Kheirunnissa Lakhani has just recently signed on to teach OVS’s latest Grade 7 and 8 course additions, along with some of her favourite subjects, including Business, Civics, and Careers. Mrs. Lakhani is dedicated to helping students succeed above all else and is excited to be a part of the OVS family!
Keep reading to learn more about the woman behind the screen!
First off, where are you from and where did you grow up?
I was born in Arusha and grew up in Dar-es-salaam, Tanzania
Where did you go for post-secondary and your teaching degree?
I started my teaching career as an Early Childhood Educator. My undergrad degree is from Ontario Tech University. I have been a Registered ECE since 2014.
What made you want to become a teacher?
My volunteer experience in Tanzania teaching kids aged 8-12.
What is your favourite part of being a teacher?
I find teaching to be a noble profession. It is the one profession where, as an educator, you can support your students to help them reach their full potential.
Do you prefer teaching online or in a classroom? How do they compare?
I have traditionally taught in person, but have recently been teaching online. I feel both have their strengths. Technology is so advanced and there are so many teaching tools available to educators.
What are some of your favourite pastimes, aside from teaching?
I love to read and do puzzles. I am a huge Disney fan. I also love to travel! Below is a photo I took while visiting Costa Rica.
Who would you say is your biggest influence/role model?
My mother. She is a single parent (widowed) and raised three daughters by herself in a third-world country. She believed in us and supported us in achieving all of our goals.
What do you feel is your greatest success in life so far?
My biggest success story is my two amazing daughters. They are my inspiration.
If you couldn’t be a teacher, what career would you most like to have?
I can see myself being a social worker or a mental health support worker.
OK! It’s time for a little rapid fire get-to-know-you! Ready? Set? Go!
Favourite song?
Spring Love by Stevie B
Favourite movie?
Cinderella – The Original!
Favourite book?
Robert Munsch – Love You Forever
Describe yourself in 5 words.
Kind, Happy, Supportive, Inclusive, Passionate
What is the first thing you would do or buy if you won the lottery?
Take my friends and family on a tour around the world!
And finally, what is one piece of advice you would like to share with your students?
You can reach any goal you set for yourself! I am here to help support you in achieving those goals, but the first step needs to come from you. Before you can achieve anything, you need to decide what you want to achieve.