Advisory Board

Mona Baba Merii

Mona Baba Merii is an independent Education Consultant and Coach with over 20 years of international experience.  She has successfully established and transformed numerous Student Support and Special Education Needs (SEN) departments across a variety of schools in the UAE. With a diverse background as a teacher, SENCo, leader, consultant, and coach, she brings a unique perspective that positively impacts students, parents, and educators alike.  Her commitment to educational excellence has earned her the Sheikh Zayed Private Academy’s Award.  She holds a Master of Arts in Education from the Institute of Education, UCL.

Dr. Jennie Telus

Dr. Jennie Telus, a proud Haitian-Bahamian, brings over 12 years of international experience in education, with a specialization in inclusive education. Her diverse cultural background has been instrumental in shaping her commitment to creating accessible and equitable learning environments for all students. Dr. Telus holds a Doctorate in Education with a focus on Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis. She has worked extensively across the U.S., UAE, Hong Kong, and China, advocating for student success through curriculum development, professional training, and individualised support for students with varying learning needs.

Jess Coburn

Jess Coburn is the founder of Stress Busters, a consultancy and training company focused on child development and mental health. 

With a degree in Community and Health Psychology, specializing in child and adolescent development, Jess created Stress Busters to equip families with the knowledge and tools needed to support their children. Committed to inclusivity, Stress Busters ensures every child, regardless of background or ability, has access to resources that foster growth and well-being

Emmanual Awoyelu

Emmanuel is an accomplished inclusion specialist teacher based in the Middle East, bringing over 10 years of diverse experience as a learning support assistant, teacher, and senior leader in special education, public schools, and international schools. With a strong commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments, he has significantly impacted students' lives across various educational settings.

In addition to his teaching career, Emmanuel served as a director of a charity in London, focusing on educational equity. He has also provided consultancy for prominent organizations, including the Chartered College of Teaching, Mary Myatt, and the Mark Allen Group. As an avid writer, public speaker, and trainer, Emmanuel passionately shares insights on inclusive practices and educational leadership, inspiring educators worldwide to create more equitable learning environments. 

Benjamin Crosby

As the Head of Inclusion at Raha International School Gardens Campus, I, Ben Crosby, am passionate about creating an environment where all students feel welcomed, supported, and able to succeed.

Originally from New Zealand, I bring a wealth of experience in working with students with high to very high needs, particularly those with autism. My professional philosophy centres around the belief that every child has the right to attend their local school and experience success in an inclusive setting.

I am deeply committed to raising awareness, building understanding, and developing expertise among staff, students and the wider community to ensure a culture of inclusion and respect for all learners.

David Muir

David Muir is a member of the Fellowship of the Chartered College of Teaching in the UK. He is a highly experienced education professional with a strong background in school improvement, monitoring, evaluation, and raising achievement across diverse curricula. Formerly one of Her Majesty’s Inspectors (HMI) for Ofsted, a School Principal, a Principal Inspector for KHDA, and an Education Adviser to the Department for Education (UK), David has expertise in various curricula, including the International Baccalaureate, National Curriculum for England, U.S. Common Core Standards, and curricula from India, the Philippines, and Pakistan.

With over 20 years of school leadership experience, David has extensive experience as a school inspector/reviewer/evaluator across various education systems, including Ofsted (UK), KHDA (Dubai), SPEA (Sharjah), SIQA (Pakistan), BQA (Bahrain) and the Cayman Islands.

Dr Sarah Broadhurst

Dr Sarah Broadhurst is the CEO of the Autism Education Trust.  Sarah is passionate about equality and the importance of valuing diversity; throughout her career she has focused on improving inclusion and accessibility for marginalised groups by advocating for their voices to be heard, respected and acted upon. 

Sarah began this life-long mission when she started her first job working in social care supporting adults with learning disabilities.  Since then Sarah has undertaken roles that have worked across health, social care and education.

Sarah has a doctorate in applied psychology of learning disabilities and autism, a post-graduate certificate in teaching in higher education and is a qualified coach.

Emma Dibden

Following over two decades of education experience, ending with the role of Head of Inclusion across two schools in Dubai and the chair of a network of inclusion practitioners, Emma became the Education Specialist for SEND and Wellbeing at GL Education (a Renaissance Company).

Her inclusive values and passion for supporting the whole child continues into her current work where she utilises knowledge learned from previous strategic and operational roles in SEND, alongside her work to support colleagues in international schools, to ensure that data plays a meaningful role in developing an accurate understanding of a students’ individual strengths and challenges.

Frances Marshall

Fran has been teaching for 25 years and is a fully qualified and highly experienced Head of Inclusion across both the primary and secondary age ranges. Having taught in various different settings, including a special school in the UK, three British international schools overseas (Malaysia, Panama and the UAE) and one overseas special school, her experience is quite unique.  

Fran is also a trained and experienced previous Designated Safeguarding Lead, First Aider for Mental Health and is currently studying to be an Access Arrangements Assessor.  Fran is passionate about working with students, parents, and teams of teachers, assistants, counsellors and other professionals to provide individualised and quality inclusion support for students.

