At just six years old, British-Nigerian Joshua Beckford made international headlines when he became the youngest person ever admitted to Oxford University.
Today, he is widely celebrated not only for his academic brilliance but also for his inspiring vision for a better world.
Joshua’s journey into the spotlight began almost as soon as he could speak. By the age of 10 months, he was already able to identify letters and numbers.
By two and a half, he was reading fluently using phonics, learning Japanese, and exploring Mandarin. Remarkably, he even taught himself to touch type before he could write with a pen.
His father, Knox Daniel, recognized early on that his son was far ahead of his peers. Determined to give him the platform he deserved, he reached out to Oxford University to request a place in their gifted children’s program—designed for students aged eight to thirteen. Joshua was only six at the time.
Oxford agreed, and he was enrolled in philosophy and history courses, passing both with distinction.
Joshua’s story is not just about early academic achievement—it is also about purpose.
In a TEDx Talk in Vienna, he passionately declared: “I want to save the earth. I want to change the world and change people’s ideas to doing the right things about earth.” His words reflect a maturity far beyond his years and a clear commitment to using his talents for meaningful change.
Though he has dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon, Joshua is already displaying skills many adults would envy.
Using the Microsoft Surgery Simulator, he has practiced intricate procedures such as hernia repair, cataract removal, and bone fracture treatment.
His aptitude for medicine is paired with a fascination for how things work and a hunger to master multiple disciplines.
Beyond academics and medicine, Joshua is a gifted artist, a whiz in information technology, and a multilingual learner.
His talents have earned him global recognition. In 2017, he was named Positive Role Model of the Year at the UK’s National Diversity Awards. The Illumination Foundation of North Carolina also included him in its list of the Top 30 Most Extraordinary People in the World who are making a positive impact.
Joshua Beckford’s story is one of extraordinary talent, relentless curiosity, and a desire to change the world for the better.
He represents a powerful example of what is possible when children—regardless of age or neurodiversity—are nurtured, challenged, and supported in pursuing their potential.
