I was born in Pakistan and belong to Karachi, one of the largest metropolitan cities in the Sub-Continent. My early schooling was done in the Middle East and partly in London, UK. I was awarded a gold medal for my BSc degree in Textiles at the University of Karachi in Pakistan after which I attained my Masters in Art Education from Boston University, USA. In addition to these, I have also completed various courses in my field of art including Ceramics (IVS) and Abstraction in Art (VCU).
I have had the opportunity to teach Visual Arts at some of the leading schools of Dubai. My GCSE students have been successful in attaining outstanding results in my subject owing to a mix of my experience in the field and in teaching. My entire pedagogical position is based firmly around the needs of the student. We need to be in tune with the most effective ways people learn. I align myself with the theorist Carl Rogers, an influential American psychologist who suggests that learning is about personal change and growth, and the best learning comes from doing. He also suggested the need for freedom and choice in learning as it engages students’ own interests, and connects with their world. This type of teaching is concerned with students’ needs and desires, their personal values, self-perceptions and motivations. And all of this is only possible when the student is supported in a friendly, non-judgmental environment where he/she feels comfortable and understood and one that I have maintained in my classes over the years and endeavor to at NAS as well.
My passion for my subject doesn’t end at teaching and extends to my personal life. I am a practicing artist and have been exhibiting both locally as well as internationally. In recognition of my work in the field of art I was recently awarded the “Emirates Woman of the Year” award in the UAE. I am also on the panel of curators for one of the biggest art fairs in the Middle East, World Art Dubai. My art activities have also allowed me to gain experience in teaching and conducting workshops for people of all ages and abilities. I have worked closely with people and children of determination giving me many beautiful insights from the experience and enhancing my teaching practices further.
I have a firm belief that nothing is “impossible” and I believe this for my students as well. Being an artist and art educator, I have been lucky enough to experience how each individual is capable of achieving so much more when provided the proper tools and encouragement. I also believe that safe and secure relationships help foster knowledge and I look forward to providing that for my students at NAS Dubai.