Crystal C. Goodwin is a school leader and educator with 24 years of experience, currently serving as Vice Principal. She is deeply committed to fostering a strong school community that includes teachers, students, parents, and stakeholders, recognizing its importance in supporting student success. She is known for being approachable and responsive, ensuring students feel heard and valued. Teachers appreciate her respect for their expertise and her ability to leverage their strengths to empower leadership within and beyond the classroom. 

She leads by the philosophy, “Build a team so strong no one can point out the leader,” and values her role in coaching and mentoring both teachers and students.

Eli Ghazel has dedicated his career to innovation from the very beginning, striving to improve existing norms and systems. His numerous accomplishments in this field reflect his unwavering dedication. In his capacity as an author and editor of textbooks covering subjects such as English as a second language, Science, and Health, he collaborates with publishers and Ministries of Education. Eli has designed curricula and worked with numerous educators for Ministries of Education in the Middle East and Gulf. A lifelong learner himself, Eli Ghazel is committed to inspiring high-quality learning to enrich the future of students.

Dr. Joseph Youngblood II is Chancellor of Kean University’s Global and Regional Campuses and a senior executive leader overseeing transformational learning, online education, workforce development, and strategic global partnerships. With more than 25 years of experience in higher education leadership, public affairs, innovation, and international programs, he has led major initiatives in global education expansion, digital learning, and institutional transformation. Dr. Youngblood is recognized internationally for his work in advancing innovative learning models, professional education, and strategic academic partnerships across the United States, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Dr. Michael Salvatore serves as Executive Vice President for Academic and Administrative Operations at Kean University, where he leads strategic initiatives focused on institutional effectiveness, student success, innovation, and data-driven educational transformation. A former teacher, principal, district administrator, and award-winning superintendent, he brings more than two decades of leadership experience in education. Dr. Salvatore is widely recognized for advancing equitable learning systems, educational leadership, and operational innovation in higher education and K–12 education environments.

Dr. Sancha K. Gray is a distinguished educator, scholar, and executive leader with more than 25 years of experience across the American K–12 education system and higher education. She currently serves as Senior Vice President for Entrepreneurial Education Initiatives and Acting Dean of the College of Education at both Kean University and Wenzhou-Kean University in China. Her leadership has focused on educational equity, school transformation, literacy advancement, educator preparation, and innovation in teacher development. Dr. Gray is also an internationally recognized speaker and author specializing in educational resilience, crisis leadership, and the future of learning. 

Eli Ghazel has dedicated his career to innovation from the very beginning, striving to improve existing norms and systems. His numerous accomplishments in this field reflect his unwavering dedication. In his capacity as an author and editor of textbooks covering subjects such as English as a second language, Science, and Health, he collaborates with publishers and Ministries of Education. Eli has designed curricula and worked with numerous educators for Ministries of Education in the Middle East and Gulf. A lifelong learner himself, Eli Ghazel is committed to inspiring high-quality learning to enrich the future of students.

Crystal C. Goodwin is a school leader and educator with 24 years of experience, currently serving as Vice Principal. She is deeply committed to fostering a strong school community that includes teachers, students, parents, and stakeholders, recognizing its importance in supporting student success. She is known for being approachable and responsive, ensuring students feel heard and valued. Teachers appreciate her respect for their expertise and her ability to leverage their strengths to empower leadership within and beyond the classroom. 

She leads by the philosophy, “Build a team so strong no one can point out the leader,” and values her role in coaching and mentoring both teachers and students.

Sajdah began her work in the nonprofit sector, partnering with companies and governments in developing countries to strengthen educational infrastructure and support community growth. She holds an M.Ed. in Special Education and is pursuing doctoral studies in International Education and Globalization. With over 25 years of experience, her work spans Special Education, Curriculum Design, Workforce Training, Business Development, DEI, UDI, SDI, EdTech, Adult Learning, and Higher Education. Her mission has evolved from building schools to helping organizations build stronger, more connected teams. Through strategic consulting, training, and systems design, she supports leaders and organizations in becoming more effective, inclusive, and human-centered while transforming potential into performance.

Jessica Fetsko is Head of English at Al Ghad Charter School in Abu Dhabi, where she leads curriculum development, instructional quality, and teacher coaching across Grades 8–12. With over a decade of international teaching and leadership experience, she specializes in literacy, data-driven instruction, and AI-integrated pedagogy. She is a two-time TESOL Conference presenter in the UAE and has facilitated at the Common Core Boot Camp, delivering sessions on AI-powered feedback, lesson planning, and instructional design. 

