Leading the Market

What sets CallTower apart in the market is its commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and seamless integration. It is constantly exploring new technologies and solutions to ensure its clients have access to the most advanced and reliable communication tools available. Its strategic partnerships with industry leaders like Microsoft, Cisco, and Zoom enable CallTower to offer a diverse range of solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of its clients.
Another key differentiator is its customer-centric approach. CallTower takes the time to understand its client’s unique challenges and objectives and works closely with them to develop customized solutions that drive success. Its dedicated support teams are always available to provide assistance and ensure a smooth implementation and ongoing management of its services.
“Furthermore, our ability to integrate various communication platforms into a unified system sets us apart. We understand that businesses require flexible and scalable solutions that can adapt to their evolving needs. Our integration capabilities allow us to create cohesive communication environments that enhance collaboration and streamline operations,” says Suzanne Walker, Director of Channel Sales at CallTower.

Unwavering Support

CallTower supports its clients in achieving reliable, stable, and scalable communication solutions through a combination of advanced technology, strategic partnerships, and exceptional customer service. Its approach is centered on understanding its client’s unique needs and delivering tailored solutions that drive success.

CallTower leverages cutting-edge technologies from industry leaders like Microsoft, Cisco, and Zoom to provide robust and reliable communication platforms. These platforms are designed to deliver high performance, scalability, and seamless integration, ensuring that the clients can rely on them for their critical communication needs.

CallTower’s strategic partnerships enable it to offer a diverse range of solutions that can be customized to meet the specific requirements of our clients. Whether it’s integrating Microsoft Teams with existing systems or deploying a comprehensive CCaaS solution, it works closely with its clients to develop and implement solutions that align with their business objectives.

Exceptional customer service is a cornerstone of CallTower’s support strategy. Its dedicated support teams are available 24/7 to assist clients with any issues or questions they may have. It provides comprehensive training and onboarding to ensure that its clients can fully leverage the capabilities of its solutions. Additionally, CallTower’s proactive monitoring and maintenance services help to identify and address potential issues before they impact the clients’ operations.

Scalability is a key consideration in CallTower’s solution design. “We understand that businesses need communication tools that can grow with them. Our solutions are built to be flexible and scalable, allowing clients to easily expand their capabilities as their needs evolve. This ensures that our clients can continue to rely on our solutions as they grow and adapt to new challenges,” shares Suzanne.

The Experienced Leader

Suzanne’s professional journey has been a dynamic and rewarding experience, marked by a continuous pursuit of growth and excellence. She began her career in the telecommunications industry initially working in sales and account management roles. Her early experiences in this sector exposed her to the transformative power of communication technologies and their impact on business efficiency and collaboration.
Suzanne was particularly inspired by the potential of unified communications (UC) to revolutionize the way organizations operate. The ability to integrate various communication tools into a cohesive system that enhances productivity and connectivity was a concept that deeply resonated with her. This inspiration led her to specialize in UC solutions, and she eventually joined CallTower, where she could leverage her expertise to drive innovation and deliver exceptional value to clients.
“Throughout my career, I have been motivated by the challenge of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. The technological advancements and the ever-changing needs of businesses have kept me engaged and passionate about my work. At CallTower, I have had the privilege of working with a talented team and leading our efforts in the Mid-Atlantic & Southeast markets, where we continue to set new benchmarks in the UCaaS and CCaaS landscape,” reflects Suzanne.

Guiding Principle on Professional Journey

Suzanne’s working style can be described as collaborative, strategic, and customer-centric. She believes in fostering a collaborative environment where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their best ideas. Collaboration is the cornerstone of innovation, and by encouraging open communication and teamwork, we can achieve greater success collectively, feels Suzanne.
Strategic thinking is another key aspect of her working style. Suzanne approaches challenges with a long-term perspective, always considering how our actions today will impact our goals in the future. This mindset allows her to make informed decisions that align with CallTower’s overall business objectives and drive sustainable growth.

Customer-centricity is at the heart of everything Suzanne does. Understanding the unique needs and pain points of clients is essential to delivering solutions that truly make a difference. By putting the customers first and consistently exceeding their expectations, she helps build lasting relationships and foster loyalty.
The aims and ideals that guide Suzanne in her professional journey include integrity, innovation, and continuous improvement. Integrity is the foundation of trust, and she strives to uphold the highest ethical standards in all her interactions. “Lastly, continuous improvement is a principle that ensures we never become complacent. There is always room for growth, and I encourage my team to embrace a mindset of learning and development,” she shares.

Challenges and Opportunities in Business Communication Landscape

The current business communication landscape is characterized by rapid technological advancements and shifting work environments. Suzanne remarks that one of the primary challenges is the need for organizations to adapt to the increasing demand for remote and hybrid work solutions. As more businesses embrace flexible work arrangements, there is a growing need for robust and reliable communication tools that can support remote collaboration and ensure business continuity.
Another challenge is the complexity of managing multiple communication platforms and ensuring seamless integration. Organizations often struggle with disparate systems that hinder productivity and create inefficiencies. The challenge, observes Suzanne, lies in unifying these platforms into a cohesive and user-friendly system that enhances communication and collaboration.

Data security and privacy concerns also pose significant challenges. Per Suzanne, with the rise of cyber threats and stringent data protection regulations, businesses must ensure that their communication solutions are secure and compliant. This requires continuous monitoring, regular updates, and the implementation of robust security measures.

Despite these challenges, there are numerous opportunities in the business communication landscape. The increasing adoption of AI and automation technologies presents exciting possibilities for enhancing communication and improving customer experiences. AI-powered tools can streamline workflows, provide valuable insights, and automate routine tasks, allowing businesses to focus on more strategic initiatives.
“The demand for unified communication solutions is also driving innovation in the industry. As businesses seek to enhance their communication capabilities, there is a growing opportunity to develop and deliver advanced UCaaS and CCaaS solutions that meet their evolving needs. Companies that can offer flexible, scalable, and integrated solutions will be well-positioned to capitalize on this demand,” shares Suzanne.
Staying Ahead

CallTower stays ahead of technological advancements in the communication industry through a proactive approach to innovation, strategic partnerships, and continuous learning. It is committed to being at the forefront of the industry, and this commitment drives its efforts to stay informed and responsive to emerging trends and technologies.

Innovation is a core value at CallTower. The company invests in research and development to explore new technologies and solutions that can enhance its offerings. “Our dedicated innovation team is constantly evaluating new tools and platforms to ensure that we can provide our clients with the most advanced and effective communication solutions available,” shares Suzanne.
Strategic partnerships play a crucial role in CallTower’s ability to stay ahead. It collaborates with industry leaders like Microsoft, Cisco, and Zoom to leverage their expertise and access cutting-edge technologies. These partnerships enable it to integrate the latest advancements into its solutions and offer its clients the best-in-class communication tools.

Continuous learning is another key aspect of CallTower’s strategy. It encourages its team members to stay informed about industry developments through ongoing training, certifications, and participation in industry events. This ensures that the team is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to implement and support the latest technologies.
“We also actively engage with our clients to understand their evolving needs and gather feedback on our solutions. This feedback loop allows us to identify areas for improvement and stay aligned with the changing demands of the market. By being responsive to our clients’ needs and proactive in our approach to innovation, we can maintain our position as a leader in the communication industry,” says Suzanne.

A Collaborative Approach to Success

Collaboration is a fundamental element of CallTower’s business strategy. It underpins the company’s approach to innovation, customer service, and internal operations. It believes that effective collaboration leads to better outcomes, and strives to foster a collaborative environment both within the organization and with the clients and partners.

