“I've proudly been a part of the incredible IDP family for almost eight enriching years now. Each year has brought new challenges, learning opportunities, and personal growth, making my journey here an immensely rewarding one. 

My IDP journey began in 2012 when I joined as a multi-destination education counsellor at IDP Abu Dhabi for Australia, UK, Canada, US, and NZ. This opportunity granted me the privilege to pursue my passion for international education and support students in achieving their international study pursuits. Three years of passionately assisting students in navigating their educational journeys laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable career. After a brief hiatus, I rejoined IDP as a Senior Education Counsellor and later was promoted to an Assistant Manager-Canada and United States - each step presenting new challenges and learning experiences. 

This year marked a significant milestone in my journey with IDP Education as I stepped into the dynamic leadership role of Destination Manager for Canada and the United States. It's an incredible opportunity where I find myself at the nexus of leadership and impact. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my leadership role is working alongside a team of dedicated professionals. Together, we've cultivated a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation. It's inspiring to witness the collective effort that goes into making a meaningful impact on the lives of students and shaping future leaders and professionals. 

The journey has been a testament to IDP's commitment to nurturing talent and providing pathways for career advancement. Throughout my journey, I've been encouraged to embrace challenges, take on new responsibilities, and constantly push the boundaries of my capabilities. The result? A continuous journey of learning, development, and professional growth. 

The challenges I've encountered and the diverse projects I've been part of have not only expanded my skill set but have also honed my leadership capabilities and I feel very proud to guide my team with my experience and excel at every task we do. 

In my current role as a Destination Manager for Canada and the US, I am privileged to lead a talented team and contribute to the success of our organization in this crucial region. The challenges are immense, but so are the rewards, and I relish the opportunity to make a positive impact on the future of international education. 

None of this would have been possible without the amazing colleagues and mentors I've had the pleasure of working with. It's the collective effort, collaboration, and shared passion for excellence that make IDP a truly special place to build a career. 

My professional sanctuary lies within IDP's embrace. The recognition and celebration of my hard work and achievements by IDP's Leadership team are moments I deeply treasure. I have consistently been recognized as a top-performing team member throughout my IDP journey and have bagged numerous Global and Middle East excellence best counsellor and highest referral awards. Last year I was honored with a commendation from the Canada Client Success Team, recognizing my standing among the top counselors for Canada destination across the entire IDP network. 

This year holds a special significance with IDP UAE Team being declared winners of the Global Excellence Award for USA student placement across Global IDP offices - an exceptional tribute to our team's unwavering commitment and hard work in supporting students' journeys to study abroad.  

I am grateful for the opportunities IDP has provided for me to grow as a professional and make a meaningful difference in the education sector. The organization's values align with my own, creating a synergy that fuels my enthusiasm and dedication. 

One of the things I value most about my eight-year journey at IDP is the organization's unwavering commitment to authenticity. From day one, I've felt empowered to bring my whole self to work – to express my ideas, share my concerns, and contribute in a way that aligns with my true self. From my early days as a Multi-Destination Education Counsellor to my current role as Destination Manager for Canada and the US, every step has been supported by mentorship, training, and a culture that encourages taking on new challenges. IDP has been more than a job; it's been a playground of diverse and challenging projects. The trust placed in me to handle varied responsibilities has allowed me to stretch my capabilities, learn new skills, and contribute meaningfully to the success of the organization. 

Reflecting on my journey at IDP, a defining moment encapsulates my pride and fulfillment – leading the Rize Up Khotwa project in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge since last year. Spearheading this transformative government initiative with an exceptional team under the mentorship of IDP management, our Area Director Rashi Bhattacharya, and my office manager, Ferwen Tadesse, has been an immense honor. 

The success of the Rize Up Khotwa project is a testament to the power of collaboration. Working closely with the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, we've created a platform that not only facilitates educational opportunities but also fosters the growth and development of the next generation of leaders. I am immensely proud of our incredible team, who have dedicated their skills and passion to make the Rize Up Khotwa project a success by placing 600+ students successfully in various study destinations in the span of less than a year. Their hard work and commitment to making a positive impact on students' lives have truly set a standard for excellence. As I reflect on this milestone, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities and the trust placed in our team. The Rize Up Khotwa project represents the spirit of innovation and impact that defines IDP's commitment to shaping the future of education. As we celebrate these achievements, I am excited about the future. The Rize Up Khotwa project is just one example of how IDP continues to push boundaries, create meaningful change, and empower individuals to reach their full potential. 

My journey from a Multi-Destination Education Counsellor to the current role as a Destination Manager has been a trajectory of continuous learning and growth. Success, in this context, is not only climbing the professional ladder but also evolving into a leader who guides and inspires others to achieve and accomplish their goals and dreams, and that’s exactly what I aim for my team in this role. Each phase of my IDP journey has been a unique opportunity for growth. From navigating challenges to celebrating victories, the experiences have shaped not only my professional skills but also enriched my perspective on the impact of education on individuals and communities.   

As a leader, infusing meaning into my role goes beyond managing tasks. It's about inspiring my team to see the significance in their work, encouraging innovation, and fostering an environment where every team member feels their contribution matters. I am confident that with the amazing mentorship and support around me from my seniors, I will continue to thrive in my role and support my team members in pursuing personal and professional growth by offering them continuous training, mentorship, and opportunities for skill development as well. 

As I look back on this transformative journey with IDP, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities, challenges, and the unwavering support from colleagues and mentors. The beauty of the journey lies not only in the milestones achieved but in the continuous evolution, and I am excited about the chapters yet to unfold. 

Fun facts: 

I am a Cat mom and consider it more than a title; it's a daily dose of joy and comfort. After a full-on day at IDP, my home sweet home comes alive with the pitter-patter of tiny paws – that's Milo, my mischievous and utterly adorable furball. Milo's playful antics and cozy cuddles have this magical power to melt away the day's stress, turning every moment at home a delightful one. 

Adding color to life, this year also unfolded with international travels alongside my teenage son that laid the groundwork for his international education journey. From soaking in diverse cultures to indulging in delectable cuisines, and scouting university tours, these escapades have become the cornerstone of our unique Mother-Son Duo adventures. We plan to explore more countries together, attend university campus tours, and help my son make well-informed decisions about his academic pursuits in the coming years. The world is our classroom, and I'm thrilled to be both his guide and travel companion and feel proud in sharing my international education experiences from IDP even at home. 

Beyond the professional realm at IDP, these hobbies and moments of joy play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced life. It's about finding harmony between the challenges of work, the warmth and support of family, and the excitement of exploring new horizons. 

In essence, my journey at IDP isn't just a story; it’s a testament to growth, leadership, and the pursuit of meaningful success. Here's to more dreams crafted, teams led, and adventures embraced!" – Maryam Javid, Destination Manager (Canada and USA) in Abu Dhabi