Maciej Karwowski March 2025 SENIA World Changer Award Recipient

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We are proud to announce Maciej Karwowski as a recipient for the SENIA World Changer Award. Currently serving as a Learning Support Teacher at Copenhagen International School in Denmark, Maciej hails from Poland and brings a wealth of international teaching experience to his role.

With two Master’s Degrees—one in English Language and another in Special and Additional Learning Needs from the University of East London—Maciej has dedicated his academic research to exploring how best to identify and support gifted and exceptionally able students in the PYP. His thesis, titled “Effective Ways of Identifying and Supporting the Gifted and Exceptionally Able PYP Students,” reflects his commitment to excellence in education.

Over the past few years, Maciej has made a significant impact on a diverse range of Grade 4 and 5 students at Copenhagen International School. This nomination comes from an outpouring of gratitude from both past and current students, as well as their parents.

Maciej’s influence transcends traditional academics; he provides personalized support that addresses every facet of a child’s development—social, emotional, behavioral, and academic. His efforts to foster confidence, independence, and friendships among his students shine through in the heartfelt testimonials shared by families.

Whether he is nurturing friendships during recess, guiding students through their learning challenges, or creating safe spaces for those in need, Maciej consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every child thrives. His unwavering dedication, extensive knowledge, and commitment to individualized support redefine what it means to be an exceptional educator and a true life-changer.

#SENIAWorldChanger #SENIAInternational #Inclusion

Nur Adira Mad Harim February 2025 SENIA World Changer Award Recipient

We are thrilled to announce that the February 2025 SENIA World Changer Award goes to Nur Adira Mad Harim, a dedicated inclusion teacher at Keningau Vocational school in Sabah, Malaysia. Her impactful work has transformed the educational experience for students with disabilities, particularly those who are neurodivergent and those with hearing impairments.

At her school, which serves over 1,000 students, Adira champions inclusivity by ensuring that all learners can participate fully in school activities. She plays a vital role in translating speeches and talks during assemblies and educational events into sign language, making these experiences accessible to hearing-impaired students.

Adira’s passion for inclusivity doesn’t stop there. Inspired by her role as a sign language translator, she has taken the initiative to provide live translations of singing performances. This thoughtful addition allows learners who communicate through sign language to understand and enjoy the lyrics, ensuring they are not left out during musical events.Her innovative approach has received widespread praise, fostering a sense of belonging and engagement amongst all learners. 

Join us in congratulating Nur Adira Mad Harim for her outstanding contributions and commitment to creating an inclusive educational environment. She truly embodies the spirit of the SENIA World Changer Award!

To see Adira doing live translations, click here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/141P-AfdxGI9_5zO_96-KgGJ1cCdzX3Bk/view

 

#SENIAInternational #SENIAWorldChanger #Inclusion

Nikki Moffitt January 2025 SENIA World Changer Award Recipient

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We are thrilled to announce that Nikki Moffitt is the recipient of the prestigious SENIA World Changer Award! This honor recognizes her incredible efforts in creating the Facebook group Expat Kids Learning Differently, a vital resource for parents of neurodivergent and disabled children.

Nikki recognized the need for a supportive community where parents could connect, share experiences, and uplift one another. Unable to find such a space, she took the initiative to create it herself. Through Expat Kids Learning Differently, Nikki has fostered an inclusive environment for parents navigating the complexities of raising children with diverse needs in unfamiliar settings.

This group serves a wide range of parents—from those just beginning to understand their child’s diagnosis to seasoned advocates leading support initiatives in schools. It provides a platform for discussions about schools, medication availability, therapy options, and a space for both venting frustrations and celebrating achievements.

Nikki’s dedication to empowering globally mobile families has truly made a difference, allowing them to connect with one another and thrive. We applaud her passion and commitment and are excited to see the continued impact of her work.

