Our Leadership
Meet The School Leaders
Running a school built from scratch around evidence takes a particular kind of leadership team. The Citizens leadership comprises the Senior Leadership Team, who run the school day to day, and the Board of Governors, who set the standards of education, child development, and venture building.
Senior Leadership Team
The Senior Leadership Team (SLT) runs Citizens day to day. They bring decades of experience across British, IB, and international education, and the conviction to build something different with it. The SLT shapes the curriculum, sets the academic standard, supports mentors, and holds the line on what learning at Citizens actually looks like.
David Lees
Principal
With a wealth of experience in education, David Lees joins us as Principal, bringing boundless enthusiasm and innovative ideas to the table.
Hailing from Suffolk and Essex, David has spent over two decades shaping the educational landscape as a senior leader. His journey includes pivotal roles such as Headteacher, Governor, and Chief Operating Officer, culminating in his recent tenure as Executive Principal in Essex.
Beyond his professional achievements, David is a dedicated family man, husband, and father. When he’s not immersed in educational endeavors, you’ll find him on the tennis court, golf course, or hitting the gym, showcasing his passion for sports and fitness.
David’s vision for Citizens is nothing short of inspiring. He’s committed to creating a learning environment that’s adaptive, personalised, and deeply connected to the real world—a place where every learner is empowered to achieve their fullest potential. With his leadership, we’re excited to see Citizens continue to flourish and evolve, shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Ursula Zeitouny
Managing Director of Operations
Ursula Zeitouny, originally from Brazil and later establishing roots in Lebanon, is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in hospitality management and education. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a specialized focus on Hospitality Management.
Ursula has had a diverse career and currently holds the position of Managing Director of Operations at Citizens School in Dubai, UAE steering the comprehensive operations of the school, overseeing admissions, marketing, IT, and procurement. Her dedication to effective communication has been instrumental in cultivating a positive and collaborative atmosphere within the institution.
Ursula’s journey includes impactful teaching experiences in Muscat, Oman, and Sharjah, UAE. Serving as a Kindergarten Teacher, she instructed in English, Arabic, and Math, leaving a positive impact on young minds. This teaching journey not only refined her linguistic skills but also instilled in her a profound appreciation for diverse cultures. She is committed to leveraging her diverse skills and rich experiences to make meaningful contributions to the fields of education.
Donal O’Callaghan
Vice Principal and Head of Secondary
Donal O’Callaghan, Vice Principal and Head of Secondary, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Citizens School. Having previously served as Senior Leader and Head of Secondary at a British Curriculum school in Sharjah, Donal is passionate about combining the best of British Curriculum with a real-world approach to learning.
With a background in research and development and experience teaching Geography, Biology, and Chemistry, Donal believes it’s vital for mentors to know their learners, understanding who they are, where they want to go, and what will motivate them to get there.
Beyond his professional career in education, Donal enjoys golf and playing rugby with the Sharjah Wanderers. He also loves to travel and experience different cultures, a passion he brings to his work with learners, ensuring everyone is heard and all are respected.
Donal is a dedicated educator committed to preparing learners to lead and inspire in the future. With a focus on learner empowerment, he’s looking forward to helping learners expand their horizons and reach their fullest potential.
Nagham Naamani
Vice Principal and Head of Primary
Nagham Naamani, Vice Principal at Citizens School, brings over 24 years of dedicated experience in education to our diverse community. Her journey in the world of education has seen her evolve from an English teacher to assuming various leadership roles, including Head of Department, Head of Primary School, and now, Vice Principal.
Nagham’s passion for personal development and lifelong learning led her to become a certified life coach, specializing in personal development and emotional intelligence. Her dedication to understanding how people think, behave, and interact has been a driving force in her career.
Nagham’s passion for personal development and lifelong learning led her to become a certified life coach, specializing in personal development and emotional intelligence. Her dedication to understanding how people think, behave, and interact has been a driving force in her career.
With academic qualifications in Political Studies and Public Administration, as well as a diploma in Educational Leadership, Nagham possesses a rich and diverse skill set. This enables her to mentor and lead individuals not only in educational settings but also in their personal and professional lives.
