Q: Can you tell me a bit about your background and what led you to become a teacher?
A: I’ve always been fascinated by languages - how they shape who we are, interpret new cultures, and allow us to connect in meaningful ways. Over time, I naturally found myself in roles where I could guide, support, and encourage language teachers. Teaching didn’t feel like a career I chose; it felt like something I grew into a space where my love for communication, cultural exchange, and human growth all came together. I hold a bachelor’s degree in teaching and a doctorate in philosophy, both of which deepened my appreciation for thoughtful, reflective learning. Ultimately, TESOL became the perfect path to turn my passion for languages and education into meaningful, fulfilling work.
Q: Was there a particular moment or person that inspired you to pursue teaching?
A: There wasn’t one single moment—my inspiration has grown from many small but powerful experiences. Some of the most meaningful are when former students reach out years later to share their achievements, ask for advice, or simply reconnect. Those moments remind me that teaching reaches far beyond the classroom. Knowing that our time together continues to matter to them has always been a source of motivation and industry connections.
Q: What were you doing before you started teaching, and how did that shape your approach in the classroom?
A: My work has always been closely tied to teacher education through leadership roles, industry projects, and mentoring teachers-in-training. These experiences grounded me in the importance of reflection, collaboration, and professional integrity. They helped me understand the complexity of language teaching and strengthened my belief that a classroom should feel safe, inclusive, and genuinely collaborative. That background influences everything I do, from designing lessons to supporting learners and building a sense of community.
Teaching Philosophy & Passion
Q: What do you love most about teaching at Kangan Institute?
A: The diversity of our students is what I love most—each person brings their own culture, story, and perspective into the room. It creates a vibrant environment where we’re constantly learning from one another. Kangan Institute has such a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and watching students support and celebrate each other reminds me just how powerful community can be. I’m also incredibly fortunate to work with terrific colleagues who care deeply about their students. Their dedication and creativity inspire me every day. Together, it feels like we’re part of a learning community that is always evolving and striving to make a meaningful difference.
Q: How do you connect with students and help them feel confident in their learning?
A: I make it a priority to understand each student—their goals, strengths, uncertainties, and preferred ways of learning. I want them to see mistakes not as failures but as essential steps in the process. By creating a collaborative space where students learn from one another, they realise they’re not navigating the language alone.
Q: What’s one thing you always try to bring into your lessons or interactions?
A: A strong sense of collaboration. I want students to feel like active partners in their learning, not just participants. I also try to bring enthusiasm and authenticity into every class—showing that language isn’t just something to study, but something to use, experience, and enjoy. At its best, language learning is social, creative, and beautifully human.
Advice & Impact
Q: What advice would you give to students who are just starting out or unsure about their path?
A: Start with what you have and trust the process. Progress—especially in language learning—is rarely linear. Be patient, stay curious, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek support. Growth often comes from small, consistent steps – or even failures -and from embracing collaboration. When you allow yourself to learn alongside others, the journey becomes far more empowering.
Q: Can you share a memorable moment with a student that stayed with you?
A: There are many, but the ones that stay with me most are when former students reconnect years later to share their personal or professional milestones. Knowing they still feel comfortable reaching out, eager to share their journeys or seek guidance, reminds me that the relationships we build in the classroom can truly last.
Q: How do you hope students feel when they leave your class or graduate from BKI?
A: I hope they leave feeling empowered—confident not just in their language skills, but in their identities as learners and communicators. I want them to feel they were part of a supportive, inclusive community, and that the skills and connections they built here continue to serve them in their studies, careers, and lives.
Reflection & Motivation
Q: What keeps you motivated and inspired as an educator, especially during challenging times?
A: My students are always my greatest source of motivation. Their resilience, curiosity, and determination inspire me every day. Even on tough days, hearing their stories, watching them support each other, or witnessing a moment of quiet persistence reminds me why I chose this path. Teaching the Certificate IV in TESOL is also deeply fulfilling. It’s a uniquely Australian vocational qualification that equips learners with practical teaching skills and helps them build lifelong professional networks. Being part of that journey keeps me grounded, inspired, and committed to what I do.
Find out more: Certificate IV in English Language Teaching (11021NAT)