“Internally, collaboration is key to driving innovation and delivering high-quality solutions. Our teams work closely across departments to share insights, brainstorm ideas, and develop new solutions. This cross-functional collaboration ensures that we leverage diverse perspectives and expertise, leading to more innovative and effective communication tools.

With our clients, collaboration is essential to understanding their unique needs and delivering tailored solutions. We engage in regular consultations with our clients to gather insights into their challenges and objectives. This collaborative approach allows us to co-create solutions that align with their business goals and deliver maximum value,” sums up Suzanne.

Quote: Innovation drives progress, and I am committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements to offer cutting-edge solutions.
Quote: Our partnerships with industry leaders are also built on a foundation of collaboration. We work closely with partners like Microsoft.

With the increase in life expectancy, the aging of population is inevitable and constitutes not only a focus of societal attention but also a major health concern. As our body gradually ages, we become more prone to multi-comorbidities leading to the use of multiple medications at the same time. The potential adverse drug event risk may exceed benefits associated with the use of such drug combinations. The process of drug development is aimed at evaluating drug efficacy, however it is much less effective at detecting and quantifying risks of adverse drug reactions. Drug safety, thus, has been a critical concern in healthcare.

Adverse drug events are among the top 5 leading causes of death in the United States. However, studies also show that 50% up to 80% of adverse drug events are preventable. Adverse drug events are a significant economic burden to any country’s healthcare system, including to patients, providers, and insurers. Adverse drug event management represents up to $30 billion annually in the U.S. In addition to monetary cost, adverse drug events result in psychological and physical harms to patient contributing to decreased patient satisfaction and lack of trust in health care. To help people avoid preventable morbidity and mortality from their medication regimen with real-time data that inspire safer, more effective treatment, GalenusRx’s is committed to deliver solutions promoting trust relationship between patients and health care providers.

GalenusRx’s solution helps manage drug safety programs, empowering patients, providers, and pharmacists in a safe and effective medication management process. In the last 25 years, they have extensively published in peer-reviewed journals about the impact of their approach to help manage patients with polypharmacy. 

“Not only have we demonstrated an association between various factors and patients’ outcomes, but also, we have demonstrated that it is possible to reverse and prevent adverse drug vents,” says Veronique Michaud, Founder, President and Chief Operating Officer of GalenusRx.

The Inception Story

Veronique completed her formation in pharmacy (B. Pharm.) with the desire to provide the best care possible to patients. She practiced for 8 years as a community pharmacist and was pleased with the interventions that she made daily. However, she saw too many cases of patients experiencing side effects due to their medications, and most often, due to the inappropriate combination of too many drugs. These situations distressed her at times and motivated her to engage and change the way clinical pharmacy could be practiced.

Hence, Veronique undertook and completed a master’s degree (MSc) in pharmacokinetics, to understand better how drugs are cleared from the body. This was followed by a PhD in drug metabolism to appreciate in more detail the processes involved in drug clearance (enzymes and transporters). Then she made her first post-doctoral research fellowship at McGill University, in Montreal, where she looked at genetic determinants of patients’ response to HIV drugs. Finally, Veronique completed her formation by a second post-doctoral fellowship at Indiana University in Indianapolis where she studied pharmacogenomics, i.e., factors responsible for the inter-individual variability in drug response.
After 17 years of extensive education and research, Veronique was recruited as an assistant professor at, the Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, and established my laboratory at the Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal. Her research proposals were evaluated and rated highly by peers, and she received important funding from major granting agencies in Quebec and Canada. She recruited students and led independent drug research in her own laboratory which resulted in important peer-reviewed publications.

In 2001, while Veronique was pursuing her academic career, she was presented with the opportunity to co-found IntermedRx, a spin-off company from the Université de Montréal. Their objective was to develop a clinical decision support system that could help clinicians address the issues associated with polypharmacy and adverse drug events. They first created a table that was distributed to clinicians. This “paper tool” evolved into a web-based application that was used by pharmacists in more than 100 community pharmacies and by specialty pharmacists in 10 hospitals in Canada.

In 2013, the InterMedRx application was licensed to CareKinesis (USA). The application was used very successfully by pharmacists and demonstrated a high impact on patients’ outcomes. In 2016, InterMedRx was bought by Tabula Rasa HealthCare (TRHC) as they were entering into an initial public offering (IPO) on the NASDAQ. Veronique then moved to the U.S. to work for TRHC as VP of Scientific Affairs, and in 2019, launched the Precision Pharmacotherapy Research and Development Institute as Chief Operating Officer. During her tenure, the institute published more than 100 peer-reviewed papers.
In 2023, Veronique’s views started to differ from those of the leadership at TRHC. Their position and decisions led her to co-found GalenusRx. While being authentic and trusting their inner wisdom, Veronique and her business and life partner moved out of their comfort zone and embarked on this new journey of launching GalenusRx. An opportunity to begin again, even more cleverly!

Leading with Focus 

As President and COO of GalenusRx, Veronique leads the company’s scientific research, product, and development team to develop GalenusRx’s innovative suite of healthcare solutions. She has spent over 20 years thinking about how to design the perfect tool that would support clinicians in their decision-making process while establishing a drug regimen. Medications are complex, and as patients live longer with more chronic diseases, they are exposed to more drugs. On one hand, medications are the number one intervention used clinically to improve patients’ outcomes. On the other hand, adverse drug events are among the top 5 leading causes of death. The goal of GalenusRx is to develop a suite of solutions that reconcile these various elements.

Founding a successful company requires the identification of markets where the implementation of a new solution becomes a differentiator, a game changer. Competitive solutions currently available on the market have limited applications. The unique and combined features of GalenusRx solutions make offering its technology and services possible to various markets such as consumers, providers, health and life insurers, and companies involved in pharmaceutical clinical trials.

GalenusRx’s clinical decision support system (CDSS) is unique of its kind, using clinician-informed machine learning and complex algorithms to analyze multiple drugs simultaneously. For instance, other systems on the market analyze one-drug to one-drug interactions. GalenusRx CDSS considers numerous factors related to drug characteristics to prevent various adverse drug events. In particular, it generates a numerical value that allows clinicians to appreciate the appropriateness of a drug regimen. Their technology leverages unique, advanced, science-backed algorithms that look at factors such as pharmacogenomic testing, for precise, medication safety. 

“The GalenusRx strategy is supported by advanced scientific research and peer-reviewed publications, offering several benefits to patients, healthcare professionals, insurers, and healthcare organizations. Hence, our solutions help clinicians to intervene on patients taking multiple drugs, making meaningful recommendations and personalized medication regimen assessments,” shares Veronique.

Dealing Head-on with Challenges

Magaret Thatcher said, “If you want something said, ask a man. If you want something done, ask a woman”. Veronique is a “doer”; this is reflected in her working style! She is both a hands-on and hands-off leader. She strongly believes in an important personal fit between team members that builds on excellence and highly competent individuals. All these characteristics are extremely important. So, she cultivates relationships with her team and invests her time to mentor them professionally and personally. 

“I designed a team that can both work independently and together to achieve mission-driven objectives and goals. The team is built on 1) a capacity to achieve and, 2) a strong level of trust. I am fortunate to have a team that is highly invested in GalenusRx’s success,” she says.

Speaking about challenges, Veronique shares that changes in the culture of an organization prompt her to act. Several individuals will lose motivation when their objectives are not aligned with those of the institution, whether it is academia, government, or industry. She is one of them. She co-founded the GalenusRx company with people she trusts and believes in, and who trust and believe in her. Founding her own company with partners allowed me to develop more innovative solutions to improve and save lives. 

