Facilitators

KEYNOTE SPEAKER : Curtis Beaverford 

Professor at Tamagawa University, Tokyo

I am an experienced educator from Canada with an international career spanning over two decades. I have been an IB educator since 2001. Additionally, I have held various positions in international schools in Taiwan, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste. I have taught and coordinated the PYP, MYP, and DP programs. Moreover, I spent seven years as the MYP Regional Manager in Singapore, supporting the development and implementation of the MYP in the Asia Pacific region. Aside from my teaching experience, I completed a two-year term as Head of Dili International School. I also spent three years as an Associate Professor at the University of Tsukuba. Furthermore, I worked as part of a team that developed and delivered a Master of Education Program aligned with the IB Educator Certificates.

Currently, I am a Professor at Tamagawa University in Tokyo, teaching IB-related courses in the University's Online IB Educator Certificate program.

Asheka Tenzin 

Academic Director

D Y Patil International School

I am Ms. Asheka Tenzin, the Academic Director of Ajeenkya D Y Patil International Schools. I have 30 years of experience in teaching science at the secondary level and hold a Bachelor's Degree in Education as well as a Master's Degree in Microbiology. For the past 20 years, I have been teaching in schools that offer multi-IB programmes. I am an IB Programme and Evaluation Leader for MYP Schools and evaluate schools for MYP Programmes. Additionally, I serve as a School Visiting Team Member for the IB Asia Pacific region, an Online workshop Facilitator and the MYP Network Chair for the South Asia MYP Coordinator Network (South).

I am a certified trainer and have completed a Certificate Course in Train the Trainer by Tata Institute of Social Sciences and the Cambridge PDQ Programme Leader Induction Course. As an educator, I believe in displaying patience, managing the classroom effectively, communicating well, and being dedicated. I am open-minded, thoughtful and a lifelong learner. Above all, I endorse fairness and consistency.

Elyana Zawaideh

Certified Concept-Based Curriculum and Instruction Trainer 

MYP Language and Literature Teacher 

IDU-BQC Reviewer

My name is Elyana Zawaideh. I am an IDU BQC Reviewer since 2017 and a certified Concept Based Trainer and Presenter since 2020. I have vast experience in teaching the English language in PYP and MYP and leading teams to achieve their full abilities as I embarked on multiple roles starting from being a primary teacher, team leader, middle school leader, and subject coordinator.

I am currently the MYP Co-coordinator at English Talents School in Amman Jordan leading languages, Arts and Individuals & societies while teaching Year 3 English Language and literature. In addition, I am a Global Schools Previous advocate for my country and currently a mentor for new advocates. My experience in these varied yet connected roles provides me with consistent rich challenging learning experiences as I gain more depth and understanding in the program I am leading as well as developing an agile mindset seeking development consistently.

Archana Mehra 

PYP Coordinator

D Y Patil International School

The PYP Co-ordinator and with 18+ years of experience in the field of education. The ability to develop and implement lucid methods of teaching that encourage curiosity and interest in students. I believe that the purpose of education is for students to learn, explore and develop knowledge on how to live in our current and future world. I strive to create a safe environment and an open atmosphere where students feel welcomed and free to explore all aspects of learning. I have worked with reputed IB schools in India (Mumbai) and have been responsible for ensuring that the IB Primary Years Programme framework is effectively implemented and students gain maximum learning benefits from this advanced curriculum, My forte lies in amalgamating the best practices within the IB PYP framework to help each student attain their best potential and students inspire to bring new experiences and iI am dedicated to helping students reach their full potential by assisting them to discover their gifts and abilities. 

Mr Ashok Gaydhane  

IGCSE Coordinator 

D Y Patil International School

• With 18 years of enriched experience in education, I can say that my career and my passion hold the fullest dedication, devotion and commitment. While working in various positions in the education field, I developed my own educational philosophy by getting inspired by Swami Vivekanand.

• “Education is one of the best journeys of our life where an individual nurtured and convert him/herself into a good human being. In this journey, individuals enhance and master many attributes of human beings and This journey helps an individual in his further life, to tackle situations, Making decisions and many more things.” 

Humera Riyaz 

The Indian public school 

I am Humera Riyaz - PYP Coordinator in India. I have been associated with IB since last 14 years . Inquiry and design rhinking are my main areas if interest.

My articles and podcasts have been published in IN blog IB world magazine and IB matters.

I love making classrooms more thought grilled spaces. 

