Dubai Conference 2018

It is because of Sunny Varkey and his Foundation that this entire conference and Global Teacher Prize exists in the first place. There is no other conference like it on the planet.

The GESF is held at the Atlantis resort, on the Dubai Palm.

This is most of the teachers in attendance, from some 40 or so countries. We had a desert excursion and sped over the dunes.

Up early to start each day with a quick run.

Good friends on the Advisory Board, who helped put together the 2-day teacher summit. We represent (from left to right, back row first): South Africa, USA, Australia, Malawi, Venezuela, Mexico, USA, and Morocco.

Had a private meeting with the USA contingent about violence in schools.

A highlight - three Parkland students were flown in to surprise the conference. They spoke about the tragedy, from only one month prior, to well over 2000 international delegates, with presidents, royalty, Al Gore, and many more in the front rows. It was an honor for me to be on a public briefing panel with Lewis Mizen (3rd from left) about violence in American schools. Also pictured, Kevin Trejos and Suzanna Barna. We are there to support them in any efforts the #NeverAgain (@NeverAgainMSD) movement (https://www.facebook.com/NeverAgainMSD/) seeks!

The conference ends with the announcement of this year's Global Teacher Prize winner: Andria Zafirakou, of Great Britain (London)!!