“GalenusRx purpose: To improve health by helping people avoid preventable morbidity and mortality from their medication regimens, and mission: To provide disruptive and unique precision medication regimen technology and consulting services known as Lifesaving Insights, which lessen the risk of preventable drug-disease and polypharmacy mis-adventuring, make me breathe every day,” she says.

Making people realize that medication-related problems are a leading cause of death has been a challenge but a driving force since the early years of Veronique’s career. She strongly suggests that Policies and practices regarding the reduction of harm related to drugs must be improved. 
“Our challenge is to implement a new philosophy as it pertains to the reduction of drug-related problems and medication safety. A successful strategy while addressing problems often lies in inspiration and convincing others rather than imposing your views. I have learned that implementing long-lasting significant changes and worldwide practices takes effort, takes time, so patience, perseverance, resilience, and humility are key,” says Veronique.

A Shift Due to the Pandemic

Veronique feels that telehealth has the potential to transform and revolutionize health care by improving accessibility to care, improving patient outcomes, and reducing costs. The pandemic has allowed the development and adoption of a hybrid model of care delivery at a very fast pace. Major technologies made significant progress more quickly than expected. Moving healthcare delivery into the homes of patients represents a great opportunity for GalenusRx as it opens new avenues of care. It propelled the company into a new “space” of medication safety management (eMSM) and personalized telepharmacy services. 

“We strongly believe that our eMSM solution can improve patient’s journey by offering an alternative way to connect with specialized pharmacists and their health care team. We will continue to drive innovation and help bring eMSM into a continuum of care,” asserts Veronique.

One notable change that many industries experienced during and following the pandemic is the further emergence of remote work. GalenusRx’s team transitioned from full-time in-person work to full-time remote work. This transition required them to think outside the box as they were a highly collaborative team. When they were in the office, their meetings were sporadic or team-based, and meeting individually with team members allowed Veronique to develop her leadership style, but also cultivate unique relationships with each team member. While the transition to remote work was challenging, it ultimately allowed her to develop additional elements of her leadership skills and strengthen her relationships with the team. 

Another challenge, shares Veronique, has been hiring team members. GalenusRx’s team has excellent rapport, and when hiring, she wants to ensure that the person will integrate well with the team, in a fully remote environment. Team members have consistently highlighted “relationship with colleagues” as one of the best parts of their job, – this led Veronique to hire based on the personality and capacity of the person rather than only on their existing skillset. 

“This has been an incredibly successful tactic, and our team continues to thrive under this model. Having a working remotely environment opens the door to individuals not restrained to a geographic area or to specific familial conditions. The “hiring market possibility” is therefore largely augmented,” she shares.

Solutions backed by Technology

While GalenusRx’s focus is developing a CDSS for drug safety, they have identified several strategies to integrate their science into numerous unique healthcare areas. For example, the company’s biosimulation strategy can be used to assess the impact of novel and existing therapeutics in large, adult populations using real-world data. They can also assess the impact of novel therapeutics against the standard of care. GalenusRx’s biosimulation solution can be performed safely without causing harm to patients and includes marginalized populations, who are usually excluded from clinical trials.

One major element of their solutions is the APPRAISE (Actionable PolyPharmacy Risk Assessment Index for Safety and Equity), a quantitative way to assess the appropriateness of a drug regimen. Every word describing APPRAISE is important: it quantitatively identifies situations that are patient-specific while taking multiple medications, with a fundamental approach taking into consideration safety, diversity, and equity.

Reading the Industry Trends

One of the biggest trends that we see across all sectors is the role of artificial intelligence (AI). Veronique and her team continue to enhance their solutions with advancements in technology and science. AI, when used appropriately, can improve clinician knowledge and patient outcomes. However, AI cannot predict situations that have not been observed previously, or that are rather unique. 
“The issues encountered in a patient taking 25 medications out of the more than 20,000 different entities on the current market (prescribed medications, over-the-counter medications, herbals, natural products, recreational drugs, etc…) are rather unique, but the solution to these problems is not unique. We use clinician-information machine learning and advanced algorithms since together, they represent a better approach to finding the best solution,” explains Veronique.

To keep up with changes in the industry, Veronique reads new research relentlessly. The healthcare industry, specifically pharma, continues to grow with new advancements in medication, medication safety, and technology solutions. As GalenusRx’s team expands, she looks for candidates with unique backgrounds and experiences to round out her already impressive team. This allows GalenusRx to stay ahead of the curve in several different therapeutic areas, such as medications used in cancer and diabetes.

They are also actively involved in research activities. They do not depend only on the discovery or reports from other research groups but also participate in the development of knowledge. 
“We do not only read books, but we also write books! For instance, in the last 3 years, our team has published more than 100 original articles in peer review journals,” shares Veronique.

Gaping Industry Issues

Throwing light on the current challenges in the industry, Veronique shares that as the population ages, patients experience more chronic diseases. More chronic diseases often translate into more medication intake. The CDC reports that 70% of the U.S. population is taking at least one prescription drug while 22% is taking more than five prescription drugs, commonly defined as polypharmacy. These statistics only consider prescription drug use, not over-the-counter or herbal supplements.

Multiple comorbidities also imply that patients see multiple providers to address their numerous conditions. Very often, there is a clear lack of care coordination between the providers which results in prescribing cascades and polypharmacy. Every provider is trying to do their best to manage the disease they are responsible for. However, the 15, 20, or 25 medications that the patient is prescribed, 1-5 from each of the various providers, may not make sense when considering the resulting drug regimen. The system is fragmented which results in a fragmented patient experiencing adverse drug events. We need a quarterback that can look at the appropriateness of the drug regimen. Unfortunately, the solutions that exist are not implemented on a large scale, at the moment.

The drug industry develops medications based on efficacy. If a drug is not efficacious, it does not make it to the market. The FDA and other regulatory agencies are interested in drug safety. And as such, have requested pharmacovigilance programs. Conceptually, these programs require that many patients are exposed to drugs in order to detect signals of drug toxicity (such as the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System). In other words, some patients must have toxicity before drug safety can be evaluated. 
“We believe that biosimulation studies using real-world data is a way to obtain significant information without exposing patients to drugs and side effects,” she states.

It’s Just a Start!

GalenusRx is one year old, and the company continues to grow. Its solutions entered the market in January of this year and are being implemented across several different industries. In the next five years, Veronique and her team’s goal is to continue to develop their CDSS and associated solutions, consistently implementing advancements in science and technology. They also plan to expand their biosimulation strategy to more novel therapeutics and new chemical entities to further increase their impact on drug safety. While there is still much on the horizon for GalenusRx, Veronique is proud of the innovation that her team has accomplished in the past year.

“We are also contemplating the application of our solutions worldwide. The issues observed in patients with polypharmacy are equally present in other countries. Once we have well-established the product in the USA, expansion to the rest of the world is next. We already have discussions with international partners on that matter,” concludes Veronique.

Depression has emerged as a common health issue and a leading cause of disability and underperformance. Despite progress in some countries, people with mental health conditions often experience stigma, discrimination, or even severe human rights violations. It is essential to increase awareness and reduce stigma around mental health, increase access to quality mental health care and effective treatments, and identify new treatments and improve existing treatments for all mental disorders. Africa-based Mondia Healthcare is doing just that – offering treatment options and raising awareness.

Mondia Healthcare offers treatment and support for people struggling with mental health and addiction challenges. All people go through difficult times at some stage and the team believes that– “It is OKAY not to be OKAY and ask for help”.