Congratulations, Nikki! Your vision and leadership are changing lives! ❤️

#SENIAInternational #Inclusion #SENIAWorldChanger

Project Visionary December 2024 SENIA World Changer Award Recipient

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Congratulations to Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) Students!
We are proud to announce that five exceptional IBO students from DCB—Gary Zhang, Jayden Ng, Jason Zou, Ethan Ning, and Tim Zhang—are this month’s recipients of the SENIA World Changer Award.
These dedicated students have taken significant steps to address the pressing issue of poverty faced by visually impaired teenagers. They established their own Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) and website, authored a book on financial literacy for teens, printed it in Braille, and distributed it free of charge to schools catering to the visually impaired throughout China.
Their impactful work will continue as they mentor a new group of DCB students to carry on the mission of writing, publishing, and distributing Braille materials on various topics.
For more information about their initiative, visit their NGO website: Project Visionary.

Florence Walton November 2024 SENIA World Changer Award Recipient

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We are pleased to announce that Florence Walton, an international student studying in Bangkok, has been honored with the SENIA World Changer Award.

Florence has embarked on a remarkable personal journey to deepen her understanding of alternative communication methods. Inspired by her desire to support individuals with communication difficulties, she chose to learn Makaton as part of her Duke of Edinburgh International Award.

Demonstrating exceptional passion and commitment, Florence dedicated her evenings to studying Makaton alongside her regular schoolwork. After successfully completing the Makaton Workshop Level 1, she continued her journey by achieving certifications in Makaton Levels 2, 3, and 4.
Through her efforts, Florence has not only acquired a valuable skill but has also taken significant steps toward fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for those facing communication challenges. Her dedication exemplifies the spirit of the SENIA World Changer Award, and we celebrate her achievements and impact.

Congratulations, Florence, on this well-deserved recognition!

#SENIAWorldChanger #SENIAInternational #Inclusion

Sarah Devotion Garner October 2024 SENIA World Changer Award Recipient

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We are pleased to recognize Sarah for her exceptional contributions to Global Neurodiverse Families, a vital support network for families navigating neurodiversity. Sarah embodies the qualities of compassion, dedication, and resilience, making a profound impact on our community.

Through her tireless efforts, Sarah has established a network where families can connect, share experiences, and provide mutual support in a safe and welcoming environment. This sense of community is invaluable, ensuring that no one feels alone in their journey.

Sarah’s influence extends beyond our local community. She has actively advocated for broader awareness and education surrounding neurodiversity and inclusion, creating opportunities for Vietnamese educators to enhance their understanding in this important area. Her commitment has touched the lives of teachers, specialists, and families alike, solidifying her role as a cornerstone of our initiative.

We are grateful for Sarah’s unwavering dedication and her exemplary model of inclusivity and diversity. Her work continues to inspire us all.

Congratulations to Sarah Devotion Garner as this month’s SENIA World Changer Award winner!

Hear about Sarah’s dedication to inclusion here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Dd_O2JHi7wwMhQSHBIxFGOTu4gm5Cb6v/view

Smrithy Rajesh September 2024 SENIA World Changer Award Recipient

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Smrithy Rajesh September 2024 SENIA World Changer Award Recipient

Celebrating the remarkable achievements of Smrithy Rajesh, a dedicated advocate for inclusion, her family has turned personal challenges into a powerful movement for change. As a parent of a special needs child, she often felt anxious in public places due to society’s lack of empathy. Her resolve was tested when two staff members of Sri Lankan Airlines unjustly claimed that her autistic son would pose a threat to passengers if allowed to fly. Determined to prevent other families from facing similar trauma, she courageously filed a case against the airline for violating the Rights for People with Disabilities (RPWD) Act 2016 in the Court of Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities.

Her victory not only brought justice for her son but also sparked a significant shift in the aviation industry, prompting all Indian airlines to enforce the RPWD Act and ensure that everyone has the right to fly. Her son continues to inspire her advocacy, driving her to work tirelessly for other families and children, and helping to create a more inclusive society where every individual is valued. This award celebrates Smrithy for her unwavering commitment to fostering inclusion and her impactful contributions to the rights of persons with disabilities.

Congratulations to Smrithy Rajesh for being a SENIA World Changer!

