What inspired you to work for Baladna Projects?
I love to teach, and the opportunity presented itself. It's always nice to meet someone in your field.
I met Suzanna on a Thursday evening. As we communicated, I was compelled to ask about her career. As we continued to talk, our background became like sisters. We were finishing each other's sentences concerning the educational platform in the world. We exchanged information, and the rest is history.
6th grade student solving an algebraic equation.
Describe a typical day at work.
The students start to gather at the school around 9:30 a.m. Yoga starts the day. The idea is for a centered/grounded day. As the students enter their classrooms, the day becomes more structured.
Since the school is an international school, our goal is fluency in all subjects. It is expected that at some point during the day, at least one of the students will be reminded to speak in English (as it is an American international school) and not their native tongue in the classrooms.
The students and teachers are like one big family. We have "on the carpet moments," celebratory moments, and we talk to each other. Phones and computers are not allowed, so conversations go a long way in this place.
Why do you do what you do?
I enjoy "molding" children to be good citizens of the world. It is our duty to enhance the earth through all that we (as humans) do. Schooling is important and is a big part of our world today.
I deem it necessary for each citizen of the world to have the opportunity to learn in a classroom setting or even in the comfort of his or her own home.
What are some current projects you are working on?
Currently, I am working on lapbooks for each class.
A "lapbook" is a subject-based folder created in the form of a book for each individual student. It's an educational, interactive, and personalized portfolio created within a file folder, designed to help students organize, review, and retain information on a specific topic.
By using miniature books, pockets, and foldables, lapbooks make learning hands-on, engaging, and memorable for children/students across various subjects.
Singing on a Thursday in Hurghada
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
Always keep an open mind. You never know what the universe has in store for you.
Travel and pack light with your affairs in order.
Make every moment count. Seasons change, so remain fluid with change. Prepare for anything and everything possible. Make sure your foundation is solid, and your means are flowing and attainable.
Why should someone choose your organization over competitors?
Smith-Collins is an American International School. It is one of many international curricula.
If you care about your child's/student's education and life path, this school is certainly the choice. I've taught all around the world and have had many different encounters in this field.
I'm not sure there is any competition as far as the operation and education of teachers and students. It's not every day that you get to learn with family. This school/classroom is second to none as it offers the necessary disciplines for citizens in training.
What is Baladna Projects' mission, and how do you continue to work toward it?
Classwork and participation
Every day is a new day to foster a diverse, inclusive community that empowers students to become responsible global citizens through high-quality, inquiry-based education. We emphasize academic excellence, intercultural understanding, and the development of critical thinking skills, preparing students for future challenges in a rapidly changing world.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
The primary goal is for students to leave with a lasting love of learning, strong critical thinking abilities, and the resilience to overcome challenges. They should also gain problem-solving skills, a solid work ethic, and the capability to manage interpersonal relationships with kindness.
Ultimately, the goal is to equip students with both academic knowledge and the life skills necessary to thrive in the modern world.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Immersing yourself in a different way of life fosters tolerance, open-mindedness, and a deeper respect for diverse perspectives. It allows people to see beyond stereotypes and appreciate different traditions and, in turn, gain a more objective view of their own culture.
Navigating new environments builds independence, confidence, and resilience. Challenging your own assumptions about life through travel leads to profound self-reflection and personal growth.
A Mantra
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel is an immersive experience that fosters deep personal growth, genuine connections with local communities, and positive, responsible impact, rather than just sightseeing. It focuses on learning, understanding different cultures, and leaving a positive footprint on the environment and people.
Engaging with local communities, trying local food, and learning history to gain a deeper understanding of daily life.
Building relationships with locals and supporting local economies through small businesses, artisans, and, if possible, volunteering.
Stepping out of comfort zones to challenge perspectives, often leading to increased self-awareness and life-changing insights, and embracing a slower, more deliberate, and sometimes challenging, pace to truly experience a destination.
