Why I Chose the World As My Classroom

Got Matar Training Institute, Siaya, Kenya

This photo was taken in Kenya. A moment that was never supposed to happen; and yet, somehow, it was always meant to.

The year before, I was supposed to go to Uganda. Everything was lined up, and I thought I was ready. But the universe had other plans. Things fell apart before they even began, and I found myself suspended in uncertainty; questioning everything about my path, my purpose, and where I was headed. I didn’t grow up knowing I wanted to teach. I wasn’t the one with a five-year plan or a dream classroom in mind. I was in between minds for a long time, trying to find the thing that fit.

Then came Kenya.

I ended up in a rural village, surrounded by kids who didn’t just come to class, they showed up with curiosity, resilience, and an eagerness that reminded me why learning matters. The classrooms didn’t have much, literally, just a few tables and a black board - but they were full of heart, love, desire and happiness. And in that space, I began to understand the true value of education; not as a checklist of outcomes, but as access, freedom, and potential.

I remembered something from my childhood: being gifted a dictionary by an uncle at my church. He handed it to me, and in true Bajan fashion said, “Not a soul in this world can ever take your education away from you.” That moment came rushing back to me in Kenya. I felt it in my chest. I finally understood. Education breaks barriers.

It wasn’t easy. Life in the village was a challenge. Bathing outdoors, the electricity going in and out, COCKROACHES. It was humbling and eye-opening in ways I still can’t fully explain. It taught me so much about myself and the world around me. It was also the beginning of something real. I left Kenya with a vision; not one that was polished or perfect, but one that felt deeply rooted. I knew I needed to be a part of change. I didn’t have all the answers, but I had a direction. A feeling. A call.

Oh, there is so much to tell - perhaps that will come in a later post …

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Have I made it yet? No, I don’t think so. But every day, I take one step closer to the version of myself I’m meant to become. The teacher I’m still becoming. The woman I’m still growing into. And this platform, this brand, this community is part of that journey.

The Expat Educator is my offering to those who feel called to do things differently. To teach, live, and move through the world with intention. To build a life abroad that doesn’t just look good, but feels right. This is for the ones who never quite fit the mold, who took the long way, who are still figuring it out. You’re not alone.

Welcome to The Expat Educator. Let’s take the next step together.