Beyond her professional life, Nagham is an avid reader, particularly drawn to self-help literature. During her free time, you can often find her cycling through the sunny streets of Dubai, engrossed in a self-help book by the beach, or cherishing moments with her family and friends.
Fareeha Nadkar
Director of Learning & Quality Assurance
With over 18 years experience and a strong background in educational leadership, Fareeha Nadkar, Director of Learning & Quality Assurance, is passionate in her belief that schools are more than just a place to learn. They are a child’s second home where they should feel safe, supported, and inspired.
With a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership and Management, and the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership, Fareeha began her career as a special needs teacher before advancing to the role of Inclusion Lead. She later transitioned to teaching Psychology and Economics, before taking on the role of Assistant Phase Head for Secondary and Deputy Head of Secondary, combining her classroom experience with leadership opportunities.
Fareeha is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of teaching and learning at Citizens. She is dedicated to monitoring educational practices, supporting mentors in their professional development, and leading the initiatives necessary to improve learner outcomes.
With a strong belief that there should be no ceiling on a learner’s potential, Fareeha is committed to providing the opportunities needed for growth, creativity, and collaboration. Outside of work, she loves to read and spend time with her family and friends.
Lucy Blanchard
Assistant Director of Learning and Project-Based Learning Leader
Now in her third year at Citizens School, Lucy Blanchard is a visionary leader and dynamic educator, known for blending innovation with a deep commitment to learner wellbeing. She began her Citizens journey as Head of Science and Year 4 Mentor, later stepping into the role of Curriculum Lead. Today, she serves in a dual capacity as Assistant Director of Learning and Project-Based Learning (PBL) Leader, while continuing to inspire in the classroom as Year 6 Science Specialist—a role that keeps her closely connected to learners’ day-to-day experiences.
Lucy has been instrumental in embedding PBL and design thinking into every corner of the curriculum, partnering with subject specialists to create rich, integrated learning experiences that develop adaptable skills, creativity, and future-ready mindsets. Her expertise in curriculum design and educational strategy is always anchored in a child-centred philosophy, ensuring every learner’s strengths, passions, and wellbeing remain at the heart of their growth.
Beyond the classroom, Lucy leads by example. A passionate triathlete, she models perseverance and resilience through competition. She is also the founder of a children’s charity and a devoted admirer of the UAE, embracing and championing its rich cultural values.
Board of Governors
The Board of Governors sets the standards Citizens School is held to. They bring vision and expertise across education, child development, and venture building, and an active role in shaping the school’s long-term direction. The Board reviews academic and operational performance, approves strategic planning, and ensures Citizens stays true to the vision it was built on.
Dr. Adil Alzarooni
Chairman and Founder
Dr. Adil Alzarooni, a prominent Emirati leader with over 22 years of executive management experience, holds key directorship positions in diverse sectors, including healthcare, education, finance, logistics, media, technology, FMCG, and real estate.
Operating two family offices and a venture studio, he is not only a seasoned entrepreneur but also a passionate educator and compelling public speaker.
With degrees from the Etisalat College of Engineering, the American University of Sharjah, and the British University in Dubai, Dr. Alzarooni is a co-author and author of “Economic Zones: The Essentials” and “Sustaining Family Businesses: The Essentials,” respectively.
Dr. Amani Batakji Chazy
Academic Governor
Dr. Amani Batakji Chazy is a distinguished Education Policy Expert, Researcher, and Advisor with over 20 years of experience in educational leadership, policy formulation, quality assurance, and curriculum development. Currently, she serves as the Education Policies Expert and Advisor to Her Excellency the Secretary General of the Education and Human Resources Council, Federal Government of the UAE.
Previously, Dr. Chazy was an Education Expert and Senior Bilingual Inspector at Dubai Knowledge, Government of Dubai, where she oversaw quality assurance, research for development and regulation, policy implementation, and educational project management.
Academically, she holds a doctoral degree in education policies and research, achieved while working full-time. Post-graduation, she has continued her research endeavors, publishing three manuscripts in double-blind international reviewed journals.
Her areas of expertise include educational policy development, strategic planning, leadership and management in educational settings, quality assurance, curriculum design, and educational research. Dr. Chazy is also skilled in higher education teaching, teacher preparation, language-policy planning, school leadership, and literacy curriculum review.
