Tell us why you became a teacher

Over 3 decades ago, at my Kinder graduation, I declared, "I want to be a teacher when I grow up." But life took me on different paths. After years in HR, a professional exchange in Japan reignited the dream. I discovered my true calling with preschoolers in Tokushima, which continued to flourish with children in Australia. These global encounters redefined my purpose. Now in Texas, the mission lives on: shaping young lives and mentoring the next generation of early childhood educators.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Offering a new culture and a foreign language to navigate, Japan gave me my most memorable teaching experience. I felt unequipped and lacked a formal teaching background, but witnessing the genuine connection with my students proved that the heart is a teacher's most powerful tool. The children showed me that love is a universal language, spoken and understood far beyond words. Strong and positive relationships are indeed the foundation for a truly engaging and interactive learning experience.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’d fly to Japan in a heartbeat, visit the school where my teaching dream came to life, the community that shaped my educational philosophy. I will fund a scholarship at my alma mater in the Philippines to assist some students in pursuing their dreams. I will support my school-supporting church in Australia with their endeavors. I will donate towards my church and campus needs in Texas, and celebrate with and inspire my students and colleagues to continue the mission of education.