In a remarkable triumph, Sister Zeph, a dedicated teacher from Pakistan, has emerged victorious in the prestigious Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize 2023, securing a monumental $1 million award. Her outstanding contributions and tireless commitment to education have garnered global recognition.
Sister Zeph’s journey began at the age of 13 when she established a school for underprivileged children within her home’s courtyard. Her remarkable dedication to empowering children from marginalized backgrounds earned her this esteemed award, organized in collaboration with UNESCO and in strategic partnership with Dubai Cares, a philanthropic organization. The $1 million prize stands as the largest of its kind worldwide.
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Selected from a pool of over 7,000 nominations and applications across 130 countries, Sister Zeph, an educator specializing in English, Urdu, cultural studies, interfaith harmony, and climate change, captivated the judges with her unwavering dedication and transformative teaching methods.
Renowned actor, comedian, and writer Stephen Fry announced Sister Zeph’s victory during a ceremony hosted from UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris as part of its 42nd session General Conference. The event was graced by influential personalities such as Grammy Award-winning songwriter Nile Rodgers, who emphasized the profound impact teachers have on shaping lives and fostering learning experiences.
Adding to the prestigious event, US National Youth Poet Laureate Alexandra Huỳnh presented a poignant poem underscoring the value of empowered education, while The Voice singer Rachel Modest delivered a soulful tribute honoring educators worldwide.
Sister Zeph’s commitment to education transcends boundaries. For over two decades, her school, initially established in her home’s courtyard, has expanded to accommodate more than 200 underprivileged children, providing free education and empowering countless individuals from modest backgrounds. Many of her students have found success, working for her education and empowerment foundation or pursuing prosperous professional careers.
Beyond the classroom, Sister Zeph’s initiatives include self-defense classes for girls and financial aid for families torn between education and financial struggles. Additionally, her vocational center has empowered over 6,000 women with skills in ICT, textiles, and English language proficiency.
With the substantial prize money, Sister Zeph envisions a brighter future. Her ambitious plans involve establishing a school on 10 acres of land, offering education to children from the country’s poorest families without discrimination. Moreover, she aims to create a haven for orphans, integrating sustainable food growth and inviting teachers from diverse backgrounds to provide comprehensive education in various subjects.
Sister Zeph’s unwavering dedication and transformative vision serve as a beacon of hope, promising to uplift the marginalized and redefine educational opportunities for generations to come.