Led by its CEO, Marisa Henderson, Mondia Healthcare exists to make it possible for psychiatrists, psychologists, and other clinicians to combine their efforts efficiently and effectively. In doing so, they aim to consistently achieve good outcomes for people brought into their system. Their goal is to offer people a treatment program/services and environment that supports and builds on their mental well-being. They strive to cater to the specific and unique needs of the population that they serve and therefore have the concept of wellness at their core.
 
Wholesome Wellness
 
Wellness, explains Marisa, is a multidimensional concept that encompasses eight dimensions. These dimensions are interconnected and influence each other. They are:
1.    Emotional Dimension: Understanding and respecting your feelings, values, and attitudes; constructively managing your emotions.
2.    Physical Dimension: Caring for your body to stay healthy now and in the future; recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy foods, and adequate sleep.
3.    Social Dimension: Maintaining healthy relationships, developing friendships, and contributing to your community.
4.    Intellectual Dimension: Growing intellectually, valuing lifelong learning, and expanding knowledge and skills.
5.    Occupational Dimension: Preparing for and participating in work that provides personal satisfaction and life enrichment.
6.    Financial Dimension: Managing your resources to live within your means, making informed financial decisions and investments, and preparing for short-term and long-term needs or emergencies.
7.    Environmental Dimension: Understanding how your social, natural, and built environments affect your health and well-being.
8.    Spiritual Dimension: Finding purpose, value, and meaning in your life with or without organized religion.
Marisa and her team believe that if they work together and share the same approach, values, and behavior, they are in the fortunate position to make a difference in every person’s life they treat. It will lead to changes in how people think and behave in their communities, thus also contributing to creating a change in the country to enable people to have a better understanding of themselves as well as other people, be more equipped to handle situations, and make better choices to thrive. As Marisa says “Choice is the one thing that nobody can ever take away from you. We all make thousands of choices each day, both consciously and subconsciously”. Between stimulus and response there is space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom,” according to Viktor E. Frankl.
 
What matters most for Mondia Healthcare is for people to have the opportunity to thrive instead of just surviving day by day. This entails equipping them to manage and take responsibility for their challenges, together with their support system. They offer services to individuals with a variety of diagnoses and stressors which include but are not limited to Bi-polar disorder, depression, anxiety disorder, burnout, trauma or loss, PTSD, substance abuse disorders and addiction.

A lot of therapies focus on getting rid of sadness, anxiety, anger, etc., but that does not produce a happy person, it leaves a person empty. Hence the team is focused on building skills that improve relationships and enhance meaning and engagement in life. This creates the platform for change as the focus is on building enabling circumstances of life that can foster a wellness lifestyle. 

Choosing her Path

A nurturer at heart, Marisa wants the best for everyone – something that has both been her best friend as well as a worst enemy over time. She has always liked to help other people, assisting them in solving problems, dealing with issues, and supporting them. After completing her studies as an Occupational therapist in 2004, Marisa worked in various areas including Namibia to gain experience and figure out which field she wanted to settle in. She returned home from Namibia and started working as a locum at a Mental Health facility.

She presented sessions daily and saw the difference it made in people’s lives to gain a better understanding of who they are, where they fit in, what challenges they face, as well as which strengths they possess. She believes that by utilizing a wellness model, people have the opportunity to learn effective coping skills and take joint responsibility for their healing process, which enables more permanent change and the ability to thrive instead of just survive. In 2013, the facility where she worked was bought by Riël du Toit, who owned various hospitals – physical rehabilitation as well as mental health in the country, and that is where her journey of growth and development took on a new level. 

Marisa has always believed that people should not walk around with a “label” or “diagnosis,” something that happens so often in our society. When people are admitted into a hospital, there is an immediate mindset change for themselves, as well as for the people in their environment due to stigma and a lack of awareness and understanding. “For anyone to believe that they have the potential to thrive, instead of just survive day by day, they need to know and understand WHO they are. They have an IDENTITY, a NAME, ROLES, and RESPONSIBILITIES, they are NOT their diagnosis. They still have to go back and FUNCTION in their environment, it does not matter what race, culture or background they come from – EVERYONE deserves the opportunity to be happy and fulfilled,” she asserts. 

Marisa started her journey to incorporate a Wellness approach into their programs to combat stigma and a lack of awareness and understanding when people are admitted into a hospital. “I believe in coaching and allowing people to get to their own answers, develop and grow to their full potential – this road is much more organic and sustainable than micromanaging or trying to “fix” everything for people. I think this quote from John C. Maxwell probably describes it best “Leadership is not about titles, positions or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another,” she says.

New Role, New Goal

With the formation of Mondia Health in 2021, Marisa was appointed as the COO and started to grow and develop her facility managers at each of the group’s 5 facilities. She decided to appoint people with a clinical background as facility managers, as she believes that people can be taught the financial aspects of a business, but understanding people and having the inclination to connect with people is key to being successful. “Developing our Facility managers, I believe is one of the biggest accomplishments as well as compliments. A team is only as strong as its weakest link, and creating a strong team that is aligned and functional, not only makes my role easier but also enables us to reach and assist more people,” says Marisa.

She has now been appointed as CEO and aims to continue building on some of the key aspects of her role as COO. These include implementing a performance appraisal system for employees based on their values and the GROW model, shaping the culture of the organization, and driving core values to be displayed in employee behavior.

Marisa and her team has started to create an online platform that captures all aspects of the patient journey, streamlining the interdisciplinary team process . This IT platform collects and stores information about the patient journey, from the moment of referral to admission, discharge, and continued care afterward. This will enable a system where the patient is put in the middle to optimize the therapeutic journey. “I want to leverage the use of AI more in the mental health environment for training and development as well as improvement of the patient experience, which is one of our next projects,” she shares.

They also started measuring patients progress with the DASS21 and Flourishing measure from admission to discharge, as well as 2 weeks and 6 weeks post-discharge since 2019. “It is important for me to see if patients gain knowledge and use skills they have learnt AFTER discharge, as that is where change happens. Let’s face it, the majority of patients feel better during admission, as they receive rest, attention, support, medication, etc. BUT what happens when they go back to their environment is where the importance lie.”

The data shows that patients in our programs show progress from admission to discharge, then at 2 weeks, there is a bit of a decline, which is realistic given the fact that they are back in their environments and need to start functioning again. However, at 6 weeks, it shows an improvement again, which indicates that skills are being used and change is happening. This still needs more research, but it is really exciting data.

Facing her Challenges

Apart from the everyday challenges at work, being a young female in a mainly male-dominated world with a lot of passion and “feeling” philosophies instead of facts and numbers, is another challenge that Marisa has to deal with. 

She faces it by focusing on improving her self-awareness and focusing on the bigger vision instead of the perceptions and doubts that often settle in. She also learned to reframe her passion and plans in terminology and action plans that fit the audience to first get their attention in seeing the bigger picture instead of just a lot of “fluffiness”. As Vince Lombardi puts it “Inches make champions”. Small amounts of effort – consistently, lead to big change.

Words of Wisdom

To conclude our interaction, Marisa parts with the following advice for the young entrepreneurs quoting Ullie-kaye. She says:
Consider your Comfort zones –
“In your heart of hearts, you already know. Do not question the still, small voice that is telling you which way to go. You are afraid because things will be different, and feel different, but then again, you are braver now than you were back then and you have learned that strength does not grow from comfort zones. It grows from thorns and high tides and wild wild winds that knock you off your feet.”

