N.S. boy, 6, who just joined Mensa started multiplying as a toddler

A remarkable six-year-old boy from Bedford, N.S., has recently become a member of one of the most elite clubs in the world. Elijah Kodzo Motey is among the 50 Nova Scotians who have been granted membership into Mensa International, a prestigious high-IQ society reserved for individuals who score in the top two percent of standardized intelligence tests.

Elijah’s parents, Mercy Mutale Motey and Delali Motey, expressed their immense pride and excitement over their son’s achievement. They had noticed signs of his exceptional intelligence from a very young age. At just two years old, Elijah was spelling complex words with magnets on the refrigerator and teaching himself to read and write. His knack for mathematics was evident early on, as he effortlessly tackled three times tables while still a toddler.

Recognizing Elijah’s extraordinary abilities, his parents sought out Mensa to provide him with the necessary support and resources for his giftedness. Although Mensa typically tests individuals aged 14 and older, Elijah underwent testing with a psychologist, whose results were then submitted to Atlantic Mensa for consideration. Unsurprisingly, Elijah’s acceptance into the society was a foregone conclusion for his family.

At his elementary school within the Conseil scolaire acadien provincial, Elijah excels in subjects like math, physical education, and reading. He values the opportunity to showcase his intelligence and enjoys the challenge of solving mathematical problems, running around during gym class, and delving into books at the library.

Barry Schmidel, the Atlantic regional representative on the board of Mensa Canada, emphasized that Mensa was established to create a community for highly intelligent individuals. He highlighted the organization’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections and intelligent discourse among its members, dispelling the notion that Mensa is an exclusive or elitist group.

Elijah’s mother emphasized the importance of advocating for children, regardless of their abilities. She maintains regular communication with the school’s administration to ensure that Elijah is appropriately challenged and supported in his educational journey. Looking ahead, she believes in encouraging Elijah to explore his passions and interests, leveraging his exceptional skills to pursue whatever endeavors he desires.

Overall, Elijah’s membership in Mensa serves as a testament to his exceptional intellect and potential for greatness. As he continues to grow and develop, his family remains dedicated to nurturing his talents and providing him with the tools he needs to thrive.