Introduce yourself in three words or phrases.
Passionate, student-centric, dedicated.
What do you like most about your job?
It is the opportunity to empower students across Africa to unlock their true potential. At Enko Education, we strive to give students access to world-class education and opportunities that were once out of reach for many African families. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see students – many of whom might not have considered university or global opportunities – gain the confidence and global perspective needed to thrive in today’s world.
It is so fulfilling to watch our students realise how many doors are open to them at university and career fairs or events like the Africa Quiz by Ashesi University in Ghana. Through partnerships with top universities globally, we’ve been able to secure scholarships and offer unique learning experiences.
For example, we’ve introduced programs like the Master Union Test Drive, which exposes students to 12 different career paths, organised master classes with Hult Business School, and a Waterloo Math series. These initiatives expand students’ and families’ understanding of what’s possible and introduce them to opportunities they might not have considered.
Best work trip/Worst work trip?
Best: Our Counselors’ Retreat in Johannesburg was my most memorable and impactful work trip. It brought together counselors from across 16 schools of the Enko network, allowing us to exchange ideas, share best practices, and foster a deeper sense of collaboration.
It was inspiring to hear success stories from different Enko schools and learn about each counselor’s unique challenges in their region. The retreat wasn’t just about professional development but about building a strong community of educators united by a shared mission to empower students. Plus, being in Johannesburg, with its rich history and culture, added a special touch to the experience, making it both professionally and personally enriching.
Worst: Unfortunately, the most difficult work trip I’ve had was to Phuket, where I fell ill, so I couldn’t enjoy the lovely setting, food, and events arranged to the fullest.
If you could learn a language instantly, which would you pick and why?
French. Given my role working across Africa, improving my French would enhance my ability to connect with Francophone students and colleagues and open more doors in the region.
What makes you get up in the morning?
The first thing is my chai (tea in Hindi) and then of course my work. The opportunity to support students on their educational journeys, knowing that I’m helping shape their futures, drives me every day.
Champion/cheerleader we should all follow and why?
Malala Yousafzai. Her relentless advocacy for education, especially for young girls, resonates deeply with me. She’s a true champion of the power of education to change lives.
Best international education conference you have attended and why?
The first International ACAC conference I attended in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The sheer scale of the event and the diversity of professionals in attendance blew me away. I made good friends and had fun hopping from one event to another. Seeing how much this global community is dedicated to university and career counseling was inspiring.
Book or podcast recommendation for others in the sector?
Range by David Epstein, which Enko counselors read before our retreat in Johannesburg. It explores why generalists often succeed in a world that increasingly values specialisation, a fascinating concept for those of us in education, who must wear many hats.
Describe a project or initiative you’re currently working on that excites you.
I’m very excited about two initiatives I’m working on.
The first is with the Pioneer Academy’s Global Problem Solving Institute, where students will work in teams of six to find their local problems with other teams from different schools globally and work with the university professors. The initiative aims to equip students with the skills and tools to tackle pressing global challenges. Students will solve complex problems from different perspectives using design-thinking principles.
The second is with the SIP Summer Internship Programme, a program run through the University of California, Santa Cruz, through which high school students work in small groups under the close mentorship of university researchers on STEAM research projects for 10 weeks during the summer. SIP is working hard to level the academic playing field by making the program accessible to students from all backgrounds. Enko was able to send three students to Santa Cruz for SIP 2024, each of whom received full scholarships.