Pearson International School Teacher Awards
Meet the 2024 winners
The global and regional finalists and winners for the 2024 Pearson International School Teacher, Leader and Outstanding Innovator of the Year awards were announced at our awards ceremony on 26 June 2024.
Watch the live ceremony by clicking on the video to the right.
"Receiving the 2024 Pearson International School Teacher of the Year global award is a testament to the dedication and passion I pour into my craft. It's a recognition of the impact I strive to make in the lives of my students and the broader educational community. It signifies the culmination of hard work, innovative teaching methods, and a commitment to fostering learning environments where every individual can thrive and excel."
Read our interview with Auzair
A snapshot of Auzair's nominations
"His innovative use of technology in the classroom has deepened student understanding of the subject matter. The way he holds all students to a high standard is impressive. He has a very strong passion for teaching – it is inspiring for both students and fellow teachers."
"He has a remarkable ability to make learning not only engaging but deeply meaningful."
"A remarkable educator who consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student success. His passion for teaching is palpable and it is truly inspiring to witness the positive impact he has on the lives of our students."
Our judges' comments
His impact on improving student learning clearly reaches far beyond the classroom with his dedication to student welfare and learning in extra-curricular contexts. His relationship building with students, families and colleagues reflects how he lives and demonstrates his school's mission.
We were impressed by the many descriptions of him as an educator who clearly goes well beyond what is expected to create learning environments that are engaging and inspire his students to reach new heights.
International School Teacher of the Year: Africa
AFRICA WINNER: Dr Mai Ayad, The British School of Egypt, Egypt
AFRICA Finalist: Chara George Odhiambo, SCS Swaminarayan Academy, Kenya
AFRICA Finalist: E-man Mohammad Afat, International Knowledge School, Libya
International School Teacher of the Year: Asia
ASIA WINNER: Milka Rahman, Averroes International School, Bangladesh
ASIA Finalist: Batool Kazmi, International School of Karachi, Pakistan
ASIA Finalist: Dr Zin Mar Lwin, TZEC (Tr. Thuzar Education Center), Myanmar
International School Teacher of the Year: Europe
EUROPE WINNER: Amber Slouf, International School of Prague, Czech Republic
EUROPE Finalist: Catriona Bell, El Limonar International School (ELIS) Murcia, Spain
EUROPE Finalist: Jonathan Burt, Mallorca International School, Spain
International School Teacher of the Year: Middle East
MIDDLE EAST WINNER: Fatima AlGoush, Shaikha Hessa Girls' School, Bahrain
MIDDLE EAST runner-up: Geevitha Vignarajah, Bangladesh International School, Saudi Arabia
MIDDLE EAST runner-up: Sarah Towlson, Repton School Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
"Receiving the 2024 Pearson International School Teacher of the Year global award is a testament to the dedication and passion I pour into my craft. It's a recognition of the impact I strive to make in the lives of my students and the broader educational community. It signifies the culmination of hard work, innovative teaching methods, and a commitment to fostering learning environments where every individual can thrive and excel."
A snapshot of Steve's nominations
"He believes the whole community – students, teaching staff, non-teaching staff and parents – need to work together. Our community has suffered through Covid and the difficulties of warfare among our neighbours. He has supported parents through bereavement and Ukranian families within our school and those refugees who came to Georgia, as well as galvanising efforts of other international schools to support the displaced in Ukraine."
"An exceptional school leader known for creating an outstanding teaching and learning environment for students. He achieves this by fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity and innovation."
Our judges' comments
Of his many nominations, this excerpt from one of his students really stood out:
"He is a man who has provided me with a lot of inspiration, a man who has shown me how hard work and dedication can lead to leaving a positive impact on hundreds of people, and a completely transformed community. It is because of him that children can gain a world-class education and allow them to pursue their dreams and passions in any part of the globe.
I will be forever grateful for Mr Priest’s involvement at this school."
