How our worldwide alumni connect and bring positive change
‘All alums were engaged and upbeat … stunningly smart, poised and impressive young men and women; all grateful for the Pestalozzi education that gave them their start.’
Reunion Success
Held in mid-September, just as the Merger between the Pestalozzi International Foundation (PIF) and Pestalozzi World (PW) was taking place, the Canada and US-based Pestalozzi Alumni Reunion is a wonderful example of the strength of our combined alumni body. Organised by a PIF alumna and a PW alumnus, the reunion included one PIF-PW, four PIF and 10 PW alumni, and included representatives from the Pestalozzi Indian, UK and Zambian Villages. Two representatives from the newly launched Alumni-led not for profit organisation – PWCA (Pestalozzi World Canada and America) - also joined the reunion. With its Board comprised of Pestalozzi alumni, the PWCA is an alumni relationship building and fundraising body.
Having gained full scholarships to study at a range of colleges and universities, including Harvard, Brown, Princeton and Wesleyan, our Canada and US-based alumni study or are employed in fields that include Global Health, Materials Science, Industrial Engineering, Data Analytics, Computer Science, Mental Health and Molecular Science.
Just as important, discussions held at the reunion illustrated the high emotional and intellectual intelligence of the alumni. They were reflective, perceptive and honest, as well as keen to support each other and to help the wider community. Reunion host, David Langstaff, a Director of Pestalozzi US Children’s Charity Inc., described them as ‘engaged and upbeat … stunningly smart, poised and impressive young men and women; all grateful for the Pestalozzi education that gave them their start.’ We know that our alumni will go far, not only as individuals, but for the benefit of their communities of origin, and those in which they are now based.
Jyoti's Story: Paying It Forward through Education
Jyoti's life was transformed by the education she received, made possible through a PIF scholarship and subsequent university scholarships. From attending Connecticut College in the U.S. to Hertie School of Governance in Berlin, these opportunities shaped her future. Reflecting on this, Jyoti is deeply committed to giving back, believing that investing in education can truly change lives. She currently works as a Senior Social Protection Specialist at the World Bank in Nepal.
In response to seeing children from underserved communities excelling in school but with no clear path forward, Jyoti co-founded the Samaanta Project. Now in its 13th year, the project supports 50 fellows, ensuring their school fees are covered and providing the guidance and mentorship they need to succeed. As a board member, Jyoti oversees key decisions regarding student selection, staffing, and partnerships that allow these children to receive a life-changing education.
The Samaanta fellows serve as role models within their communities, inspiring others to pursue education and raising aspirations for future generations. Jyoti’s dedication continues to foster hope and drive change, as she believes education not only transforms individual lives but uplifts entire communities.