Ginette​​​​ Moore

Ginette is a specialist in educational provision for students with additional learning needs; a teacher and school leader in the UK and UAE for almost 25 years, she also worked in the ADEK Students of Determination Office and was a contributor to the ADEK Inclusion Policy published in 2023. 

Ginette is now Assistant Principal with whole school responsibility for inclusion at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, as well as an iSENCo, NASENCo and NPQSENCo tutor.  She is halfway through a professional doctorate in education at the University of Bath, with a focus on special education. 

Heleen van der Merwe

Heleen van der Merwe is an experienced Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) who currently leads the Speech and Language Therapy Department at the Rashid Centre, a role she has held since 2023 after joining the team in 2019.

She manages a team of eight SLTs and provides individual sessions and weekly language groups within classrooms. Her expertise includes developing all aspects of communication, such as listening, expressive language, articulation, and AAC systems like British Makaton, picture symbols, and high-tech devices. She also plays a key role in training multidisciplinary teams and guiding parents.

Jack Churchill OBE

Jack Churchill OBE is proud to be the Co-Founder of Scanning Pens & Empowering Tech. He holds a BSc in Information Systems & Publishing from Oxford Brookes University.  He established the assistive technology company Scanning Pens 20 years ago because he’s passionate about technology being a great enabler.

Being dyslexic himself, Jack is determined to help young people and adults with reading difficulties reach their potential.   Jack is proud to be a board member of the British Assistive Technology Association (BATA) and the US Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) and be a DIT Export Champ.

Kemi Oluyinka

Kemi Oluyinka is an experienced SENCO, Science Teacher, educational leader with experience as an Assistant Headteacher, Educational Consultant and the Founder of the Black Teachers Network.

Kemi is using her platform and expertise in education and  EDI to support fellow teachers in the education sector and to increase the number of Black teachers in education and progress into leadership. Kemi is passionate about students with SEND achieving the best possible outcomes and experiencing success in and out of the classroom. She has worked in education since 2013 and has experience of working in mainstream secondary schools, a pupil referral unit and an international Private school in Dubai. 

Leah Vahanian

Leah's teaching experience, spanning over 12 years both internationally and in Canada, showcases her commitment to education. Beyond her teaching roles, her passion for interior design and a keen interest in emotional wellness have shaped her unique approach to creating learning spaces.

Leah's specialization in creating biophilic designs for classrooms and communal learning spaces underscores her commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive environments. By incorporating biophilic elements into her designs, Leah not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of these spaces but also addresses the importance of connecting students with nature. The emphasis on emotional wellness in Leah's approach recognizes the interconnectedness of mental and emotional well-being with the learning process.

Overall, Leah's focus on biophilic designs reflects a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to education, acknowledging that the physical environment plays a crucial role in shaping the learning experience.

Rachel King

Rachel King is Head of Middle East & International School groups, Renaissance Global

Rachel brings a wealth of expertise with 23 years of experience as a Client Account Director, managing relationships with some of the world’s most prominent global brands. She has a proven track record of working closely with C-Suite executives, including 8 years of specialized experience with Ministries, Multi-Academy Trusts, and International School Groups worldwide. Rachel’s extensive background in client management and strategic direction makes her an invaluable asset to our team.  

Sureya Bibi

Sureya has been teaching for nearly 20 years and has held various leadership positions within Primary Education.  She is a UK-qualified Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) and her experience is primarily in outstanding London schools and in two outstanding international private British schools in Abu Dhabi.  Supporting children with special educational needs is a particular passion for Sureya, especially in the areas of social, emotional, and mental health.  She has a keen interest in identifying and supporting girls with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ensuring they receive the tailored assistance they need to thrive.

Sureya holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and a Postgraduate Certificate in Special Educational Needs Coordination (PGCert NASENCO) from the Institute of Education, University College London (UCL). 

Paddy McGrath

Educator, international keynote speaker, blogger, panellist, podcaster and Head of Education at the Texthelp Group - the world's largest specialist assistive technology company. Paddy is a passionate, expert advocate of inclusion, accessibility and universal design through policy, culture and practice. With a specialism in SEND, Paddy lives by the phrase “Education for Everyone”, delivering keynotes, workshops sessions and policy guidance grounded in pedagogy that leverage technology and AI to deliver meaningful and sustainable impact on teaching, learning and lives.

A Google Certified Trainer and Apple Education Mentor, Paddy has received the UK Digital Leader 100 award and an Honorary Fellowship of the University of Ulster (School of Education). 

Marc Ashford

Marc Ashford is the CEO of Transform International, a specialised recruitment agency focused on bridging the gap between top-tier educators and schools across the Middle East. With over 15 years of expertise in leadership and recruitment, Marc brings a strategic approach to sourcing talent, ensuring that schools are matched with educators who can truly enhance student outcomes. His passion for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) advocacy stems from a personal place—Marc’s son, who is deaf, has driven his commitment to making education universally accessible and inclusive.

