Leaders
'We live to make a difference'. This powerful phrase encapsulates the guiding philosophy behind the life and work of Rania Nasr, Founder and Managing Director of Risalla Al Ghad Consulting and Training, a KHDA-approved consultancy in Dubai.
A seasoned educator and cultural facilitator, Rania has spent decades advancing teaching practices and reshaping the narrative of education across the Middle East.
Her journey spans continents and cultures, from attending school in Abu Dhabi in the 1970s, to immigrating to Canada and observing a whole new way of learning as a mother and educator. These experiences sparked her mission: to bridge traditional values with innovative teaching, making education both relevant and future-focused.
Returning to the UAE in 2006, Rania joined the international school scene and quickly noticed a profound disconnection in the way of Arabic and Islamic Education subjects were taught, viewed, presented, and treated.
Recognizing the threat this posed to cultural identity, she launched her consultancy not as a short-term fix, but as a long-term investment in teacher empowerment and in school transformation that is both culturally responsive and conscious.
What began with a focus on Arabic and Islamic Education subjects has since evolved into a region-wide movement in teacher development. Rania’s strength lies in her ability to engage educators of all backgrounds, especially seasoned teachers who might hesitate to adopt new methods.
Rather than dismissing their experience, she honors it, building on what they know to inspire what’s possible.
We live to make a difference, and together, we are stronger
What inspired you to start Risalla El Ghad Consulting & Training? How has your journey evolved?
My journey began in Abu Dhabi and continued in Canada, where I experienced two vastly different education systems, first as a student, then as a teacher and mother. These contrasts shaped my belief in education as a form of giving back.
After working in various educational roles including curriculum development and inspection, I founded Risalla El Ghad Consulting & Training in Dubai to fulfil my passion for making a difference.
Our work is hands-on, from initial needs assessments and school visits to mock inspections and deep-dive workshops. We offer root-cause solutions and sustained support. We build trust and long-term growth.
What turning points helped define your vision for educational transformation?
My outlook on education changed after immigrating to Canada. This was one of the most defining moments in my life. The difference in learning environments was striking. While I valued the discipline and structure of my own schooling, the Canadian system encouraged inquiry, voice, and ownership. It made me realize that successful education adapts, it doesn’t cling to the past.
Returning to the UAE was another turning point. I worked in international schools with exceptional educators and noticed a significant gap in how Arabic and Islamic subjects were taught. It was clear that these weren’t just academic gaps, they reflected a deeper issue of identity and relevance. That realization gave me a sense of purpose.
At that time, many teachers were unfamiliar with modern pedagogies. Their resistance wasn’t opposition, it was uncertainty. I made it my goal to help them believe, "I can do this." That mindset shift is where real transformation begins.
What is the link between effective teaching and student learning outcomes?
Teaching and learning are inseparable, strong teaching leads to meaningful learning. When students struggle instead of thriving, the question isn’t just about curriculum, it’s about whether we’ve empowered our teachers.
Effective teaching makes learning visible. To improve student outcomes, we must ensure teachers have access to ongoing training, coaching, and modern strategies that help them connect with students on a deeper level.
If student progress is slow, we must ask: What support have we provided? What needs to change? It’s not about chasing perfect scores. It’s about ensuring no student is left behind.
What challenges do you face when training experienced educators, and how do you address them?
Working with veteran teachers is both a challenge and a privilege. Many have 15 or more years of experience and take great pride in their methods. I respect that deeply.
The key is to invite them in. I design sessions that are engaging and culturally grounded. Coming from an Arabic and Islamic background, I can often read between the lines, including body language, tone, and unspoken doubts. This helps me build trust.
I always present new methods as additions, not replacements. Once educators feel seen and respected, they are incredibly receptive. When we treat their experience as a strength, not a barrier, they respond with openness and enthusiasm.
What have been your key milestones and what drives your continued success?
One of our proudest milestones is the strong reputation we’ve established in the education sector. Today, Risalla Al Ghad Consulting & Training is recognized as a trusted partner, valued for its responsiveness, deep educational insight, and strong cultural fluency in diverse learning environments.
My guiding mantra has always been, ‘Live to make a difference’. That means leaving a positive mark on every child, parent, teacher, and school leader we engage with.
What improvements have you observed in GCC education systems, and what areas still need attention?
Across the GCC, ministries are actively raising standards. Curricula are evolving, school inspection frameworks are both clear and consistently applied. Inspectors follow a rigorous, quality-assured protocol across all educational systems, including British, American, Canadian, Australian, and public, ensuring that evaluations are fair, aligned, and focused on promoting growth and high-quality learning for every student in the classroom.
However, one challenge remains: alignment between school leadership, middle managers, and teachers. Communication gaps often undermine the shared vision schools need to succeed.
Rania Nasr, Founder & Managing Director , Risalla Al Ghad Consulting & Training
Rania Nasr is the Founder and Managing Director of Risalla Al Ghad Consulting & Training, a KHDA-approved consultancy in Dubai specializing in teacher development and sustainable school improvement. An experienced educator and cultural facilitator, she has worked across the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Egypt helping reshape education through strategic, culturally grounded training.