A Trailblazing Journey

Vumile holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting Sciences from the University of Pretoria, a Finance Honours degree from the University of Johannesburg, and an MBA from the University of London. Her pursuit of knowledge continues as she studies for a Doctorate in Applied Leadership at UGSM, Switzerland. Her accolades include being named a Woman of Excellence by the Women’s Economic Forum, a Play Your Part Ambassador by Brand South Africa, and one of the 34th Most Influential Young South Africans by Avance Media.

Vumile’s professional journey has been marked by remarkable achievements and impactful leadership. Her professional journey has been diverse and enriching. It began in the corporate banking sector, where she gained invaluable experience and insights into organizational dynamics and leadership. She has successfully led global teams in Africa (including Nigeria, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Lesotho, Ghana, Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa) and Europe (Scotland, Isle of Man, and England). Her expertise spans operations, finance, and strategy, making her a force to be reckoned with in both the telecommunications and finance sectors.

Before establishing Hesed Consulting, Vumile worked with reputable multinational institutions such as Barclays, Investec, Nedbank, First National Bank, and Vodafone. Her contributions ranged from service strategy and operations to risk management and business development.
Vumile’s transition into entrepreneurship and career coaching was motivated by a deeply personal need. As an African woman navigating the corporate world, she found a lack of representation and support that resonated with her experiences. This inspired her to establish Hesed Consulting, driven by a desire to fill the gap she perceived in the industry and provide guidance and empowerment to individuals, particularly women, on their career journeys. “I love being able to hold space and support people in their journey from where they are to where they want to be,” she says.

Vumile’s passion for empowering others extends to her role as an international speaker. She has graced conferences, expos, and workshops worldwide, sharing insights on leadership, women’s empowerment, finance, and conducting business in Africa. Notable platforms include the African Union in Ethiopia, the Women’s Economic Forum in India, and USAID in Zambia. 
Vumile’s voice resonates beyond boardrooms. She hosts The Africa Career Summit and Awards a pan-African platform to celebrate and empower African careers. Additionally, her weekly feature in Nigeria’s largest publication, The Guardian, amplifies her impact.
Empowering Leaders 

Hesed Consulting offers a comprehensive range of services including coaching, executive training, employee wellness, and strategic development. By providing effective, personal, and professional development services, Vumile and her team hope to address Africa’s Human Capital challenges. They hope to support companies and individuals to improve themselves and their businesses.

Hesed Consulting thrives in providing consulting services that assist its clients with effective financial, strategic, and operational business solutions within a global context. What sets Hesed apart in the market is the team’s commitment to leveraging African wisdom and values to empower the clients. They tailor their solutions to address the specific needs and challenges faced by individuals and organizations, ensuring a personalized and impactful approach to coaching and consulting. Their customized solutions and engagement model aim to educate and empower the clients to grow efficiently and optimize their businesses and operations while achieving their strategic goals. 

As the founder and CEO of Hesed Consulting, Vumi’s role involves leading strategic initiatives, cultivating partnerships, and overseeing the delivery of coaching and consulting services. One of the unique ideas she has introduced is the integration of African philosophy and cultural values into Hesed’s approach. By embracing concepts such as Ubuntu and communal wisdom, they offer a fresh perspective on leadership development and organizational culture, resonating with their diverse clientele across the continent. “This why we host events like the Africa Career Summit on 29 June 2024 in Johannesburg,” she says.
Vumi’s working style can be characterized as strategic, empathetic, and collaborative. She believes in setting clear goals and objectives while fostering an environment of open communication and mutual respect. Others often define her communication style as engaging, empowering, and solution-oriented, as she strives to facilitate meaningful dialogue and empower individuals to reach their full potential. 

Facing her Challenges

One of the biggest challenges in Vumi’s career was transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. It required courage, resilience, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. She overcame this challenge by trusting her instincts, seeking support from mentors and peers, and staying committed to her vision despite obstacles. 
This experience taught Vumi the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and the value of taking calculated risks in pursuit of her goals. There was a lot of unlearning and learning that had to happen. It taught her the importance of hard work and keeping service as a priority.

Leveraging Technology

As a modern-day entrepreneur, Vumi recognizes the transformative power of technology in driving organizational growth and efficiency. At Hesed Consulting, her team leverages technology to streamline the company’s coaching processes, reach a wider audience through online platforms, and provide virtual coaching sessions for clients across different geographies. By embracing innovative tools and digital solutions, they enhance their service delivery and ensure a seamless experience for their clients.

Anticipating Industry Changes

In the next five years, Vumi anticipates a growing demand for personalized coaching and leadership development solutions, particularly in the context of remote work and digital transformation. To prepare Hesed Consulting for the same, she plans to invest in innovative coaching methodologies, expand its online presence, and strengthen partnerships with technology providers to enhance service delivery. 
“Additionally, we will continue to stay abreast of industry trends and evolving client needs, ensuring that we remain agile and responsive in an ever-changing landscape,” she says.
However, all the vision can’t be achieved without first winning over challenges. One of the challenges hindering the progress of the industry is the lack of diversity and inclusivity in leadership development programs. To address this, Vumi suggests we need to prioritize diversity and representation in coaching and consulting services, as well as advocate for inclusive leadership practices within organizations. “By fostering a more diverse and inclusive environment, we can unlock the full potential of talent and drive positive change in the industry,” she says.

Eye on the Future

Vumile’s mission extends beyond personal success. She advocates for breaking the “glass cliff” barrier that women face in leadership roles. Her commitment to empowering women and fostering inclusive workplaces is evident in her work and advocacy.
In the next few years, one can expect Vumi and her team to continue pushing the boundaries of conventional coaching and consulting practices, exploring new avenues for growth and impact. They aim to expand their reach, deepen their impact, and remain at the forefront of driving positive change in the career development landscape. 
“With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and client-centricity, we are committed to delivering exceptional results and empowering individuals and organizations to thrive,” concludes Vumi.
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A Quote to Live By:
One quote that resonates deeply with Vumi and guides her approach to both business and life is: “The route can be asked to those who have forged ahead before you.” This proverb speaks to the importance of seeking guidance and learning from others’ experiences, acknowledging that wisdom and knowledge are gained through collaboration and shared insights. It underscores the value of humility, curiosity, and the continuous pursuit of growth and learning.

“I like keeping people at the heart of what I do.”

“I established Hesed intending to be a Pan-African organization that promotes global learning, quality talent acquisition, and personal development.”

“We pride ourselves in exceptional business and individual consulting; public speaking services for various business events as well as trade within the African continent.”

As mentors and role models for students, the teachers support and motivate students to achieve their academic and personal goals while instilling values and ethics in them to develop positive attitudes and behaviors. These are also the precise reasons one should always remember when they choose to become a teacher.

Embarking on the journey of teaching is not merely stepping into a job; it’s embracing a vocation, a profound calling to shape minds, hearts, and futures. As one embarks on this noble path, there are a few timeless principles that serve as the guiding lights that illuminate the essence of this revered profession. Phoebe A. Wasfy, Principal of Philopateer Christian College and an educationist par excellence, shares those principles with us.

First and foremost, she reminds us that teaching is not just a job; it’s a sacred vocation. It’s a calling to make a tangible and lasting difference in the lives of your students. Each day when a teacher steps into the classroom, she/he has the power to ignite curiosity, inspire dreams, and instill values that will resonate throughout the students’ lives. “Embrace this responsibility with humility and reverence, for the impact you make reaches far beyond the confines of the classroom,” she says.

