English native Laura appreciates Dubai for its vibrant mix of cultures, among many other things
Tell us a little bit of yourself
I am a passionate early years educator with a decade of experience in the nursery sector here in the UAE. My journey in education has been incredibly rewarding, filled with the joy of nurturing young minds.
Outside of work, I’m a wife and a proud mum to an energetic eight-year-old boy. Balancing my career and family life keeps me on my toes, but it’s a challenge I embrace wholeheartedly. As a family, we love living in the UAE and are grateful for the rich diversity and countless opportunities this vibrant place has to offer.
How and when did you move here, and what inspired the move?
I am originally from Yorkshire, but I also spent part of my childhood in Saudi Arabia, which I believe instilled a strong sense of adventure in me. When I was given the opportunity to work on a nursery project in Dubai, I seized it with both hands.
I moved here on my own initially, living and working in Dubai for three months before my husband joined me.
How has living in Dubai shaped your sense of belonging and community?
I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the Yellow Kite Nursery community; it truly feels like my second family. Every morning, I wake up excited to head to work, and that’s a gift I never take for granted.
Dubai, with its vibrant mix of cultures and backgrounds, is a real melting pot that has broadened my horizons and enriched my life. The diversity here has taught me so much about the value of inclusivity, empathy, and adaptability, allowing me to grow both personally and professionally in ways I never imagined.
Can you tell us about a particular person in Dubai who has had a significant impact on your life and why?
From the moment I joined Yellow Kite Nursery, our CEO, Saanika Gandhi, has been a constant source of support, encouragement, and empowerment. She is a shining example of leadership, always open to new ideas, no matter how big or small.
We collaborate as a team to bring these ideas to life. Her innovative spirit continually inspires me, and we share a deep passion for our community and a commitment to supporting its needs and expanding opportunities.
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What is your favourite thing about the emirate and why?
What I love most about Dubai is its incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences. One moment, you could be soaking up the sun on a pristine beach, and the next, you’re hiking through the rugged mountains.
It’s a place where ultra-modern skyscrapers stand tall alongside traditional souks, where the old and new coexist beautifully. Every corner of Dubai offers a new adventure, and I’m constantly amazed by the endless opportunities to explore something fresh and exciting.
A myth about Dubai that you would like to bust
There’s a common misconception that Dubai doesn’t empower women or that opportunities for women are limited, but nothing could be further from the truth. My experience as a leader and educator here reflects the incredible support and growth women can achieve in this city.
Dubai is buzzing with talented female entrepreneurs, CEOs, ministers, educators, and innovators who are breaking barriers and thriving in their fields. The UAE not only welcomes women but actively encourages them, providing a strong platform to lead, inspire, and make meaningful contributions.
Could you share a memorable moment when you felt the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Dubai community in your own life?
When my son was born, everyone we knew, even those we hadn’t known for very long, rallied around us, providing the ‘family’ support network we had back in the UK.
From helping with hospital visits to sending gifts and messages of support, it was heartwarming to have such a caring community to lean on, despite our cultural differences and the short time we had been in Dubai.
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