International School Leader of the Year: Africa
AFRICA WINNER: Omneya Kassabgy, Winchester British International School, Egypt
AFRICA Finalist: Motale Mohlaba, Letlotlo International School, Lesotho
AFRICA Finalist: Sarah Dessouky, Stanford International School, Egypt
International School Leader of the Year: Asia
ASIA WINNER: Anju Wal, Shiv Nadar School Faridabad, India
ASIA Finalist: Ann Haydon, Harrow International School Hong Kong, Hong Kong
ASIA Finalist: Rene Smal, Hangzhou International School, China
International School Leader of the Year: Europe
EUROPE WINNER: Kamran Baig, Lucerne International School, Switzerland
EUROPE Finalist: Carl Lander, Azerbaijan British College, Azerbaijan (now at Karachi Grammar School, Pakistan)
EUROPE Finalist: Jamie Steele, International School of Ticino, Switzerland
International School Leader of the Year: Middle East
MIDDLE EAST WINNER: Syed Asim Naveed Bukhari, Bright Future International School, Qatar
MIDDLE EAST Finalist: Dr Paul Walton, Nadeen School, Bahrain
MIDDLE EAST Finalist: Samia Alkooheji, Shaikha Hessa Girls' School, Bahrain
"Being awarded the 2024 Pearson International School Outstanding Innovator of the Year award is a tremendous honor. It highlights the importance of financial literacy in our curriculum and acknowledges the efforts to empower students with essential financial skills. This recognition motivates me to continue developing innovative programs that prepare students for a financially responsible future. Thank you for supporting educators dedicated to making a meaningful impact."
A snapshot of Braden's nominations
"My son says something nice about him almost every single day. He talks about the lessons they have and about the new things that he learns. It’s amazing for me to see him so excited to learn and to find learning so much fun."
"Everything we do is based on real life, he teaches us to learn about money in a fun way, he also inspired me to make my own business."
"He is the best teacher I've ever had and probably will ever have!""
"A remarkable educator who consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student success. His passion for teaching is palpable and it is truly inspiring to witness the positive impact he has on the lives of our students."
Our judges' comments
Braden is clearly an exceptional innovator, teaching financial literacy through exciting real-world scenarios. His students love his lessons with over 20 of them nominating him for this award. Parents are also seeing the impact of his teaching, with their children full of enthusiasm and excitement to learn.
A standout candidate for this award. His lessons should serve as inspiration for all teachers looking to take their teaching to the next level.
International School Outstanding Innovator of the Year: Africa
AFRICA WINNER: Bonface Keya, Academy of Science and Technology, Somaliland
AFRICA Finalist: Nnaemeka Christopher Nwagbo, The Ambassadors College, Nigeria
AFRICA Finalist: Samuel Olaoluwa Awoyemi, Caleb British International School, Nigeria
International School Outstanding Innovator of the Year: Asia
ASIA WINNER: Omesha Anurangi, Lyceum International School, Sri Lanka
ASIA Finalist: Dr P. Joseph Lakshman G Nonis, Lyceum International School, Sri Lanka
ASIA Finalist: Samina Shah, The College of Arts and Sciences, Pakistan
International School Outstanding Innovator of the Year: Middle East
MIDDLE EAST WINNER: Nweed Khalid, Gulf English School, Kuwait
MIDDLE EAST Finalist: Agnes Monan, Nadeen School, Bahrain
MIDDLE EAST Finalist: Farhana Khanam, Bangladesh International School, Saudi Arabia
"Being chosen for this award is an incredible honour. It recognises my dedication to fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment and inspires me to continue innovating in the classroom and positively impacting my students' lives. I am proud to be part of a global community of educators who are committed to excellence and making a difference in education. Thank you for this prestigious recognition"
Our judges' comments
Dr Kumaran is described as an exceptional educator who consistently demonstrates a remarkable commitment to fostering an environment of inclusive and effective learning.
He is innovative and empowers students to succeed in their learning beyond their own expectations. He is an advocate for equal opportunities and cultural diversity. Engaging students in their learning, he is described as “creating magic within the classroom.
What makes him worthy of this year's Judges' Choice Award is his creation of extraordinary learning opportunities.
By incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into lessons, he equips students with valuable skills, teaching them how to use AI to calculate moves, prevent injuries, and enhance performance.
Operating at an exceptional level, he excels in both sports and academic courses. His meticulous demonstrations during sports courses ensure that students not only understand but master each technique. The provision of extra training sessions for sports that demand more physical exertion, alongside professional trainers, demonstrates his commitment to the holistic development of his students.
His passion for teaching and dedication to the individual needs of the students is impactful to the individual learner, the institution and the wider community.
"I feel flattered to be chosen for this award. After all, whatever I did well was not because of any ambition but out of deep concern that education, globally, was somehow either failing its students or else falling well below expectations. Trying to address these shortcomings I felt was part of my job. I didn't expect this nomination as everyone was very secretive of the fact that they had put my name forward. An international recognition of one's contribution is a very pleasant way to end a life-long career in education."
