Q Life Magazine Q Magazine June 2018 | Page 62

| Issue 4 Essa Al Mannai Reaching out to Asia Executive Director of Education Above All Foundation’s Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) programme, Essa Al Mannai, reflects on the rewards and challenges of delivering educational initiatives in over a dozen countries. Guided by Qatar’s 2030 National Vision, ROTA’s volunteer-led work to increase access to quality education among underprivileged school children throughout Asia is nothing short of inspiring. a daily basis with a dedicated passionate team really enriches the professional journey, and instils a sense of confidence that we can overcome any potential challenge together. Also, the diversity of our projects, partners, and beneficiaries brings a sense of excitement and helps avoids routine. What has been your most challenging moment at ROTA? | Wall construction volunteer team, ROTA programme Tell us about your current position at ROTA? I first joined ROTA in 2009 and serve as the programme’s Executive Director. My principal professional endeavour is implementing the strategic course set by our leadership. During this tenure, I have led a variety of initiatives in 15 countries across Asia and MENA, including Indonesia, Pakistan, 62 Nepal, Palestine, and Lebanon, as well as in Qatar itself. These projects typically involve educational leadership and teacher training, as well as sports, environmental and skills development. What is your favourite part of the job? Being part of ROTA’s working environment is truly an exceptional experience in itself. Working on The bombing of our schools in Gaza was without doubt one of the most traumatic and challenging moments. Yet it is also an example of our resilience, and how we can transform a sad event into a success story. The children’s incredible enthusiasm to continue attending school, despite the severe damage, inspired us to rebuild in record time, and the project is now fully functioning again. ROTA has