Born in Pakistan, Fatima Adnan began her journey toward international education when her father’s posting to Myanmar allowed her to attend an international high school and experience a global classroom for the first time. She greatly admired her teachers at the International School of Myanmar—not only for how they inspired students, but also for their adventurous lifestyle, moving from country to country while embracing the opportunities of international education. However, the idea of pursuing an international career was challenging due to cultural expectations.
After completing her degree in computer arts (Visual Arts), Fatima began her career as a Montessori teacher in Pakistan, where she found encouragement and mentorship from one of her teachers. “His guidance planted the seed of ambition in me,” she recalls. He also recommended Search Associates (SEARCH) as an excellent platform to launch an international teaching career.
Fatima spent more than four years teaching before realizing that to grow both personally and professionally, she needed to take the next step overseas. Already a SEARCH member, she became active in the process: updating her profile, applying daily, and, in her words, “learning through every stage.”
Like many candidates, I faced setbacks at first. Competing with more experienced teachers was daunting, and there were times when I felt discouraged. However, with consistent effort, support from my Search Associate (Mr. Ray Sparks), and by attending online job fairs, I began to understand the international hiring process more deeply.
Although job possibilities in Colombia and Qatar did not materialize for a variety of reasons, Fatima treated each experience as a chance to learn and grow. She strengthened her qualifications by earning a Montessori Diploma and enrolling in a bachelor’s program in education.
A breakthrough came when Fatima applied for a visual arts teacher position at the Canadian International School of Hefei, an International Baccalaureate (IB) school. Despite internet issues during her first interview, she was able to demonstrate her passion and commitment when the principal kindly rescheduled. “This opportunity became the gateway to my career as an international educator,” Fatima says.
Now in her second year of teaching abroad, Fatima reflects on the difference this decision has made. Working within the IB system has exposed her to new teaching methodologies, professional workshops, and a culture of collaboration and growth. The experience has transformed not only her teaching practice but also her confidence. She explains,
What once felt out of reach—being a Pakistani woman working internationally—has now become my proud reality. My parents are proud, my colleagues are supportive, and I feel inspired to continue developing myself, completing my B.Ed., and pursuing a teaching license. I also encourage fellow educators in Pakistan to explore opportunities through Search Associates, as I know firsthand how life-changing the platform can be.
Fatima encourages aspiring teachers to stay motivated and resilient, trusting that opportunities will come. She concludes,
I’m grateful to Search Associates for opening the door to a global career that continues to shape me both professionally and personally.
