Joan Okorodudu, a distinguished Nigerian fashion entrepreneur, model scout, skincare expert, and former beauty queen, has been honored with the prestigious US Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.
The award, presented on October 7, 2024, recognizes her unwavering commitment to promoting African artists, culture, and fashion, as well as her advocacy for the Kakuma Refugee Camp and support for young women.
Born in 1958 in Auchi, Edo State, Joan attended Ebu Lokoja Kogi State’s local government primary school and later Itohan Girls Grammar School in Benin City.
A gifted athlete, she earned a scholarship to Boston University, Massachusetts, where she graduated with a degree in political science. Her active involvement in sports laid the foundation for her dynamic and ambitious personality.
During her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, Joan entered and won the Kaduna Zone of the Miss Nigeria contest, later emerging as the first runner-up at the finals in Lagos.
This victory marked the beginning of her journey into the public spotlight. Politically active from a young age, Joan was involved with the United Party of Nigeria’s youth wing and later participated in American politics during President Bill Clinton’s administration. She even met Joe Biden, now the US President, during his campaigns in Wilmington, Delaware.
Joan’s passion for fashion began at the tender age of five when she modeled for photographs. In 2007, during a trip to South Africa, she and her colleague Juliet Morgan, now Mrs. Eke, co-founded Isis Models Africa.
This decision, sparked by their experience at South Africa Fashion Week, gave rise to one of Africa’s leading modeling agencies. The agency has since produced models who have graced runways in Paris, Milan, New York, and other global fashion capitals.
In addition to Isis Models Africa, Joan founded Runways to Freedom, a non-governmental organization focused on empowering young African talent.
She is also the creator of Nigeria’s Next Super Model, a platform that has launched the careers of many who now feature in international fashion events across Madrid, Paris, and Milan.
Joan is married to retired Air Vice Marshal Terry Omatsola Okorodudu, a two-star general of the Nigerian Air Force. The couple, who met on a flight, have one son, Bidemi Okorodudu.
Joan Okorodudu’s story is a testament to resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to empowering others.
Her accomplishments continue to inspire generations, positioning her as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s fashion and cultural landscape.
