Early in my career, over twenty years ago now, I worked overseas as a nanny. It was here that I first started hearing the whispers of Montessori philosophy, and I was intrigued. Nannying for numerous families of different nationalities and religions was a heartwarming experience and one that I look back on fondly. Even today, I am still in touch with one of my early families, whose then-six-month-old baby is now twenty! Yikes; time flies.

Travelling and working overseas in various settings was a transformative journey that taught me grit, introspection and the profound importance of creating environments where individuals are empowered to grow freely and with dignity.

Over the years, I have carried those lessons with me.

Throughout my journey—both in life and in my career—I’ve embraced the importance of healing, self-awareness, growth and maturation. I’ve done much inner work and self-analysis, reclaiming wholeness after untangling the roots of a parental absence that shaped my earliest attachments, and EMDR therapy. This therapy, in particular, changed my life and helped me develop greater emotional intelligence and peace.

The metamorphosis, catharsis, and profound transformation that occurred after the birth of my child brought to light so much beauty, wisdom, and inner turmoil that ultimately deepened the meaning and purpose of my life. The ability to support others with empathy and understanding comes through us and our shared experiences, positive and negative.

The art of being human.

..And so, in conclusion!

Child-led, Montessori education resonates deeply with me because it honours the innate dignity of every individual, especially the child, trusting that each person, when given the space, respect, and tools, is capable of discovering their own path. For me, this isn’t just a philosophy of learning — it’s a statement about human worth.