The British Council has profoundly shaped Rolla Khaddage's life, instilling in her a growth mindset and a newfound confidence. She describes the impact as transformative, enabling her to assess challenges differently and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Through her experiences, Rolla discovered her true potential and the importance of pursuing opportunities that come her way.
Rolla's journey with the British Council began in 2010 when she participated in the Connecting Classrooms programme. As the English Coordinator at her school, she was nominated to attend workshops aimed at fostering partnerships with schools in the UK. When issues arose with the cluster coordinator, Rolla stepped up to lead, marking a significant turning point in her involvement with the British Council.
Over the years, Rolla has been actively engaged in various programmes, including Connecting Classrooms 1 through 4 and the current Schools Connect programme. Her commitment to education led her to become a teacher trainer, where she co-trained with UK experts and eventually became a master trainer and validated over 150 trainers across the MENA region. Her participation in international conferences, such as the Leading Learning for the 21st Century conference in Beijing, further solidified her role as an educational leader.
Rolla's dedication to mental health and wellbeing became evident during the pandemic when she initiated the Shining Within movement, providing virtual workshops to support teachers and students in the MENA region.
Overall, her work has reached over 1,500 teachers and 500 leaders, showcasing her commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment.
Looking to the future, Rolla plans to continue her passion for education as a consultant and empowerment coach. With a focus on gender equality and women's empowerment, she aims to help others realize their potential and build their confidence. Her journey exemplifies the British Council's role in personal and professional development, demonstrating how education can transform lives.