She is passionate about supporting educators in designing engaging, high-impact lessons that drive deeper, more meaningful student achievement.

Engy is an international education consultant with over 17 years of experience in teaching and leadership roles in international schools. She has served as a homeroom teacher, PYP coordinator, and deputy head of primary. An IBEN member (Programme, Evaluation, and Workshop Leader), NEASC Lead Visitor, and certified Concept-Based Curriculum Trainer, Engy has led teams through authorizations and accreditations. She has designed and facilitated workshops for 1000+ educators, focusing on leadership, student agency and well-being. Engy holds a Master’s in Education and she is also a certified Happiness Coach.

Rosvinder Kaur is a Singapore-based education consultant and curriculum leader with over 15 years of experience across Singapore’s Ministry of Education and the private education sector. She has held key roles including Senior Curriculum Planning Officer, Senior MOE Coach, Year Head, and Head of Department (English), supporting over 1,200 students and coaching educators across dozens of schools. Her work spans curriculum design, instructional leadership, assessment practice, and future-ready learning, including AI and digital integration.

 She is a published research contributor, an Inspiring Teachers of English Award recipient, and a career development panelist for the Singapore Young Sikh Association.

Mr. Feruz Akbarov is an award-winning, globally recognized ELT professional from Central Asia with over 16 years of teaching experience. He holds an MA in English from the University of Pune, India, and has received multiple prestigious awards both domestically and internationally, including being named “The Best TESOL Teacher of the Year 2014” in China. He is the founder of ETA Uzbekistan, an internationally recognized English Teachers’ Network. 

He has presented extensively on global platforms for international organizations across the USA, Mexico, Panama, Azerbaijan, Nigeria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Tajikistan, Nepal, Türkiye, China, and Uzbekistan. His book, The Art of Teaching: Let Your Teaching Voice Be Heard, was published in the USA in May 2025 and is available on Amazon.

Joseph Gouda is a mechanical engineer, educator, and entrepreneur with extensive experience in STEM education, curriculum development, and educational leadership. He is the CEO of SETA Education and Flexonomics, leading initiatives in artificial intelligence, robotics, programming, entrepreneurship, and school development solutions across Egypt. He has designed and implemented curricula aligned with international accreditation standards, including Cognia and MSA, and developed professional development programs that support academic excellence and sustainable school growth. His leadership experience includes roles as Math Teacher, ICT Coordinator, and Assistant Head of Department in international schools. Passionate about innovation and technology integration, he is committed to empowering students and educators through future-focused learning experiences.

Rajaa Laghrissi is an experienced English Language teacher and Freelance Instructional Coach with over 20 years of teaching experience, including 12 years in American-curriculum schools. She specializes in adaptive teaching, assessment for learning, and integrating AI to enhance student engagement and critical thinking. As a teacher trainer and workshop facilitator, she supports educators in designing student-centered lessons aligned with Common Core Standards. 

She is currently pursuing a PhD in Applied Linguistics and is passionate about empowering both students and teachers through reflective and innovative practices.

Joy Buckner is an educational consultant, keynote speaker, and global neurodiversity advocate with over 25 years of experience transforming how people teach, learn, and lead. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English–Early Childhood Education and a Master of Interdisciplinary Studies in Curriculum and Instruction. Her work spans more than 25 countries, where she partners with schools, ministries, and organizations to design inclusive learning environments. Informed by lived experience, she champions identity, belonging, and support. She is the founder of Buckner Education and host of The Joy of Neurodiversity podcast, inspiring educators and leaders to embrace diverse minds.

Joshua Quinn is an educator and mental/behavioral health professional based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with over 10 years of experience in education and more than 16 years working with children and adolescents. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and History, a Master of Education, and a Master of Science in Psychology. He is the founder of BARS Institute, an education, behavioral intervention, empowerment, and exploratory learning program for teenage boys in the USA and UAE. Through this work, he applies behavioral, positive, and military psychology to support boys’ behavioral and intellectual development. He is currently launching the STARS Institute for teenage girls at North American International School in Dubai.