Marc believes that quality recruitment goes beyond filling roles; it’s about creating supportive, inclusive environments where every child has the opportunity to succeed. 

Abdul Raheem Hafeez

With over a decade of expertise in data management and school improvement, Abdul is a seasoned educational leader currently serving as the Assistant Principal at GEMS FirstPoint School. He brings over five years of experience in the UAE educational sector, having relocated in 2019, along with extensive experience supporting a diverse range of schools across the UK.

A leading expert in educational data and information systems, Abdul has a proven track record of creating data-driven and informed cultures across organizations. He has raised standards through the implementation of robust and rigorous systems, and has consistently improved teaching and learning standards through innovative technologies.

Prior to his current role, Abdul served as Director of Data and Information Systems at GEMS Winchester School – Fujairah, where he led initiatives to optimize data processes and systems across the institution. He has also worked as a Specialist Leader of Education (SLE), providing expert guidance to schools, and served as a Data Analyst at Swiss Cottage School Development & Research Centre in the UK.

Abdul holds a UK qualification in School Business Management, a National Senior Leadership qualification (NPQSL), and a Master’s degree in Information and Operational Management. In 2018, the National College for Teaching & Leadership recognized him as a Specialist Leader of Education (SLE) following his completion of the London Aspiring Leaders programme in 2016.

Berna Bouwer

With nearly 25 years of experience, Berna is a dedicated Educational Leader and Educational Psychologist committed to advancing Inclusive practices. She began her career as a primary school teacher in South Africa, specializing in Mathematics and ELL, and has since worked in a range of environments, including schools catering to students with diverse learning needs. After earning her MEd in Educational Psychology, Berna worked as a school psychologist and managed a private practice. Her international experience includes roles in Dubai as a Director of Inclusion, Deputy Head, Year 1 -6 teacher, GCSE Psychology teacher,  ABA Therapist, and Inclusion Specialist. In the UK, she served as Lead Inclusion Specialist for GEMS (UK & Europe), a senior school teacher of mathematics and psychology GCSE. Later becoming Head of Prep at Sherfield School, as well as Head of Inclusion, DSL, and Pastoral Deputy Head (Whole School). Berna has recently returned to the UAE as Corporate Head of Inclusion for GEMS Education, where she is responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of comprehensive inclusion strategies and initiatives across the network of schools. Berna is passionate about cultivating a culture of inclusion and excellence, not only in GEMS but also in the region.

Dr Rukiya Deetjen Ruiz

Scholar at the Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Accessibility in Higher Education.

Dr. Rukiya Deetjen Ruiz is an educational strategist and researcher operating at the intersection of artificial intelligence and accessibility. Her work is rooted in creating inclusive academic environments that leverage technology to support diverse learner needs, with a particular focus on cognitive accessibility and equity. Holding a PhD in Educational Leadership, she has led initiatives in both the United States and MENA region, advancing inclusive accessibility frameworks and compliance protocols across higher education institutions.

Her research, published in Scopus-indexed journals, explores the implications of AI for neurodiversity, and she collaborates internationally to set new standards in accessible technology and student engagement. Dr. Deetjen Ruiz serves in advisory roles for TES Middle East, PriMera Scientific Publications, and Special Olympics Research Collaborative, shaping policy and practice for inclusive education. She remains committed to redefining the educational landscape to reflect emerging AI capabilities in support of marginalized learners.

Hannah Docherty

Hannah Docherty is a dedicated leader in inclusive education, holding Master's degrees in Inclusive Education and Psychology and working towards a Ph.D. in Education and Social Justice. She combines deep theoretical knowledge with practical expertise to enhance schools’ academic, social, and communication standards. Hannah’s collaborative approach empowers educators to embed effective inclusive practices and create learning environments where all students feel supported to explore their interests and build on their strengths. With a proven record in strategic development, she identifies barriers to inclusion and implements creative strategies to drive change. Committed to fostering environments where every student thrives, Hannah champions inclusive practices that break down barriers and celebrate diversity, ensuring that all learners—regardless of background, ethnicity, gender, or learning needs—are set up for success.

Margaret Mullholland

Margaret Mulholland is an inclusion consultant, policy specialist at ASCL and regular commentator in the education press. Margaret is an Honorary Norham Fellow at the Department of Education, University of Oxford. She is currently, SEND policy lead for the Association of School & College Leaders and is a monthly columnist for the TES.

Saijid Gulzar

Sajid is Principal of the prestigious, outstanding rated Kings’ School Al Barsha in Dubai. He joined Kings’ in 2023 having successfully founded and led, as CEO a multi-academy trust in Birmingham serving some of the most underserved communities in England. Sajid took on his first headship in Birmingham in 2009 and as both headteacher and CEO has turned around several failing schools as well as founding a brand-new secondary school.

Sajid has worked in leadership development for over a decade, mentoring and coaching senior leaders and contributing to the development of several  leadership courses including the ASCL Trust Leaders Executive Programme. He has successfully led a special needs teacher development project on behalf of the National Association of Special Needs (nasen) and the British Council, and served as an advisor to the Department for Education. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to education by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2019.