I was born and raised in Georgia to my proudly Pakistani parents. Until I was 8, I lived in a house with 14 of my family members! Even as a kid, I was the resident teacher in house to all of my younger cousins. Informal learning was in my blood!

I graduated from The University of Georgia in 2019 with both my Bachelors and Masters in Early Childhood Education! While at UGA, I explored the importance of play in early childhood, issues of educational equity, and sociology. I was so excited to jump into my own classroom.

I stayed in Athens, GA after graduating and taught 4th grade to some amazing students for two years. They taught me a lot, and unfortunately teaching during the pandemic did too. I was ready for a change.

I moved to Chicago, my dad’s favorite place in the world, because I was ready for something new! I taught 5th grade here for two years and had a blast. Though I felt like I was finally home, I was also starting to imagine life as an educator beyond the classroom.

Something I’ve dreamed of as a kid - and I made it happen! I attended the Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Learning Design, Innovation and Technology masters program. During my program, I explored arts education, play, and creativity.

I landed an awesome internship at the Boston Children’s Museum where I worked in the Art Lab. I helped audit existing materials, and came up with new ideas to engage members! I additionally planned art workshops both here and at the Harvard Art Museum!

After graduating, I moved to Greece for two years and taught at an American international school in Athens! It was an amazing experience and I gained a boatload of cultural knowledge. I also took over the school yearbook and led a Graphic Design Club for 4th and 5th graders.

I’m so happy to be back home. Having the opportunity to be more intentional about my career transition is something I don’t take for granted. My passion for education, equity, and nurturing creativity for learners in all kinds of spaces is stronger than ever, and I would love to work with you to make that happen!