This article chronicles the remarkable journey of an educational visionary who transformed a humble nursery in the UAE into a thriving career in global education. Beginning in the 1980s with a small preschool for her daughter, the author’s passion for education led her to establish and expand educational institutions across various levels. Her journey encompasses roles from nursery owner to university leader, culminating in the foundation of MS Education Consultants. With advanced degrees in psychology and educational leadership, including a Ph.D. from Harvard Affiliate Mother Teresa University, Dr. Mariam Shaikh has shaped educational policies and practices worldwide. Mariam Shaikh’s expertise spans early childhood education to higher education, focusing on student recruitment, marketing, and international relations. This narrative not only showcases personal growth and professional achievements but also highlights the transformative power of education and the impact of resilience and adaptability in building a successful career. We talked to her and she said:
My journey into the field of education began unexpectedly in the 1980s when my husband was posted as the Airport Manager for Kuwait Airways Corporation in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. At the time, I was searching for a preschool for our two-year-old daughter, but with limited options available, I decided to start a nursery in our villa. What began as a small initiative quickly grew into something much larger. The nursery, equipped with a spacious garden, playground equipment, and even a mini zoo, became a haven for young children. As word spread about the quality of education and care we provided, enrollment increased rapidly. Within a short time, I moved the nursery to a larger facility and officially licensed it under the name Hadana Shams al Worood (Sunflower Nursery), eventually serving over 60 children from various nationalities.
This experience was a pivotal moment in my career, igniting a deep passion for education. I realized the profound impact that quality early childhood education could have on young minds, motivating me to explore other areas within the education sector. Over the years, I took on leadership roles in various educational institutions, driving their growth and expanding their reach. I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree with Honors in Psychology, followed by a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology, which laid the groundwork for my understanding of the psychological and educational needs of students. My expertise continued to expand, culminating in a Ph.D. in Transformational Educational Leadership from Harvard Affiliate Mother Teresa University in 2019. This advanced study equipped me with the knowledge and skills to lead and innovate in the education sector, particularly in shaping educational policies and practices that transform institutions and positively impact students’ lives.
I’ve held significant leadership roles in schools and universities, where I’ve driven substantial growth and transformation. One of my most notable achievements was leading the expansion of a K-12 school in the UAE, growing it into one of the largest Asian schools in the region with over 7,000 students. I eventually transitioned to the higher education sector, where I played a key role in establishing foreign university branch campuses in the UAE, including the University of New Brunswick in Dubai Knowledge Village. This initiative paved the way for other international universities to set up their campuses in the region, driven by a desire to create more opportunities for students to access world-class education without leaving the country.
MS Education Consultants, established in 2020, draws on over 35 years of experience in the education sector. This business is the culmination of my lifelong passion for education and my commitment to helping students achieve their academic and career goals. Through MS Education Consultants, I offer personalized guidance and support to students, helping them navigate the often complex process of selecting the right university, securing scholarships, and planning their careers. My journey, which began with a small nursery, has come full circle. Today, I am proud to say that my experience spans the entire spectrum of education, from early childhood to higher education. My work is driven by a deep belief in the transformative power of education and a commitment to helping others achieve their dreams. This journey has not only shaped my career but also reinforced my belief in the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying true to one’s values.
Our clientele includes students and parents from diverse backgrounds seeking higher education opportunities abroad, as well as educational institutions looking to attract and support international students. Our clients have gone on to study at prestigious institutions worldwide, achieving their academic and career goals. Their success stories, which include securing admissions to top universities, receiving scholarships, and launching successful careers, are a testament to the effectiveness of our services.
My expertise in Higher Education is in the areas of Student Recruitment, Marketing, Strategic Development, International Relations, and Student Experience. I am pleased to share that last year, MS Education Consultants was appointed as the official ‘Middle East Strategist’ for the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada; a top ranked comprehensive University, recognized as a Canadian Leader in Student Experience and known for experiential learning and career development. This has been a fantastic milestone for my company, and I look forward to continued success and excellence with this prestigious partnership.
Following on the success story with University of Guelph and sending several students from this region to study there, I received a similar project from the Toronto Metropolitan University in Canada to assist students from the Middle East who wish to pursue their higher education there. Toronto Metropolitan University is a leading comprehensive innovation university integrated into Canada’s largest and most diverse city. Toronto Metropolitan University’s history is rooted in innovative, career-driven education with the goal of addressing contemporary societal needs.
