Lesson 7: Problem-Solving When you deal with energetic teens every day, you learn to problem-solve quickly. Teaching is an exercise in constant problem-solving. From managing classroom dynamics to addressing individual learning challenges, every day presents new obstacles. These experiences have…
Lesson 6: The Power of Mentorship Teaching isn’t just about imparting knowledge; it’s about nurturing young minds to reach their full potential. I’ve found that there is no better way to nurture people than through mentorship. Through the power of…
Lesson 5: Being Resourceful When I joined teaching, I was ready to change the world – or so I thought. My resolve was deflated soon after when I realised that the school was not sufficiently stocked with books and teaching materials. Teaching…
Lesson 4: Patience and Perseverance One of the most impactful poems I’ve ever read remains attributed to an anonymous author. It beautifully captures the essence of patience and perseverance: He worked by day And toiled by night. He gave up…
Lesson 3: Effective Communication The first time I entered the classroom was marked by a misguided attempt to impress students with my extensive vocabulary. Armed with a freshly minted university degree— from the University of Zambia at that— I mistakenly…
Lesson 2: Adaptability My teaching career commenced at Roan Antelope Secondary School in Luanshya, Copperbelt, in September 2012. I was immediately assigned a very challenging grade 11 class. Initially, I adopted a traditional, authoritative approach, mirroring the teaching styles I…
I’ve been reflecting on the many life lessons I’ve learnt as a teacher of English. For years, my classrooms haven’t just been filled with eager teenagers willing to learn; they’ve been a breeding ground for valuable business and life lessons.…
Conjuring up business ideas can be an exciting undertaking. However, the thrill of imagining your product or service out in the world can easily cloud your judgment. Critically evaluating your idea and the target market is important before diving in. That’s why…
The side hustle movement is booming, and for good reason. This is because offering a valuable product or service, based on a business idea, can be a fast track to financial freedom. Thus, the foundation of any successful side hustle…
The rise of remote work and technology has shaken up the traditional workplace. Across the globe, many professionals are re-evaluating their careers, with some successfully transitioning to entirely new fields. Additionally, the allure of entrepreneurship is inspiring others to question…