A Childhood Inspiration
Dr. Raghida Achkar’s journey into the world of child development and neuroscience began with a single, life-changing observation. As a child, she witnessed how the right therapy could completely transform a young person’s life. That moment sparked a fire in her—a passion to help children unlock their hidden potential. What started as inspiration quickly grew into a lifelong mission that continues to shape her work today.
She recalls being deeply moved by the incredible transformations she saw in children when they were given proper support and opportunities. To her, every child carried unique strengths waiting to be discovered. This belief became the foundation of her vision—to blend neuroscience with creativity in order to nurture young minds in ways that bring out the best in them.
Turning Passion Into Purpose
Dr. Achkar’s professional journey was not built overnight. At the beginning, all she had was determination, vision, and a strong belief in children’s untapped potential. She faced numerous challenges, including limited resources and the skepticism of others who doubted her unconventional approach. But these obstacles only strengthened her resolve.
Her path began in Lebanon with Manpass, where she not only practiced as a therapist but also taught at the Lebanese University, led awareness programs in schools and nurseries, and supported families with life-changing interventions. From the earliest days, she was committed to helping children walk for the first time, communicate more effectively, and achieve milestones once thought impossible.
Over the years, she learned to be resourceful, resilient, and innovative, finding ways to combine scientific understanding with creative methods to reach children in ways that traditional systems often failed to do. Every hurdle she encountered became a stepping stone, shaping her into the leader she is today.
Achievements That Transform Lives
Today, Dr. Achkar serves as the Head of Occupational Therapy (Arabic & French Services) and is also the Founder of an advanced pediatric neurodevelopment clinic in Dubai. With more than 20 years of experience across the Middle East, she has worked with children from 1 month to 18 years old with neurological, orthopedic, developmental, and learning challenges, including autism and other neurodiverse conditions.
One of her greatest achievements has been the creation of innovative, brain-based programs designed specifically for neurodiverse children. These programs focus not only on academic growth but also on building social and emotional resilience. By using neuroscience as a guide and creativity as a tool, she has developed methods that empower children to thrive in multiple areas of life.
Her work has gone beyond helping individual children; it has also uplifted families. Parents often find themselves overwhelmed by challenges, unsure of how to support their children effectively. Through her programs, Dr. Achkar restores confidence and hope, showing families that their children are capable of limitless growth and potential.
Building the Future of Neuro-Cognitive Programs
Currently, Dr. Achkar is developing advanced neuro-cognitive programs that combine technology, neuroscience, and hands-on engagement. Her vision is to make these interventions accessible to families around the world, ensuring that children everywhere can benefit from cutting-edge research and supportive, personalized methods.
This forward-looking approach reflects her long-term mission: to redefine how society understands and nurtures neurodiverse minds. Instead of focusing on limitations, she highlights possibilities. By blending science, creativity, and humanity, she seeks to transform the way education and therapy intersect, creating pathways that were once unimaginable.
A Pioneer With a Purpose
Throughout her journey, Dr. Achkar has stayed true to her core belief: every child has untapped potential waiting to be discovered. She wants her legacy to be that of a pioneer—someone who turned challenges into opportunities and possibilities into lasting change for generations to come.
Her story is not only about professional accomplishments but also about the resilience of spirit. She embodies the idea that vision and determination can overcome even the toughest obstacles. For parents and educators, she serves as an example of what can be achieved when passion meets persistence.
Words of Inspiration
Dr. Achkar’s message to dreamers and changemakers is clear and powerful:
“Believe in your vision, even when others can’t see it yet. Every obstacle will teach you, every ‘no’ will sharpen your resolve, and your passion will carry you further than you ever imagined.”
These words echo the same resilience that carried her from a young girl inspired by transformation to a global leader in neurodiverse education. They serve as a reminder that true change begins with belief in oneself, in others, and in the boundless potential that lies within every child.
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