Respect the profession of teaching, for it is the cornerstone upon which all other professions are built. Teachers lay the foundation of knowledge, nurturing the intellect and character of future doctors, engineers, artists, and leaders. Without the dedication and passion of educators, the edifice of society would crumble. So, one should honor their role as a teacher, knowing that they are an architect of the future. “Never diminish the importance of your role by saying, “I’m just a teacher.” You are not just a teacher; you are a beacon of light in a world that often feels dark and uncertain. You are a mentor, a guide, and a source of inspiration for your students,” she says.

Phoebe emphasizes that one must embrace the challenges that come with teaching, for they are the crucibles in which a teacher’s character and resilience are forged. Every obstacle they encounter is an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to refine their craft. They must approach each day with a spirit of optimism and a willingness to adapt, knowing that the journey of teaching is as enriching and transformative for them as it is for their students.

“Above all, never lose sight of the profound impact you have on the lives of your students. Your words, your actions, and your example have the power to shape the course of their lives in ways both seen and unseen. Cherish the moments of connection, celebrate the triumphs, and persevere through the challenges, knowing that the seeds you sow today will blossom into a brighter tomorrow,” she says.

A Passionate Educator

Phoebe A. Wasfy’s professional journey is marked by her role as the Principal of Philopateer Christian College (PCC), a rapidly growing private school in Canada. PCC, a distinguished member of ACSI, has earned the title of “Best Private School” in Mississauga for five consecutive years. Established in 1999, PCC holds the distinction of being the first private school in North America founded by the Coptic Egyptian community, welcoming students from all backgrounds.

Phoebe’s journey began in Alexandria, Egypt, and she immigrated to North America at the age of nine. As an active member of the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) and the Ontario Principals Council (OPC), she has been recognized for her contributions with nominations for the Order of Ontario in 2019 and 2020. Her commitment to community service has also been acknowledged through her induction into The Marquis Who’s Who in America and her receipt of the Vision Builder Women of Inspiration Award in 2021.

Educationally, Phoebe earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and Religious Studies from the University of Toronto in 2002, followed by the completion of her Professional Program in Education at D’Youville College, New York, USA in 2004. She continued her academic pursuits with additional qualifications in areas such as “Reading,” “History,” “Religious Studies,” and “Teaching Kindergarten-Grade 12.” In 2011, she completed her Principal Qualification Courses (PQC) and later obtained a Master of Education (MEd) from the University of Western, Ontario in 2014.

Phoebe’s dedication to learning is evident through her pursuit of a Higher Education Teaching Certificate from Harvard University in 2019 and the completion of the John Maxwell Leadership Certification in August 2023. Currently, she is engaged in a specialized leadership program through the Egyptian National Academy.

Phoebe’s involvement extends beyond PCC; she has served as a board member of ACSI-Eastern Canada since 2017 and is an adjunct faculty for the Youth Ministry Certification Program (YMCP) affiliated with YouthTrain, New Zealand. Her global impact is further highlighted by her participation in the World Youth Forum 2018 in Sharm ElSheikh, Egypt.

Passionate about fostering leadership and professional development, Phoebe heads numerous initiatives, including school youth humanitarian trips globally and fundraising efforts for initiatives like the Egyptian presidential program Decent Life. She also initiated Arabic-accredited courses in support of the Egyptian presidential initiative Etkalem 3araby.

Her dedication and impact in the field of education have been recognized globally, with features in multiple magazines and honors, including an honorarium presented to her by the Egyptian president His Excellency President Abdelfattah Al Sisi at the National Youth Forum in Alexandria, Egypt, and being selected as the top school principal, coach, and speaker of 2024 by the International Association of Top Professionals (IATOP).

A Collaborative Leader

Phoebe’s working style is fundamentally rooted in collaboration and active leadership participation. She firmly believes in the power of teamwork and the necessity of hands-on involvement from a leader to foster a thriving educational environment. For her, it’s not just about overseeing tasks from a distance but immersing herself in the day-to-day workings of the team and the learning experiences of each student.

A cornerstone of Phoebe’s approach is getting to know each student on a personal level. By understanding their unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations, she can tailor her support and guidance to meet their individual needs effectively. This personalized approach not only enhances their learning experiences but also establishes a deeper connection between herself and the students, fostering trust and rapport.

Furthermore, Phoebe emphasizes the importance of involving teachers in the decision-
making process. By including them in discussions, planning, and goal-setting, they can collectively work towards a common vision for the educational institution. This collaborative approach not only fosters a sense of ownership and investment among the teaching staff but also ensures that everyone is aligned and working towards shared goals.

Communicating Effectively

Communication, in Phoebe’s view, extends beyond mere verbal exchanges. While effective verbal communication is undoubtedly crucial, she also recognizes the power of leading by example and demonstrating her commitment to the shared objectives through action. Whether it’s rolling up her sleeves to assist with classroom activities, offering support where needed, or actively engaging in professional development initiatives, her actions speak volumes about her dedication to continuous improvement and student success.

Ultimately, Phoebe’s communication style is characterized by its authenticity, inclusivity, and emphasis on action. She strives to empower those on her team by providing them with the tools, resources, and support they need to make a meaningful impact on the lives of PCC’s students. Through collaborative effort and a shared sense of purpose, Phoebe and the rest teachers work together to create an educational environment where every student thrives and achieves their full potential.

The Institute

Philopateer Christian College (PCC) provides a comprehensive range of educational services catering to students from Pre-JK to Grade 12. One of its standout features is its bilingual program, offering full French and full English curricula from Kindergarten to Grade 8. This unique approach not only ensures linguistic proficiency but also fosters cultural understanding and appreciation from an early age.

Moreover, the Institute distinguishes itself by offering an Extended French program for students in Grades 9-12. This program enables students to deepen their French language skills and cultural immersion beyond the elementary level, preparing them for bilingual proficiency and potentially enhancing their academic and career opportunities.

In addition to its language-focused offerings, the Institute provides Pre-AP and AP (Advanced Placement) programs. These rigorous academic tracks are designed to challenge and prepare students for higher education by offering college-level coursework and the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school.

The Institute further demonstrates its commitment to innovation and accessibility through its full online high school. This virtual learning platform allows students to access quality education remotely, providing flexibility and personalized learning experiences to meet diverse needs and circumstances.

Furthermore, the Institute’s international program within the school opens doors for students to engage with peers from different cultural backgrounds, fostering global citizenship and preparing them for an interconnected world.

Overall, the Institute’s blend of bilingual education, advanced academic programs, online learning opportunities, and international engagement sets it apart in the market, offering a holistic and forward-thinking approach to education that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the 21st century.

Driving Growth

As the principal of Philopateer Christian College (PCC), Phoebe’s role extends beyond mere administrative duties; it encompasses fostering innovation and driving the school’s growth in both local and global contexts. One of her primary objectives is to spearhead the introduction of fresh ideas that not only enhance the educational experience within the institution but also contribute to broader advancements in the field of education.

One such initiative Phoebe has championed is the integration of online learning on a global scale. Recognizing the transformative potential of digital platforms, she has worked to establish PCC as a leader in leveraging technology to expand educational reach beyond traditional boundaries. By tapping into the global stage of online learning, they’re able to offer enriching educational opportunities to students worldwide, transcending geographical limitations and fostering a more interconnected learning community.

Moreover, Phoebe has been instrumental in conceptualizing and strategizing the expansion of the institution through the establishment of multiple campuses in Ontario. This visionary approach not only caters to the growing demand for quality education in the local community but also reflects its commitment to providing accessible and innovative learning environments. By envisioning a network of campuses, they’re able to extend their impact and serve a broader spectrum of students, empowering them to thrive academically and personally. “By introducing initiatives such as global online learning and the expansion of multiple campuses, I aim to position our school as a trailblazer in educational excellence and pave the way for future success on a global scale,” says Phoebe.