Debra Alexander is a trainer and organizational development consultant with over 20 years of experience, as well as an HR advisor and leadership coach. She works with educational institutions and mission-driven nonprofit organizations, focusing on building high-performing organizations and fostering cultures where people thrive. She supports clients in recognizing, protecting, and leveraging key relationships for success. She completed undergraduate studies at Hampton University and holds an MS in Human Resources Development from American University, along with a postgraduate certification from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland. She also completed doctoral studies at Teachers College, Columbia University and the University of St. Thomas.

Dr. Joseph Francom is a Professor and Chair of Computing with over 25 years of experience in higher education. At Utah Tech University, he leads computing programs and supports faculty development, focusing on practical, student-centered learning and industry-relevant skills. His work emphasizes aligning academic programs with real-world demands to better prepare students for evolving technology careers. He is committed to fostering effective teaching practices and strengthening faculty capacity to deliver engaging, applied learning experiences. Through his leadership, he contributes to building programs that equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s dynamic and rapidly changing digital landscape.

Dr. Leslie Palson is a Canadian educational leader with nearly 30 years of international experience across academic partnerships, program development, strategic planning, and student engagement. She holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of British Columbia and a PhD in Education and Social Justice from the University of Lancaster. Her research focuses on youth empowerment for social impact and dialogue as reflective practice. As Dean of International Education, Partnerships, and Strategy at Georgian College, she leads initiatives that strengthen global collaboration, enhance student success, and advance socially innovative, community-focused education while fostering global citizenship and inclusive learning environments.

Faith Visentin is an educator and digital learning specialist focused on accessible, student-centred teaching. Her work spans education, technology, and academic leadership, supporting students and faculty in navigating evolving learning environments. As a Digital Learning and LMS Technologist at Georgian College, she delivers training in online pedagogy, accessibility, and emerging technologies, including AI in education. She creates practical resources and workshops that help educators engage with technology meaningfully. Since 2018, she has taught in post-secondary settings, fostering inclusive and collaborative classrooms. She is passionate about helping educators explore AI and apply practical strategies in real-world teaching contexts.

Debra Alexander is a trainer and organizational development consultant with over 20 years of experience, as well as an HR advisor and leadership coach. She works with educational institutions and mission-driven nonprofit organizations, focusing on building high-performing organizations and fostering cultures where people thrive. She supports clients in recognizing, protecting, and leveraging key relationships for success. She completed undergraduate studies at Hampton University and holds an MS in Human Resources Development from American University, along with a postgraduate certification from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland. She also completed doctoral studies at Teachers College, Columbia University and the University of St. Thomas.

Mr. Momoh Kamara is an APMG-certified Global Change Specialist and ICF-trained Leadership Coach with over 12 years of international experience supporting organizations through complex change. He has worked across EMEA, North America, and Africa, and has lived and studied in APAC. His expertise spans leadership development and human capital transformation across education, consulting, technology, and hospitality. He designs and facilitates experiential leadership programs grounded in adult learning principles, integrating practical frameworks with coaching-led reflection. 

His work focuses on change management, cultural alignment, and leadership effectiveness, enabling leaders to strengthen engagement, navigate resistance, and drive sustainable performance."

Mrs. Agatha Schmidt Dos Santos is a passionate, pace-setting leader with over 20 years of experience in education across Europe and the Middle East. She specializes in curriculum development, inclusion, and building strong organizational culture. She strongly believes in a “connection before curriculum” approach, prioritizing relationships as the foundation for effective learning. Her work emphasizes creating inclusive environments that support both student and staff growth. She is an advocate for sustainable development and human kindness, bringing a values-driven perspective to leadership. Through her experience, she continues to support educational communities in fostering meaningful, connected, and growth-oriented learning environments.

Joseph Gouda is a mechanical engineer, educator, and entrepreneur with extensive experience in STEM education, curriculum development, and educational leadership. He is the CEO of SETA Education and Flexonomics, leading initiatives in artificial intelligence, robotics, programming, entrepreneurship, and school development solutions across Egypt. He has designed and implemented curricula aligned with international accreditation standards, including Cognia and MSA, and developed professional development programs that support academic excellence and sustainable school growth. His leadership experience includes roles as Math Teacher, ICT Coordinator, and Assistant Head of Department in international schools. Passionate about innovation and technology integration, he is committed to empowering students and educators through future-focused learning experiences.