Our judges' comments
Stavros is described as having an impact that extends beyond the confines of the classroom, leaving an indelible mark on the educational journey of students and colleagues alike. Through his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence, he strengthens the fabric of the school community, fostering a culture of learning, growth, and mutual respect. He is retiring this year and will clearly leave a huge gap, as well as a wonderful legacy.
He is an exemplary educator and leader, embodying innovation and foresight in his approach, recognising the unique strengths of his colleagues and leveraging them effectively by assigning tasks that harness their full potential.
His leadership is characterised by fairness, coupled with a profound understanding of the needs of those within his sphere. He fosters a nurturing environment that prioritises the personal and professional growth of his team members, instilling confidence and providing avenues for development.
Central to his educational philosophy is the cultivation of well-rounded individuals equipped to navigate the complexities of contemporary society with a critical mindset and places equal importance on the cultivation of personal attributes essential for meaningful engagement with the world – attributes such as empathy, respect, fairness, passion, creativity, and awareness.
Congratulations to our 2024 award winners
Sharon Hague, Managing Director of Pearson School Qualifications shares her congratulations to all our 2024 global and regional winners and finalists.
Hear from the 2024 regional winners and finalists
Samuel Awoyemi
"I am thrilled that my contributions to my students, school, and the teaching community in Nigeria are recognised internationally. This will inspire my colleagues and students to strive for excellence and continuous improvement, which I constantly advocate."
Geevitha Vignarajah
"Being able to educate and inspire young learners as they emerge into the world of knowledge is something I consider as my responsibility. This auspicious moment will not only give validation to myself, but to all the teachers around the globe who share the same incentives as me."
Bonface Keya
"Being a scientist, a teacher and the mentor of young students it goes without saying that every teacher has passion of making a change in the student's life. Being a finalist is inspiring to myself and many other teachers whose work is to make the world a better place for the present and future generations."
Milka Rahman
"This is a tremendous honour and a testament to our dedication and hard work. It acknowledges the unwavering commitment of our entire team and inspires us to continue striving for excellence. I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives and to contribute to the field of education.."
Anju Wal
"My heart swells with gratitude for my sterling team, my colleagues and management. This is as much their award as its mine. The relationship of trust and respect with my children and parents runs deep. The Shiv Nadar School core values are the bedrock of everything we think and do."
Kamran Baig
"It is an unbelievable honour to have received this recognition. To be a finalist in this year’s award is both hugely rewarding and motivating. I am truly appreciative and humbled and would like to share this with the team at Lucerne International School who work tirelessly to serve our students and mission."
Sarah Towlson
"I am thrilled to receive this recognition after teaching and leading MFL departments in the UK and Abu Dhabi. It reflects my dedication to UAE values of excellence, innovation and self-development, and my beliefs in the value of CPD and networking. My ultimate passion is making a positive impact in the classroom."
Catriona Bell
"I feel incredibly honoured and proud to be a finalist of such a prestigious award."
Agnes Monan
"I am absolutely humbled and honoured to be selected as a finalist. I am grateful for the opportunity to showcase my commitment to fostering a culture of innovation in the classroom and making a lasting impact on the lives of both the students I teach and the professionals I work with."
Jonathan Burt
"I enjoy my job, and work with amazing colleagues, but it's never about me. The students are the ones who matter and they are the reason the majority of people become teachers. This nomination is a recognition of what we ALL do at the school and definitely not just me."
Omesha Anurangi
"For me, it is a special moment to celebrate. Thank you for bestowing me such an honour with this achievement. This will remain a cherished memory for the rest of my life which gives me more confidence and courage to perform as a best educator."
Dr Lakshman Nonis
"I am thrilled to be a finalist. For 43 years as a science teacher, I've focused on learning by doing, encouraging students to think creatively and invent. This honour energizes my future "STEAM" education projects, reflecting my commitment to transforming imagination into innovation."
Dr Zin Mar Lwin
"Being a finalist in this year's Pearson International School Teacher Awards is a great honour. Its signifies recognition of my dedication and passion for teaching, and it reinforces my commitment to nurturing and inspiring my students."
Dr Paul Walton
"It is a great honour and privilege to be a finalist. I am very fortunate to work with an incredible team of staff that go above and beyond every single day for our students. Due to their hard work, professionalism, and passion our students have amazing learning opportunities."
Omneya Kassabgy
"Being selected as a finalist in this prestigious award is the crowning of my career. I am grateful and proud knowing that my hard work and dedication have been recognised as well as a validation that my journey has been worth every step of the way."
