This teacher’s day, we at Kanakia International School are honourned to share some of the most inspiring stories from our dear mentors & educators who put in hours of hard work teaching valuable lessons to our aspiring learners. Crafted below is a heartfelt entry by our much-adored MYP Co-ordinator from Kanakia International School – IB, Chembur, Ms. Shreya Mudaliar, sharing her journey in this ever-giving field of education.
“I never envisioned myself as a teacher. My journey into education began quite unexpectedly during my graduation years, when I started taking tuitions. It was not out of compulsion, but in a family of seven with my father as the sole breadwinner, an additional income was always Valuable.
After marriage, teaching evolved from being an additional support to becoming a purposeful engagement. What initially began as supplementary tutoring gradually transformed into a passion for guiding learners and cultivating curiosity. Over the span of 22 years, I realized that teaching was not merely a side pursuit—it was becoming an integral part of my identity.
The turning point came when one of my students asked me, “Teacher, why don’t you come to our school and teach? We want someone who can explain with clarity and understand how each of us learns differently.” That simple yet profound request encouraged me to pursue a B.Ed and step into formal schooling.
My first professional opportunity came with RBKIA (now Kanakia International School), an institution that believed in me and gave me the platform to grow. I began as a MYP Design teacher, and over the period of 10 years, I embraced diverse roles: Homeroom teacher, Service as Action advisor, Personal Project supervisor, IAYP Award Leader, British Council (ISA) Coordinator, PISA test in-charge, Newsletter incharge, Economics teacher, and IBDP Computer Science teacher. Each role enriched my perspective and helped me
evolve as an educator.
The International Baccalaureate journey expanded my horizons further. I took on leadership responsibilities as an IDU (Interdisciplinary Unit) and Personal Project Examiner and Coordinator, IBEN Online Workshop Facilitator, IBEN Workshop Leader, and IBEN Programme Leader. I also had the privilege of facilitating SAIBSA workshops in Design,
where I engaged with educators worldwide, exchanging perspectives and building lasting professional connections.
Eventually, I was entrusted with the role of MYP Coordinator at Kanakia International School. I had the privilege of being part of two programme evaluations, both of which resulted in commendations from the visiting team. These experiences strengthened my belief in reflective practice, collaboration, and the transformative power of education. Looking back, I carry with me a tapestry of memories—students who inspired me, colleagues
who collaborated with me, and mentors who guided me. Each one has been an integral part of the journey that brought me to where I stand today.
I remain profoundly grateful to Kanakia International School for recognizing my potential and providing me with opportunities to grow at every stage. The school has been more than just a workplace; it has been a community of trust, collaboration, and inspiration, where my passion for teaching found its true purpose.
The IB philosophy has instilled in me the essence of lifelong learning. I see my journey not as a culmination, but as a continuum—each milestone preparing me for the next. For me, teaching has gone beyond being a profession; it has been a profound journey of transformation, purpose, and growth.”
Happy Teacher’s Day!