Katia Izmerli-Reed is an educator with over a decade of learner-focused teaching experience spanning language education, family engagement, and educational technology leadership. As Head of ESL and Family Liaison at North American International School, she supports multilingual families and has contributed to increased Chinese and Russian student enrolment. Her Mandarin classes integrate cultural immersion and project-based learning, while her AI literacy courses support students and staff in using emerging technologies responsibly. Recognized as a UAE AI Changemaker and member of the Dubai AI Think Tank, she leads initiatives that strengthen partnerships, support colleagues, and promote inclusive, standards-aligned learning environments.

Jessica Fetsko is Head of English at Al Ghad Charter School in Abu Dhabi, where she leads curriculum development, instructional quality, and teacher coaching across Grades 8–12. With over a decade of international teaching and leadership experience, she specializes in literacy, data-driven instruction, and AI-integrated pedagogy. She is a two-time TESOL Conference presenter in the UAE and has facilitated at the Common Core Boot Camp, delivering sessions on AI-powered feedback, lesson planning, and instructional design. 

She is passionate about supporting educators in designing engaging, high-impact lessons that drive deeper, more meaningful student achievement.

Mr. Feruz Akbarov is an award-winning, globally recognized ELT professional from Central Asia with over 16 years of teaching experience. He holds an MA in English from the University of Pune, India, and has received multiple prestigious awards both domestically and internationally, including being named “The Best TESOL Teacher of the Year 2014” in China. He is the founder of ETA Uzbekistan, an internationally recognized English Teachers’ Network. 

He has presented extensively on global platforms for international organizations across the USA, Mexico, Panama, Azerbaijan, Nigeria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Tajikistan, Nepal, Türkiye, China, and Uzbekistan. His book, The Art of Teaching: Let Your Teaching Voice Be Heard, was published in the USA in May 2025 and is available on Amazon.

Rajaa Laghrissi is an experienced English Language teacher and Freelance Instructional Coach with over 20 years of teaching experience, including 12 years in American-curriculum schools. She specializes in adaptive teaching, assessment for learning, and integrating AI to enhance student engagement and critical thinking. As a teacher trainer and workshop facilitator, she supports educators in designing student-centered lessons aligned with Common Core Standards. 

She is currently pursuing a PhD in Applied Linguistics and is passionate about empowering both students and teachers through reflective and innovative practices.

Joshua Quinn is an educator and mental/behavioral health professional based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with over 10 years of experience in education and more than 16 years working with children and adolescents. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and History, a Master of Education, and a Master of Science in Psychology. He is the founder of BARS Institute, an education, behavioral intervention, empowerment, and exploratory learning program for teenage boys in the USA and UAE. Through this work, he applies behavioral, positive, and military psychology to support boys’ behavioral and intellectual development. He is currently launching the STARS Institute for teenage girls at North American International School in Dubai.

Sajdah began her work in the nonprofit sector, partnering with companies and governments in developing countries to strengthen educational infrastructure and support community growth. She holds an M.Ed. in Special Education and is pursuing doctoral studies in International Education and Globalization. With over 25 years of experience, her work spans Special Education, Curriculum Design, Workforce Training, Business Development, DEI, UDI, SDI, EdTech, Adult Learning, and Higher Education. Her mission has evolved from building schools to helping organizations build stronger, more connected teams. Through strategic consulting, training, and systems design, she supports leaders and organizations in becoming more effective, inclusive, and human-centered while transforming potential into performance.

Crystal C. Goodwin is a school leader and educator with 24 years of experience, currently serving as Vice Principal. She is deeply committed to fostering a strong school community that includes teachers, students, parents, and stakeholders, recognizing its importance in supporting student success. She is known for being approachable and responsive, ensuring students feel heard and valued. Teachers appreciate her respect for their expertise and her ability to leverage their strengths to empower leadership within and beyond the classroom. 

She leads by the philosophy, “Build a team so strong no one can point out the leader,” and values her role in coaching and mentoring both teachers and students.

Debra Alexander is a trainer and organizational development consultant with over 20 years of experience, as well as an HR advisor and leadership coach. She works with educational institutions and mission-driven nonprofit organizations, focusing on building high-performing organizations and fostering cultures where people thrive. She supports clients in recognizing, protecting, and leveraging key relationships for success. She completed undergraduate studies at Hampton University and holds an MS in Human Resources Development from American University, along with a postgraduate certification from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland. She also completed doctoral studies at Teachers College, Columbia University and the University of St. Thomas.