1. What is HEI Schools Dubai, and what makes it different from other preschools?
HEI Early Learning Centres bring Finland's child-centered approach to early childhood education to the UAE. Our curriculum has been developed in collaboration with the University of Helsinki and is based on decades of research into how young children learn the best. Rather than focusing on academic pressure at an early age, we prioritize curiosity, creativity, emotional wellbeing, and learning through play. Our learning environments are carefully designed to nurture confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning while supporting each child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. As a Finn myself I appreciate the most that all our employees will be trained and mentored by Finnish education experts and all educators are studying for HEI diploma.
2. What is your background, and what led you into education as a career?
My professional journey has always been driven by a passion for people, especially children. I worked as a nurse for 12 years before studying social services and later management and leadership. Being a lifelong learner myself and through my own educational pathways, early childhood education felt like a natural extension of the values I believe in learning and children's right for safe education. Early childhood, in particular, is such a critical stage of development. Being part of an organization that helps children build confidence, resilience, creativity, and a strong foundation for life is incredibly rewarding. Joining HEI Schools was especially exciting because it combines educational excellence with an innovative and research-based approach that genuinely puts children first.
3. What does a typical day at HEI Schools Dubai look like?
A typical day is vibrant, engaging, and full of discovery. Children arrive to a welcoming environment where they feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Throughout the day, they participate in a mix of play-based activities, creative projects, storytelling, music, movement, outdoor exploration, and collaborative learning experiences. Our educators act as guides rather than traditional instructors, observing children's interests, and using those moments to create meaningful learning opportunities. You'll see children exploring nature, building, creating art, solving problems together, and developing social skills through everyday interactions. Every aspect of the day is designed to support holistic development while ensuring that learning remains joyful and purposeful.
4. What do you think Finland and the UAE could learn from each other when it comes to education?
I believe there is tremendous value in both systems. Finland has demonstrated the power of trust, child-centered learning, and prioritizing wellbeing alongside academic development. The Finnish model shows that when children are happy, supported, and engaged, they become confident lifelong learners. The UAE, meanwhile, is recognized globally for its ambition, innovation, and forward-thinking approach. The pace at which the country embraces new ideas and invests in educational excellence is truly impressive. I think Finland can learn from the UAE's entrepreneurial mindset, multicultural environment, and commitment to future-ready skills. At the same time, the UAE can benefit from Finland's emphasis on play, wellbeing, and holistic development in the early years. Together, these strengths create a powerful model for preparing children for a rapidly changing world.
5. What do you personally enjoy most about living and working in Dubai?
What I enjoy most is Dubai's incredible diversity and energy. It is a city where people from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives come together, creating a unique environment for learning, collaboration, and innovation. We moved here 14 years ago with our small children, and the way UAE welcomes children and supports their wellbeing is remarkable. Additionally, it needs to be mentioned how safe this country is and the richness what diversity brings to it in terms of culture, religion, even food. I always say that raising my children here was the best gift I can give them: where else would you learn about different cultures and build such an understanding of multiculturalism than in UAE.
