Social Worker with the Department of Children and Families, where she developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by children and families in crisis. Her compassionate approach and commitment to advocacy have made a lasting impact on countless lives.
Since 2020, Ama has been working as a Case Manager with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), where she focuses on empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve their full potential. Her expertise in navigating complex systems and her passion for inclusion align perfectly with Autism Destigma’s mission to eliminate stigma and foster acceptance.
Ama’s unwavering dedication to service, coupled with her extensive experience, makes her an invaluable member of the Autism Destigma team. She is committed to creating a world where individuals with autism are celebrated, supported, and empowered to thrive.