Rekha Rachel Varghese, Coordinator for Classes 3-5/Teacher, GIIS Balestier Campus, Singapore

I was inducted into the GIIS team on April 1, 2005. Memories of the small gathering in the conference room at GIIS Queenstown Campus are still treasured. We listened eagerly and made notes of all the points that were shared by the school leaders. From that day on there has been no looking back for me.

I began my journey in GIIS as a class teacher and a Maths teacher for Class 1. During the first year at GIIS, I gained far more experience than I had in all my years of teaching. The myGIIS portal was a new experience to start with, but it was one which turned out to be extremely user friendly and got me addicted within no time. The school Annual Day in 2005 was another great learning experience. Class teachers played the most important role in making the show a success. Like the thrill of a child exploring new things, I enjoyed being part of the entire process.

In 2007, I was offered the position of Coordinator for the Primary campus and in the same year GIIS celebrated five years of establishment with Global Harmony – a multicultural mega event that brought the entire GIIS family together. In January 2008, a team of teachers and staff members moved to the new GIIS campus at Balestier. Over the years, the guidance and support provided by Principal, Ms Melissa Maria has helped in nurturing my abilities to lead my team. I participated in the excellence workshop and was privileged to be certified as an internal auditor. I probably would have never had such opportunities anywhere else. At GIIS, I have learnt about the importance of teamwork and respect for one and another.

During the academic session 2010-11, Ms Maria suggested that I take the lead in conducting a leadership workshop for kids. With her encouragement, I was able to conduct the workshop successfully. This enabled me to grow as a person and as a professional and the learning continues. GIIS is unique in the way it creates opportunities for us and gives us room to grow. The plaques that adorn my living room read, ‘GIIS Ambassador Award’, ‘GIIS Star Award’ and ‘GIIS Long Service award’ and are a testimony of the encouragement and appreciation I have received.

As a GIIS team member, I have made many friends, shared their happiness, developed profound respect for some, and even found new gurus. I have had the privilege to meet great personalities like the former President of India, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, GSF President Prof MGK Menon, and award winning actress Ms Shabana Azmi.

With friends we have laughed merrily and also held hands to console and comfort. The untimely demise of a colleague and dear friend, Ms Manju Verma in January 2012 is something that will stay in my mind. However, life moves on and we will continue in our effort to take GIIS to greater heights. I sincerely wish that GIIS continue to be a beacon of light to all.