Sarah Dessouky
"I’m grateful for this recognition and inspired to continue pushing boundaries and achieving new heights. Thank you for this incredible opportunity."
Jamie Steele
"As a leader, I strive to sensitively enact change and I am acutely aware of the challenges to bring everyone along with me. I thank all of the staff at the International School of Ticino for giving our children the best experience possible. Being nominated by my team gives me renewed energy to to make our vision a reality."
Dr Mai Ayad
"I am deeply honoured to be a finalist. I am incredibly grateful to be part of such a wonderful profession, where I can significantly impact my students' future success and personal growth. Thank you, Pearson, for this incredible honour, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive difference in the lives of my students."
Syed Asim Naveed Bukhari
"Being nominated for such a prestigious award, I feel a deep sense of pride and validation, as an acknowledgement of my hard work, dedication, and impact on students and the educational community. I feel gratitude towards my colleagues, students, and families who supported and contributed to this success."
Ann Haydon
"As Head of Harrow International School Hong Kong, I am thrilled to have been nominated and shortlisted for the International School Leader of the Year 2024 (Asia region) Award. I am incredibly fortunate to lead one of the top 100 schools in the world and often say that I have the best job in the world!"
Batool Kazmi
"Teaching is my passion, and each learner is someone I care about and am willing to go above and beyond to make their learning experience more convenient and joyful. This incentive will improve my drive and give me the strength to continue learning and instructing my students."
Fatima AlGoush
"Being a finalist is a great honour. It empowers my passion for innovative teaching and reinforces my commitment to promoting a supportive and dynamic learning environment. I am glad and grateful for this opportunity to represent Shaikha Hessa Girls’ School, my colleagues and my amazing students."
Motale Mohlaba
"This award inspires me to do my best and to further uphold the vision of our school which is to become a school known for excellence in academic, spiritual and moral foundations in line with global advancements and technological trends. This is going to inspire my learners and colleagues that indeed hard-work pays."
Rene Smal
"It is a tremendous honor to be chosen as a finalist. My aspirations as an educator and leader have always been to be in service, support, inspire and work in collaboration with amazing educators, dedicated to the nurturing of young children. I treasure all the opportunities, trust and support I am given by those around me."
Nweed Khalid
"It is a true honour to be nominated and satisfying to know I have had very real impact on students & their personal growth. I appreciate Pearson for recognising this. I am a true believer that we can make a lasting impact on the next generation in more ways than just teaching a subject specialism."
Samia Al Kooheji
"I am profoundly honored and deeply humbled to have been nominated by my Shaikha Hessa Girls' School Team. This recognition is not just a testament to my efforts but a reflection of the collective dedication, passion, and excellence that each one of you brings to our institution every day. I am equally thankful to Pearson."
Chara George Odhiambo
"Being a finalist is a profound honor. It validates my dedication to education and my commitment to inspiring and nurturing young minds and motivates me to continue striving for excellence and making a positive impact in the lives of my students. I am deeply grateful and excited to share this achievement with my school community."
Carl Lander
"The award is a recognition of the impact a leader has on the lives of teachers, middle and senor leaders and TA's as well as a reminder that schools are places of learning not just for students, but also for staff members."
Samina Shah
"Being selected as a finalist is an incredible honor and validation of my dedication and hard work as an innovator. It motivates me to continue pushing boundaries, exploring new possibilities, and creating positive change. I am grateful to be recognised among the best innovators and I am excited to inspire others to pursue their own innovative journeys."
Amber Slouf
"Did they grow as learners? What should I have done differently? Are they more resilient, open-minded, and thoughtful? These are the questions that race through my mind every June. As I send them off one last time, I silently pray it was enough. That I was enough. That they are better classmates, students, and humans than when they first walked into my classroom. Being nominated removes those doubts and inspires me to keep learning."
Nnaemeka Christopher Nwagbo
"Being a finalist is a humbling honour. It validates my passion for innovative education, particularly project-based learning, which empowers students, teachers, and communities to address global challenges and foster global citizenship. This motivates me to keep innovating and inspiring a love for learning in all. I'm humbled to be recognized alongside other inspiring educators."
Farhana Khanam
"I’d like to thank everyone who worked towards this in Pearson to appreciate teachers. This inspires us to work harder and encourage our students to step outside their comfort zone and conquer the world."
E-man Mohammad Afat
"Such an opportunity will enrich my experience and enhance my abilities. It will, in fact, be a great chance to meet peer international teachers and share experiences. It is such an honor to be a finalist in this year’s Pearson International School Teacher Awards."