Priya Ramteke

Oberoi International School 

I am an excited and passionate educator who demonstrates exemplary skill, behavior, and courage. I believe that learning happens by observing, doing, speaking, and listening mindfully. I lead and learn both by and through example and in doing so I am able to inspire my students to learn and motivate my teachers to be partners with me on our journey forward.

I am currently working as Head of Middle School at Oberoi International School-OGC campus. This is my thirteenth year at OIS-it has been a remarkable journey of personal and professional growth. Before OIS, I worked in state schools in England and that changed me as a teacher and made me the teacher-leader that I am today. Teaching in state schools in England taught me that a teacher's role is connections and relationships with students over the content. Students learn when you truly care about them and their life.

My journey as a secondary school Science and Maths teacher started at Mount Carmel Convent School, Kutch, Gujarat, and continued in my very first IB school at Mahathma Gandhi International School (MGIS), Ahmedabad, Gujarat. MGIS transforms you to your very core and working here laid the foundations for a wonderful and inspiring journey into the IB world. I was one of the founding group of teachers at MGIS and taught the PYP.

I led OIS through its MYP authorization journey; successfully managing change to a concept-driven framework from a previously structure-driven programme. This was a mindset shift and a rewarding yet challenging experience.

I work with the IB as a Workshop Leader,Programme Leader, Course Outline Reader, and examiner for MYP Sciences and Personal Project. Besides this, I am also a CIS team evaluator and an internationally certified Yoga teacher. 

Era Dogra 

Genesis Global school 

I am a passionate educator who believes that every child is unique and has their own learning journey. 

I am an alumnus of Cambridge School, Noida. I have an experience of 8+ years both in national (CBSE) and international curriculum (IB). I was Emotional learning coordinator and grade 5 Homeroom mentor at IB continuum school, Genesis Global School, Noida till 2022. I moved to MYP in July 2022 as IB Mathematics educator and SEL coordinator. I am a tech-savvy educator and am a Microsoft innovative educator expert (fourth year in a row). I am also Flip Student voice ambassador and Abode creative educator. I also worked as Global school advocate (a UN SDGSN initiative ). I am leading the grade level team for Mathematics and grade level IDU coordinator as well for MYP 1.

 In pursuit of sharing  my knowledge and experience with the educator community, I have led several sessions in JAS (Job alike sessions) for NINNS and recently concluded SAIBSA at our school (North India and Nepal Network of Schools) like Inquiry in Mathematics, Digital citizenship, Hybrid teaching and learning to name a few. I am also a certified LAMDA educator and believes in the power of drama and play in the classroom.

Tannu Jain 

The Indian public school 

IB educator since 2012. Passionate about sharing , collaborating and learning with passionate educators. Facilitated sessions in SAIBSA, Focus meet and in school professional development. Completed the train the trainer course. Currently, doing the  professional certification in instructional design.

Sangita R Nair 

The Indian public school 

I am an experienced PYP educator with over 8 years of teaching experience in upper primary. I hold a Master’s degree in Computer Science Engineering and have completed the necessary training and certifications required for PYP teaching. I have facilitated workshops in school and at various conferences on ways to promote agency, implementing solo taxonomy, assessments, planning inquiry and lot more.

Throughout my teaching career, I have developed a deep understanding of the PYP framework and have mastered the skills in planning, delivering, and assessing engaging and challenging learning experiences for my students. I have a passion for inquiry-based learning, believe in student and teacher agency and strive to create a positive and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive to achieve their full potential.

I have a proven track record of success in helping students develop a strong foundation in key subject areas, as well as in nurturing their social and emotional skills. I am adept at using a variety of teaching strategies and technologies to meet the diverse needs of my students, and ever committed to ongoing professional development to stay up-to-date with the latest educational trends and best practices.

Outside of the classroom, I am an active member of the school community, participating in various extracurricular activities and collaborating with colleagues to promote the PYP philosophy and enhance the overall learning experience for students. Being dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of young learners I am excited to continue my journey as a PYP educator.

Aisha Taylor 

The International School of Azerbaijan 

As a technology consultant and educator, I have extensive experience in the corporate, public, and private education sectors. I am passionate about facilitating communication between technical experts and clients, and specialize in incorporating technology into all levels of education. I am dedicated to educating children in STEM disciplines and aim to contribute my knowledge and skills in a role that exposes more children to opportunities to explore STEM career fields.

Currently, I serve as an IB MYP Design and Math teacher at The International School of Azerbaijan, where I have developed and improved Design units for M1 - M5. Before joining The International School of Azerbaijan, I worked as a Learning Technology Strategist at Xerox/BP. Additionally, I have worked as an Instructional Designer for various companies and as an Artificial Intelligence Engineer at The MITRE Corporation.