Stumbling on Roadblocks

The biggest challenge Phoebe faced in her career occurred during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. While day-to-day challenges are commonplace in leading a private school, the pandemic presented an unprecedented obstacle that demanded innovative solutions and resilience.

When COVID-19 hit, it disrupted every aspect of the school’s operations. They had to navigate uncharted territory, ensuring the continuity of the learning process while prioritizing the safety and well-being of the students, faculty, and staff. Additionally, they needed to provide support to families facing the uncertainties brought on by the pandemic.

One of the primary challenges was transitioning to remote learning effectively. Phoebe and the administrative team had to rapidly adapt the curriculum and teaching methods to an online format, ensuring that students continued to receive quality education despite the physical closure of the school. This required significant coordination, communication, and technological infrastructure development.

Moreover, they faced the challenge of maintaining strong connections with parents during this period of remote learning. It was crucial to keep them informed, address their concerns, and provide support as they navigated this new educational landscape alongside the PCC management.

However, amidst these challenges, Phoebe saw an opportunity to innovate and expand the school’s reach. While many institutions were forced to contract or adapt minimally, PCC seized the chance to showcase its capabilities on a global stage through the online program. By embracing technology and creativity, they were able to offer their educational services to a broader audience, distinguishing themselves as leaders in the field.

To overcome these challenges, Phoebe and her team fostered a culture of adaptability, collaboration, and resilience within the school community. They encouraged open communication and feedback, allowing them to address issues promptly and effectively. They also invested in professional development to equip our faculty with the skills and resources needed for successful remote teaching.

“Ultimately, facing the challenges brought out our collective strength and determination. It reinforced the importance of flexibility, innovation, and community support in overcoming adversity. Through this experience, we learned valuable lessons about the power of perseverance and the growth potential even in the face of unprecedented challenges,” says Phoebe.

Preparing Students for the Future

Philopateer Christian College likely prepares its students to face the dynamic world often dubbed as VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) through a variety of strategies and initiatives. Here are some common approaches that educational institutions may take:

The school emphasizes holistic education, prioritizing not just academic prowess but also fostering emotional intelligence, critical thinking, adaptability, and resilience among its students. Interdisciplinary learning is encouraged to help students understand the connections between various subjects and tackle complex issues. Hands-on experiential learning opportunities enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, honing their problem-solving abilities. Exposure to diverse cultures and global issues fosters empathy and cultural competence, essential for navigating today’s world. Embracing technology in education equips students with skills vital for the digital age. Leadership qualities and collaboration are promoted through group projects and extracurricular activities, preparing students for effective teamwork and leadership roles. Support systems and mentorship programs are in place to help students develop resilience and coping mechanisms. Additionally, a culture of continuous learning encourages students to adapt to change and continuously develop new skills throughout their lives.

By incorporating these strategies and initiatives into its educational approach, Philopateer Christian College can effectively prepare its students to thrive in a VUCA world.

The Evolving Role of Educators

Phoebe concurs that the role of educators and educational institutes has evolved significantly in the digital age. With freely available information on virtually every topic online, educators now face the challenge of not just imparting knowledge but also teaching critical thinking skills, digital literacy, and the ability to discern credible sources from misinformation or biased content.

In this context, the value of educators and educational institutes has arguably increased rather than diminished, she feels. While the information may be readily accessible, the role of educators in guiding students through this vast sea of information, helping them navigate it effectively, and fostering deeper understanding and analytical skills are more crucial than ever.

“Educators serve as mentors, facilitators, and guides in the learning process, providing context, insight, and personalized support that cannot be replicated by simply accessing information online. Moreover, educational institutes play a pivotal role in creating structured learning environments, fostering collaboration, and offering opportunities for hands-on experiences that complement online resources,” she says.

Keeping Up with the Times

Phoebe shares that staying current in the industry and fostering continuous growth involves several strategies:

1. Continuous Learning: Actively seek out opportunities for professional development, whether it’s attending workshops, conferences, or enrolling in courses. Embrace lifelong learning as a mindset.
2. Networking: Engage with other professionals in your field through conferences, seminars, and online communities. Exchange ideas, insights, and best practices to stay informed about industry trends and innovations.
3. Research and Reading: Stay updated on the latest research, publications, and industry news. Subscribe to relevant journals, newsletters, and online publications to broaden your knowledge base.
4. Mentorship and Collaboration: Seek guidance from experienced mentors and collaborate with peers on projects or initiatives. Learning from others’ experiences can provide valuable perspectives and insights.
5. Experimentation and Innovation: Embrace a mind-set of experimentation and be open to trying new approaches or technologies. Encourage creativity and innovation within your practices and encourage others to do the same.
6. Reflection and Evaluation: Regularly reflect on your experiences, successes, and challenges. Evaluate what worked well and what could be improved upon, then adjust your strategies accordingly.
7. Adaptability and Flexibility: Remain adaptable and flexible in the face of change. Embrace new technologies, methodologies, and ways of thinking to stay relevant and competitive in your field.

“By consistently investing in your own growth and staying well-informed about industry developments, you can position yourself as a valuable contributor to both your own advancement and the growth of others within the educational community,” she says.

Understanding the Upcoming Trends

In the next five years, Phoebe observes that the following trends are likely to shape the education industry:

1. Technology Integration:Continued integration of technology in education, including augmented reality, virtual reality, AI-based personalized learning, and adaptive learning platforms.
2. Remote and Hybrid Learning: The pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote and hybrid learning models. These models are likely to continue evolving, offering flexible learning options to students.
3. Focus on Soft Skills: There’s a growing recognition of the importance of soft skills such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and adaptability. Schools may emphasize these skills alongside traditional academic subjects.
4. Personalized Learning: Tailoring education to individual student needs and preferences through data analytics, AI, and adaptive learning technologies will become more prevalent.
5. Project-Based Learning: Project-based learning approaches, which promote hands-on, experiential learning, are gaining traction as they enhance student engagement and problem-solving abilities.

Phoebe also suggests that to prepare the school and students for these trends, several strategies can be adopted:

1. Invest in Technology Infrastructure: Ensure the school has robust IT infrastructure to support technological integration in teaching and learning processes.
2. Teacher Training: Provide professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their digital literacy skills and familiarize them with emerging technologies and teaching methodologies.
3. Curriculum Enhancement: Update the curriculum to incorporate elements of personalized learning, soft skills development, and project-based learning.
4. Flexible Learning Spaces: Design learning environments that facilitate both traditional and technology-enhanced teaching methods, including spaces for collaboration, experimentation, and independent study.
5. Partnerships and Collaboration: Forge partnerships with technology companies, educational institutions, and industry experts to stay updated on the latest trends and access resources for implementing innovative educational practices.
6. Continuous Evaluation and Improvement: Regularly assess the effectiveness of implemented strategies and make adjustments based on feedback from students, teachers, and stakeholders.

“By proactively addressing these trends and preparing students accordingly, the school can ensure they are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving educational landscape,” says Phoebe.

Focus on the Future

As a team, for Phoebe and the teachers at Philopateer Christian College (PCC), the primary focus in the next few years will be to consistently and positively impact the lives of their students within their school. They are committed to providing high-quality education, fostering a supportive learning environment, and helping students develop the skills they need for success.

“While the digital revolution has democratized access to information, it has also highlighted the importance of skilled educators and robust educational institutions in preparing individuals for success in a rapidly changing world.“

Additionally, they aspire to expand their reach beyond the current school boundaries. Their goal is to take PCC’s educational model to other parts of the province, and possibly even on a global scale. By doing so, they aim to make a meaningful difference in the broader landscape of education. This expansion will allow them to share their successful practices, collaborate with diverse communities, and contribute to the enhancement of educational experiences on a larger scale.

