“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness”.
Desmond Tutu
Welcome to 2021! This time last year, we were happily welcoming 2020. None of us had a clue that it would be a year like no other. We were filled with hope and optimism, and that is exactly what we have to do even as we enter 2021. No matter what 2021 brings, we must face it with hope and optimism. COVID-19 has presented us with great challenges, some of which still continue even as of today. But it has also helped us to grow and evolve in ways that we would never have even dreamed of. It is fair to say that in many instances, the global pandemic may have kept us apart physically, but it has bonded us together in hearts, minds and spirits. We have seen humanity at its best in many instances.
As educators, the global pandemic has; stretched us, challenged us, and also given us the opportunity to grow as a profession. Educators in this region are being applauded the world over, for how they used their ingenuity and skills to keep teaching and learning going, no matter what. It is fair to say that amidst the challenges, teachers excelled during this period like the ray of hope that they are.
As we move into 2021, let us keep this light of hope burning bright. Like Desmond Tutu says, in the quote above, we have to be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel despite all the darkness which currently surrounds us. After what I hope was a restful winter break, I hope you are rearing to go into this new school term.
We here at Teach Middle East Magazine are delighted that you are taking time to read the current issue of the magazine. We value you as readers and look forward to serving you even more in the new year. Although we might not be able to get together physically at events in the near future, we are hopeful that later on this year, we will be able to host conferences and other events again. In the meantime, we have a few great virtual events lined up for you in the first quarter of 2021, starting with the STEM MENA virtual conference in March 2021. Visit www.teachmiddleeastmag.com to find out more about all that we have coming up.
This issue, like all our past issues, is packed with fantastic articles, written by educators for educators. We hope to inspire you to do your best work as an educator in 2021 and beyond. This issue has a particular focus on leadership. We believe that leadership is everyone’s responsibility and that it is not confined to a particular role.
Come with us as we visit one of the oldest schools in Dubai which predominantly, serves the Emirati community. Al Ittihad Private School Al Mamzar is proudly celebrating 40+ years of excellence and service to its community., Join us, in this issue of the magazine, as we celebrate the school’s achievements .
I hope that you enjoy this issue. I would also like to issue a special invitation to all educators to get in touch with us; submit your articles, offer suggestions and ideas—email editor@teachuae.com. Always remember to join other connected educators and us, on social media at Teach Middle East Magazine on Facebook, LinkedIn and @teachmiddleeast on Twitter.
I wish you all a great 2021!
Leisa Grace Wilson
Editorial Director
Teach Middle East Magazine.