I hold a Master of Education in Applied Cognition & Development from the University of Georgia, and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering with a focus in Artificial intelligence from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. I am committed to making a positive impact in education and technology, and I am eager to continue exploring new ways to integrate technology into learning to help prepare students for the future.

Shalini Raj

PYP Coordinator

D Y Patil International School

An early years educator and coordinator who is passionate about supporting young children's development during their formative years. With over 13 years of experience in this field, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of quality early childhood education. I firmly believe that it lays the foundation for lifelong learning and empowers children to become creators of their own history.

My approach to teaching is grounded in my philosophy of "BUILDING HISTORY MAKERS." As an educator, I have learned that providing a strong foundation for learning and growth during the early years can set children on a path to success and happiness in the years to come.

My experience has reinforced my belief in the power of education to transform lives. It's my goal to continue inspiring fellow educators and to make a positive impact on the lives of young learners, who are not only today's learners but also tomorrow's leaders.

Rizwana Khan

Head of Department (Language B) and CAS Coordinator

D Y Patil International School

Having16 years of experience, I am a committed language educator with a diverse range of skills across different curriculum such as CBSE, ICSE, IGCSE and IB.  I have showcased my leadership skills and ability to manage and coordinate programs effectively over the past years.

 I possess interpersonal and problem-solving skills, making myself an effective communicator who can help students overcome challenges and difficulties. I follow time management skills to manage multiple tasks effectively, ensuring that students receive the necessary attention and guidance.

I strongly believe in building self-esteem and comfort among learners, as it is the key to developing their skills. I also believe that teachers play a crucial role in inspiring learners through their journey of overall development.

Santosh Mandhare

Economics facilitator and HOD of Humanities

D Y Patil International School

Hello, I am Santosh Mandhare, an Economics Facilitator who has been committed to providing quality education to students for over 20 years. I hold a B.Ed. in Economics and dual master's degrees in Economics and Commerce, which gives me a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of Economics and Business studies. I am also a certified IB teacher and Examiner for internal assessment as well as external IB papers.

For the past 12 years, I have been working with reputed international schools, teaching higher secondary students the principles of Economics and Business. Currently, I am serving as the Head of Humanities, Extended Essay Coordinator, and Economics Facilitator at D Y Patil International School, Mumbai.

I am well-versed in teaching the IB curriculum through inquiry-based learning using a student-centred and collaboration approach. I have designed and organised teaching materials to enhance the learning experience of students.

As a leader, I play a pivotal role in developing the curriculum to keep up with relevant changes in the field of IB Education and encourage a wide range of activities to foster real-life application and critical thinking skills. I am always eager to explore innovative teaching and learning techniques to strengthen my professional skills and share my knowledge with fellow teachers.

With my advanced knowledge of IB Education, practical pedagogy, teaching experience, enthusiasm for education, and my ability to connect with educators, I have become a popular IB facilitator.

Aditi Shah

A Levels coordinator and Foreign Languages facilitator 

D Y Patil International School

I have had the privilege of working in the field of education for over a decade, where my passion for languages has driven me to become a dedicated French and Spanish language facilitator for IGCSE and IBDP. As an educationist, I am deeply committed to helping students develop 21st-century skills and a passion for lifelong learning, vital for their success in our rapidly evolving world. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to serve as a Cambridge CLS, IGCSE, and A Levels coordinator, collaborating with my teams to design and implement student-centered environments that foster curiosity and critical thinking, ultimately leading to outstanding outcomes for our students.

While I am proud of the achievements we have made, I believe that there is always room for improvement and growth. I remain committed to continuing my evolution as a leader and educator, creating dynamic and immersive learning environments that inspire, challenge and empower students to reach their full potential.

Ingur Shefalika

Head of Curriculum

D Y Patil International School

I have been a part of the international teaching and learning community for about 20 years. In this time, I have worked as a IGCSE/IBDP Geography/Global Perspectives facilitator, MYP Coordinator and Senior Management Team member in some of the best international schools in India and abroad. I have been a part of the core team, which helped set up two very reputed international schools in the country. Training teachers and supervising teams that design and write curriculum to keep up with the needs of the 21st century learners has always been a key part of my job.

The reason I am still an educator in this cynical world is my strong belief that if facilitated correctly, only education will bring about the change we want see in this world. And this what keeps me going.