Ultimately, their vision is to be catalysts for positive change in education, leaving a lasting impact on students’ lives and contributing to the broader advancement of educational standards locally, provincially, and potentially globally.

“Looking ahead, my aspirations extend beyond provincial borders as I envision Philopateer Christian College becoming a global success story in the realm of education. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and innovation, I am driven to explore opportunities for establishing offshore schools that carry forward our ethos of academic excellence and holistic development on an international scale. By leveraging the lessons learned from our local endeavors, we aspire to create a blueprint for success that transcends borders and inspires educational innovation worldwide,” concludes Phoebe.

Melissa’s Approach: A Global Perspective

Melissa’s multicultural upbringing—having grown up in Hong Kong—equips her with cultural sensitivity and adaptability. She collaborates seamlessly with international clients, understanding their unique needs. As a designated safeguarding lead, Melissa maintains professional confidentiality while fostering open communication.

Her professional journey began with the profound belief that “life influences life.” During her secondary education in Hong Kong, she was immensely inspired by Mrs. Ruth Lau, a history teacher whose passion for education and commitment to student success left an indelible mark on her. This experience sowed the seeds for her lifelong dedication to the field of education.

Surrounded by exceptional educators, Professor Pamela Burnard, Professor Keith Taber, Professor Cecilia Chun, Headteacher Maria Lam, Dr. Irene Lau, Dr Diana Lee, ……. throughout her life, she pursued her first, second, and third degrees in education, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact. The education industry, for her, is not just a career path but a calling to inspire and empower the next generation.    

With a keen interest in child psychology and career development, Melissa specifically focused her research and studies on how students with different family backgrounds, i.e. cultures, adapt to new school environments when joining in-year. She looked at the difficulties they experience and what schools and parents can do to make the transition easier. Once she completed her Masters in Education at Hughes Hall, and friends encouraged her to use her knowledge to guide students. Thus, UK Education Garden blossomed, fueled by word-of-mouth recommendations.

The Roots of UK Education Garden

The story of the UK Education Garden sprouted in 2009 when Melissa embarked on her educational journey at the University of Cambridge, pursuing a master’s degree in education. Her research focused on understanding how students from diverse cultural backgrounds adapt to new school environments when joining mid-year. Inspired by Whitney Houston’s timeless lyrics—“I believe the children are our future; teach them well and let them lead the way”—Melissa envisioned a garden where students could thrive, learn, and blossom.

The inspiration to start the UK Education Garden stemmed from Melissa’s deep-seated desire to create a nurturing environment that transcends traditional educational frameworks. Inspired by Sustainable Development Goal 4.7, which emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, her vision for UK Education Garden is to cultivate SDG 4 for Global Citizens which is a new social enterprise and would like to become a foundation in the future.

Branching Out: Services and Impact

Since its inception in 2017, UK Education Garden (UKEG) has flourished into a comprehensive consultancy. UKEG provides a broad spectrum of services, including basic core skills like literacy and numeracy, curriculum development, inspirational short-term SDG courses, educator training, student mentoring, and educational consultancy, with a strong emphasis on embedding SDG goals into educational practices. Its uniqueness lies in Melissa and her team’s commitment to creating bespoke educational solutions that are both innovative and sustainable, ensuring that they prepare learners not just for today’s challenges but for the future’s uncertainties.

Melissa and her team offer a bouquet of services, including:
Application Assistance: Guiding students through the intricate process of applying to UK schools and universities.
Guardianship: Ensuring students’ safety and well-being while studying abroad.
Tutoring: Providing personalized academic support.
Career Advice and Internships: Nurturing students’ professional growth.
Educational Courses: Cultivating holistic development.

Their vision is to become a leading professional education consultancy providing one-stop studying abroad solutions as well as all-around trusted support services to our students and their families from overseas.

Balancing her Roles

Balancing the roles of founder, mother of 2 young children, and Cambridge University Hospital public governor is indeed challenging but immensely rewarding. Melissa approaches these roles with a mindset of servant leadership, prioritizing the needs of the children, learners, educators, and the wider community. Through effective delegation, strategic planning, and fostering a culture of empowerment, she ensures that each role enriches the others, driving the UK Education Garden and SDG4 for Global Citizen toward our collective vision.

Melissa’s working style is collaborative, visionary, and grounded in the ethos of continuous improvement and innovation. She has introduced several unique initiatives, such as integrating SDG-oriented learning outcomes into the curriculum designs and leveraging technology to create inclusive learning experiences that cater to diverse learner core needs like basic literacy and numeracy for young kids. This approach not only enriches UKEG’s educational offerings but also prepares our learners to be thoughtful, global citizens in the future.

Making Impact Amid Challenges

One of the key challenges facing the industry, per Melissa, is the digital divide, which hinders equitable access to quality SDG education. Potential solutions include investing in digital infrastructure, fostering partnerships to enhance digital literacy, and developing inclusive educational technologies that cater to diverse learning needs.

The most rewarding aspect of working as an education consultant, per Melissa, is witnessing the transformative impact of her work on individuals and communities. The challenges, however, stem from navigating the complex and ever-evolving educational landscape. “By embracing these challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation, we continue to advance our mission,” she says.

The impact of UKEG’s education recommendations is measured through a multifaceted approach, incorporating qualitative feedback, quantitative outcomes, and the achievement of specific SDG-oriented goals. This holistic evaluation framework enables us to continuously refine our strategies and maximize our positive impact on learners and communities. “Here in Cambridge, we are also fundraising for the new Children’s hospital which is providing a holistic treatment for children and teenagers. The medical research is going to have a bit of impact globally as well,” shares Melissa.

Technology also plays a pivotal role in amplifying their impact. UKEG leverages digital platforms to facilitate accessible, engaging, and personalized learning experiences. From virtual classrooms to AI-driven educational tools, UKEG’s embrace of technology ensures that it remains at the forefront of educational innovation.

Ensuring Quality amid Market Volatilities

The UK education market is dynamic, with shifting demands and expectations. UK Education Garden stays ahead by being adaptable, proactive, and responsive to these changes. Through continuous research, stakeholder engagement, and innovation, Melissa and her team ensure that their services remain relevant, impactful, and aligned with the needs of their sustainable community.

They maintain the highest standards of quality and professionalism by adopting a rigorous selection and training process for their team, implementing robust quality assurance mechanisms, and fostering a culture of excellence and continuous learning. “Our commitment to these principles is unwavering, ensuring that we deliver exceptional value to our stakeholders,” says Melissa.

Words of Wisdom

For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Melissa’s advice is to be passionate, resilient, and driven by a purpose beyond success. “Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, remain committed to your vision, and always strive to make a positive impact on our local community and our dear world,” she says.

Future Goals and Projects

Looking ahead, Melissa is focusing on expanding UKEG’s digital learning platforms to reach underserved communities, developing SDG-aligned curriculum resources, and fostering global partnerships to promote education for sustainable development. These initiatives are designed to not only advance UKEG’s mission but also contribute significantly to the achievement of global education targets. 
“UK Education Garden has expanded to cover many areas of education consultancy including assistance in applications to UK schools and universities, guardianship, tutoring, careers advice with internship services and educational courses – a one-stop all-around education support service to international students. Our five-year plan is to continue maintaining and improving our professional services to the highest standards, as well as branching into new regions including Malaysia, Kazakhstan, France, Germany, and Switzerland,” concludes Melissa.