We are deeply saddened to share that Nico van Oudenhoven, co-founder of International Child Development Initiatives, passed away on May 26, 2025.
Nico was a visionary child psychologist and a tireless advocate for children’s rights, whose work spanned continents and touched countless lives. His belief in empathy, cultural inclusion, and the transformative power of community shaped ICDI’s mission and inspired generations of practitioners and thinkers.
Beyond his professional achievements, Nico was a generous mentor, a thoughtful writer, and a cherished friend. His warmth, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice will be profoundly missed.
We are receiving heartfelt messages from friends, colleagues, and communities all around the world, which we will soon share in tribute to his remarkable life. A full eulogy and commemorative video will also follow shortly.
Rest in peace, Nico, your legacy lives on in the hearts and futures you helped shape. Or, borrowing the title of one of your many books, we promise to continue your mission and always “Pay It Forward.”
