The Fort Issue 12 June 2022 | Page 11

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FEATURE

Faldy Elkhalaway

I was born and raised in Cairo, Egypt and studied Business Administration through the University of District of Columbia. However, I found myself at odds with the corporate world and did not want to be trapped behind a desk, trying to advance my career through a series of tedious tasks. I wanted to become a part of something meaningful in order to have a positive impact on the world and the lives of others. This led to the start of my career as an educator in 2012, teaching first grade. I fell in love with the students and the profession, and turned my efforts towards obtaining teaching credentials from the United States and the United Kingdom. I am passionate about learning more about the world and interacting with diverse cultures. As a result, I set my goal to become an international business and economics teacher. In 2018, I was offered this opportunity at a school in Valledupar, Colombia. I have since spearheaded an AP Economics program in Santa Marta, Colombia. My journey has now brought me to the school environment that I have longed to become a part of, one where diversity is appreciated and education is highly valued. I am beyond excited to join the Verdala community and am hopeful to make meaningful contributions that can be seen and felt throughout the school. In my leisure time I enjoy practicing yoga and Crossfit, and dancing salsa, as well as many outdoor activities. I also enjoy delving into modern and classical texts on society, ideology and, of course, economics.

jumping, kiteboarding, scuba diving, and snowboarding, but also very much enjoy more relaxed activities like walking, writing, reading, role-playing games, music, and exploring. I play the ukulele and banjolele, barely and badly. I am very excited to join the VIS community!

career as an educator in 2012, teaching first grade. I fell in love with the students and the profession, and turned my efforts towards obtaining teaching credentials from the United States and the United Kingdom. I am passionate about learning more about the world and interacting with diverse cultures. As a result, I set my goal to become an international business and economics teacher. In 2018, I was offered this opportunity at a school in Valledupar, Colombia. I have since spearheaded an AP Economics program in Santa Marta, Colombia. My journey has now brought me to the school environment that I have longed to become a part of, one where diversity is appreciated and education is highly valued. I am beyond excited to join the Verdala community and am hopeful to make meaningful contributions that can be seen and felt throughout the school. In my leisure time I enjoy practicing yoga and Crossfit, and dancing salsa, as well as many outdoor activities. I also enjoy delving into modern and classical texts on society, ideology and, of course, economics.

Sofia Melo Lopez

Next year I will be teaching Spanish and French at VIS. I am originally from Portugal. I have lived in India and in the UK, where I have spent the most part of the last ten years. I enjoy reading literature and watching films or documentaries, as well as baking and cooking. For me, teaching and learning languages is fascinating as I love exploring the similarities and differences between them. I am excited to move to Malta and to get to know more about its history and culture. I look forward to meeting everyone soon!