At MS Education Consultants, we provide a wide range of services catering to students, professionals, and educational institutions, all aimed at guiding and supporting their academic and career aspirations. Our services include university and program selection, application assistance, scholarship and financial aid guidance, career counseling and internship placement, workshops and seminars, and post-enrollment support. Our deep industry experience, coupled with our client-centered approach, sets us apart as a trusted partner in the education sector.
What distinguishes MS Education Consultants is our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and the success of every student we work with. We emphasize personalized guidance, tailoring our advice to align with each student’s unique aspirations, strengths, and challenges. With over 35 years in the education sector, our extensive experience and vast network allow us to offer unparalleled insights and opportunities, ensuring our students have access to the best possible resources. We take a holistic approach, providing comprehensive services that go beyond academic counseling to include scholarship assistance, career counseling, and post-admission support. Our dedication to innovation drives us to constantly expand our offerings, from introducing internship opportunities to developing unique learning programs for students and educators. At the core of our mission is the empowerment of students, helping them make informed decisions about their futures and build the lives they envision for themselves.
At MS Education Consultants, we pride ourselves on being more than just a consultancy; we are partners in our clients’ journeys toward academic and professional excellence. Our mission is to help students and educational institutions achieve their goals by providing expert guidance and personalized support. By helping our clients make informed decisions and access the best opportunities, we empower them to grow academically and professionally. This growth extends beyond individual success, positively impacting families, communities, and industries. Educated individuals become leaders, innovators, and change-makers who contribute to the advancement of society as a whole.
Events play a pivotal role in this ecosystem of growth and development. For our clients, participating in events such as workshops, seminars, and networking gatherings is invaluable. These events offer a platform for learning about the latest trends and innovations in education and industry, informing better decision-making and strategy. They also provide opportunities for building connections with peers, mentors, and potential collaborators, leading to new partnerships and business ventures. Moreover, events serve a broader societal purpose by fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. They bring together diverse groups of people who can exchange ideas, share experiences, and collaborate on solutions to common challenges. This exchange of knowledge and perspectives is essential for societal progress, promoting innovation, inclusivity, and mutual understanding.
In today’s market, particularly in the education sector, challenges are a constant part of the journey. As the CEO of MS Education Consultants, I’ve faced my share of hurdles, whether it’s managing work, dealing with clients, or staying ahead of the competition. One major challenge is managing diverse client expectations. Our clients come from various backgrounds, each with unique needs and aspirations. Balancing these expectations while delivering personalized, effective solutions can be demanding. To tackle this, I prioritize active listening and clear communication, understanding each client’s specific goals and concerns. Building strong, trust-based relationships is key—this transparency helps manage expectations and ensures client satisfaction.
Competition is another significant challenge. The education consultancy field is increasingly competitive, with new players entering all the time. To stay ahead, I focus on continuous learning and innovation. I make it a point to stay updated with the latest trends in education and incorporate cutting-edge technologies into our offerings. This not only keeps us relevant but also allows us to provide something unique to our clients. Maintaining a strong industry network is also crucial, as it keeps me informed and provides insights that help us stay competitive. Work pressure and balancing multiple responsibilities come with the territory. Effective time management and delegation are essential here. I’ve learned to focus on my strengths and where I can make the most impact, while trusting my team to handle other critical tasks. This approach not only reduces stress but ensures that every aspect of the business is managed with care and expertise.
Starting a business, especially in the field of education, is both a challenging and rewarding journey. My advice to those considering this path is to begin with a clear vision and a deep passion for what you want to achieve. The education sector is unique in that it directly impacts the lives and futures of individuals, so your work needs to be driven by a genuine desire to make a difference. First and foremost, understand the landscape you are entering. Research thoroughly, understand the needs of your target audience, and be aware of the regulatory environment, especially if you are working in different regions or countries. This knowledge will be invaluable as you navigate the complexities of the business.
Next, build a strong network. In the education field, connections with academic institutions, industry professionals, and other entrepreneurs can open doors and provide valuable insights. Don’t be afraid to reach out for mentorship or advice; learning from others’ experiences can save you from common pitfalls. Another key piece of advice is to be adaptable. The business world is constantly evolving, with new technologies, methodologies, and challenges emerging regularly. Stay informed and be willing to pivot your strategies when necessary to stay relevant and effective. Lastly, always remember that your success will be measured not just by financial gain, but by the impact you have on the lives of your clients. Focus on delivering quality, building trust, and maintaining integrity in all your dealings. When you prioritize the success and well-being of those you serve, your business will naturally grow and thrive.
Starting a business is a journey of continuous learning and growth. Stay committed, stay passionate, and keep pushing forward, even when the road gets tough. Your efforts can shape the future, and that is a truly powerful and fulfilling endeavor.
