Barirah Zubair Hangargekar

I began my teaching journey by working with secondary grade learners for five years, where I developed a strong foundation in classroom facilitation and learner engagement. Later, I had the opportunity to step into preschool education, and that experience transformed my perspective as an educator. Working with young children taught me invaluable lessons in compassion, empathy, patience, and the language of love that every child understands.

Over the years, I realized that true teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but about understanding each learner's unique needs and creating opportunities that help them grow with confidence. I strive to build safe, inclusive learning environments where children feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and expressing their ideas.

For the past few years, I had been searching for a role that would support not only my career growth but also my professional development. Joining 21K School has given me that opportunity, allowing me to continue learning, exploring innovative teaching practices, and growing as an educator. I still consider myself a lifelong learner, always open to learning from my learners, my colleagues, and every new experience that shapes my journey.

If someone had asked me years ago what I wanted to become, my answer would have been a lawyer, not a teacher. Having watched my mother and elder sister dedicate themselves to teaching, I had also witnessed the challenges that came with the profession, and I believed my path would be different.

Life, however, had other plans. I stepped into teaching thinking it would be temporary, but somewhere along the way, the classroom became home. With every learner who grew in confidence, every small milestone that turned into a big achievement, and every smile, hug, and heartfelt “Thank you, Ma’am” from learners and parents, I found a sense of purpose I had never expected.

Teaching taught me as much as I taught my learners. Young children showed me the true meaning of compassion, empathy, patience, and the language of unconditional love. Their victories became my victories, and their growth became my greatest reward.

Today, I no longer wonder if teaching was the right choice. I truly believe I was born to be a teacher. This profession has become my identity, and I feel proud to carry forward the legacy of my mother and my elder sister while continuing to learn and grow every day as an educator.