Hear her story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1Dbx4sNzv4

#SENIAWorldChanger #inclusion #RightToFly #SENIAInternational

NUR AFIQA AMANI AUGUST 2024 SENIA WORLD CHANGER AWARD RECIPIENT

Congratulations to Nur Afiqa Amani on being recognized for her impactful and inclusive project! Afiqa’s work demonstrates a deep commitment to supporting the wellbeing and mental health of all students, including those who are neurodivergent or hearing-impaired.

By founding the “It’s Okay” project, Afiqa has empowered her schoolmates to better communicate their emotions through the use of visuals and socioemotional learning strategies. This inclusive approach has enabled all students, regardless of their neurological or sensory differences, to actively participate and feel welcomed.

Afiqa’s inclusive mental health awareness week, featuring activities like art therapy, origami, nature walks, and social gatherings, has been particularly noteworthy. These research-backed initiatives have successfully engaged neurodivergent and disabled learners, providing them with a safe and supportive environment to explore mental health and wellness.

The community project grant awarded to Afiqa’s initiative is a testament to the significant impact and scalability of her work. By expanding the reach of this inclusive project, even more individuals will be able to benefit from Afiqa’s innovative and compassionate approach to promoting mental health and wellbeing.

Nur Afiqa Amani’s remarkable achievement in championing inclusive practices and destigmatizing mental health serves as an inspiration to us all. Her dedication to ensuring that all students have the resources and support they need to thrive is truly commendable.

Hear her story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQlHfOb2Fm0

Congratulations to Nur Afiqa Amani as this month’s recipient of the SENIA World Changer Award.

#SENIAInternational  #SENIAWorldChanger #InclusionAwards

Dr. Keri Sullivan June 2024 SENIA World Changer Award Recipient

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Dr. Keri Sullivan June 2024 SENIA World Changer Award Recipient

SENIA is thrilled to announce that Dr. Keri Sullivan has been selected as a World Changer award recipient for June 2024. Dr. Sullivan has dedicated her career to advocating for greater inclusion and support for children with autism and other disabilities.

Dr. Sullivan has been a tireless champion for children and families. While working for the Lee County School System, she fought to ensure students with disabilities were fully included in the general education classroom. Even after leaving the school system, she has continued to support families as a consultant, providing expertise and attending IEP meetings to advocate for the resources and accommodations students need.

In addition to her work in the community, Dr. Sullivan is also a professor at a local university, teaching the next generation of educators the importance of inclusive practices. She emphasizes the benefits of the least restrictive environment and gives her students the tools to create classrooms where all students feel welcome and supported.

Through her advocacy, leadership, and innovative approach, Dr. Sullivan has been instrumental in changing mindsets and making inclusion a reality for countless children. Her dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts make her most deserving of this World Changer award. Congratulations, Dr. Sullivan, on this well-earned recognition of her invaluable contributions.

#SENIAWorld Changer #InclusionAwards #SENIAInternational

KATE BOWLER MAY 2024 SENIA WORLD CHANGER AWARD RECIPIENT

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KATE BOWLER MAY 2024 SENIA WORLD CHANGER AWARD RECIPIENT

It is with great pleasure that we announce Kate as the recipient of the 2024 SENIA World Changer Award for her tireless efforts to promote inclusion for children in Cambodia.

For over a decade, Kate has been a passionate advocate for ensuring all children, regardless of their abilities, can access the support and resources they need to thrive. Her work with grassroots Khmer organizations has been instrumental in developing best practices and training countless local staff to compassionately teach and assist children with complex needs.

Kate’s dedication deepened when she joined SENIA Cambodia in 2019, and since then she has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the organization’s vital mission moving forward – even through the immense challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her consistent voice and unwavering commitment have had a profound impact, not only on SENIA’s work, but on the larger inclusion landscape across Cambodia.

Through her advocacy, training programs, and collaborative efforts, Kate has made an immeasurable difference in the lives of countless vulnerable children. Her selfless service and unwavering commitment to inclusion serve as an inspiration to us all.

Please join us in congratulating Kate on this well-deserved recognition of her exceptional contributions.

Here is a link to Kate’s services: 

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/Lhteue1HUHxh9AZX/?mibextid=CYgPv5