A Journey of Love and Understanding

A Catholic priest, a Nazi & a gay guy are walking…

You might think it is the beginning of a joke. In fact, it is the story of my life. They are real people, on the journey to find their own path. I met these wonderful individuals while walking the Camino de Santiago. In the most unexpected ways, I discovered love on my own path. Not just in romantic terms, but in how I perceive and appreciate people beyond their labels.

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Finding My Path as an Educator

This experience led me to become a teacher, specifically in vocational studies. What I cherish most about teaching is the opportunity to see young people for who they truly are. Looking beyond the labels they carry with them. I have a particular affinity for students dealing with inner struggles. Those who are often too intelligent for their surroundings, feeling bored and like a failure. They are regularly blamed for circumstances beyond their control, leading to disengagement from classes and ultimately dropping out. Yet, with so many talents hidden inside, they might surprise themselves.

The Inspiring Journey of Giomero

Allow me to introduce you to one of my former students: Giomero, also known as Gio. At the beginning of my teaching career five years ago, I had the pleasure of being his mentor and teacher. Our year began with an inspiring trip to Antwerp.? As International Business Studies students, Gio and his classmates were tasked with helping an NGO improve its sales strategy. Gio excelled in this challenge.

A few words to describe Gio:

• He was incredibly sociable, always including everyone in light-hearted conversations.
• He craved intellectual discussions.
• He had a passion for creating music.
• He was friendly and polite.

However, these same qualities led to complaints from some colleagues:

• "He interrupts my classes."
• "He won’t stop chatting."
• "He distracts other students."
• "He can’t sit still for 30 seconds."

While these statements were true, they only scratched the surface. Gio was a young man bursting with passion for people and music. After several conversations with him and his mother, it became clear that he was struggling. His mother was desperate to see her son happy and thriving. Gio quit his studies.

At that time, I envisioned Gio becoming a famous musician or producer. Apparently, I was not far off. Gio was on that path. But when passion turned into work, music became less interesting. Instead, Gio decided to invest his earnings into starting his own marketing firm, “Unnamed Project”, building it from the ground up.

A Full Circle Moment

Last week, Gio returned to my classroom as a guest lecturer. He shared insights about his life journey, introduced negotiation techniques, presented a challenging assignment, and facilitated engaging class discussions. Today, he is on track at Harvard Extension School, while successfully running his company, and giving back by tutoring primary school kids.

I couldn’t help but smile as I watched him interact with students who reminded me of his younger self. Thank you, Gio, for being an inspiration and showing us all the importance of authenticity in education. If you can capture the attention of 30 students on a Friday afternoon, you are a born teacher!

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Embracing Change

Five years ago, I made the switch from entrepreneur to educator. Was it easy? Absolutely not. But it has been incredibly rewarding. If you feel inspired to make a difference in students’ lives, consider guest lecturing at a local college. Or reach out to me for opportunities at my classes at Zadkine Business College.

If you're interested in becoming a teacher yourself, we are still looking for passionate colleagues at Zadkine, Vacatures - Werken bij (werkenbijzadkine.nl). You might also explore opportunities at nearby institutions or through platforms like MeesterBaan, Onderwijs Vacatures | MeesterBaan.?

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P.S. I could have added the Witch, the Flying Dutchmen, or the German girl to my opening line. I love and remember you all.