With a strong commitment to driving educational excellence and innovation globally, Dr. Amani Batakji Chazy leverages her extensive experience to foster progressive transformation in education.
Kabeen Khadar
Parent Governor
Kabeen Khadar, an Executive Director at Euroblast Middle East, holds over two decades of experience managing businesses and projects.
A second-generation entrepreneur with a robust background in oil & gas, hospitality, and IT-visual technology, he has been the driving force behind Euroblast Middle East, specialising in surface preparation and coating for prestigious projects in oil & gas, shipbuilding, repairs, and construction.
Kabeen’s strategic vision and professionalism have not only expanded the group’s portfolio through acquisitions in the UK but also made a lasting impact in the hospitality industry with The Poovar Island Resort alongside his father, Kabeer Khader.
Emily Konstansas
Safeguarding Governor
Emily Konstantas, the Global Founder and CEO of The Safeguarding Alliance, is dedicated to ensuring the safety of children and adults at risk worldwide.
With a focus on raising standards and professionalising the safeguarding sector, Emily passionately advocates for a global culture of safeguarding excellence.
Her academic background includes a Bachelor’s, Master’s in Law, and ongoing pursuit of a PhD in International Child Protection Law, and her impactful contributions to safeguarding legislation in the UK, including the advocacy for Della’s Law, have made her a recognised figure on national and international platforms.
Cheryl Christina Pavitt
Inclusion Governor
Cheryl Pavitt, the Inclusion Governor at Citizens School and an Inclusion Governor for a school in the UK, is deeply committed to creating an educational environment where every student is supported and valued. With over 25 years of experience as a behaviour analyst, school leader, education advisor, and early intervention practitioner, Cheryl has worked with countless schools, hundreds of families, and thousands of children across the UAE and UK.
Her extensive experience and powerful collaborations have established best-practice benchmarks across various inclusive education provisions and intervention models. Cheryl’s work reflects her dedication to ensuring that every child receives the support they need to succeed.
Cheryl’s deep understanding of parenthood challenges, combined with her insight into children’s lives and her expertise, continues to inspire meaningful change, leaving a lasting impact on the communities she serves.
Kim Popratnjak, MBE
Education Standards Governor
A highly focused and motivated educational practitioner, Kim Popratnjak has dedicated her career to the development and growth of students, regardless of background. With a passion for teaching cultivated from a young age, she earned a degree with honours and a Master’s degree, progressing through various leadership roles, including Head of Department, Head of Faculty, and Deputy Head.
Recognised for transforming a school from low-ranking to top 6%, Kim was awarded an MBE for services to education, showcasing her dedication, hard work, and success.
Described as a positive, driven, and student-centered leader, Kim brings a wealth of experience to her role, embracing new challenges with a clear vision for creative and future-thinking education.
Ismail Zorob
Finance and Operations Governor
Passionate about transforming education through impact and innovation, Ismail brings a rare blend of startup agility, large-scale school operations, and public policy expertise. As Co-Founder of Edways, he is reimagining how families engage with schools, beginning with admissions, to make access to education more transparent and seamless.
Previously, Ismail served as CFO and a founding leader at one of the UAE’s most respected education operators, where he successfully scaled a portfolio of schools and nurseries, while building a robust shared-services model. He also contributed to national public–private partnership initiatives aimed at improving public schools’ performance.
At Citizens, Ismail plays a pivotal role in ensuring strong financial stewardship, efficient operations, and data-driven decision-making. His guidance directly supports the school’s mission to develop entrepreneurship, sustainability, digital literacy, wellbeing, and lifelong learning as core pillars of education.
At Citizens, Ismail plays a pivotal role in ensuring strong financial stewardship, efficient operations, and data-driven decision-making. His guidance directly supports the school’s mission to develop entrepreneurship, sustainability, digital literacy, wellbeing, and lifelong learning as core pillars of education.
Hind El Aoufi
Wellbeing Governor
Hind El Aoufi, an innovation and digital culture leader, has over 17 years of experience in strategy and management consulting, spanning Europe, the Middle East, and Australia.
As the leader of GHD’s D-Lab practice in EMEA, she drives innovation strategy, applied innovation, and cultural change, particularly focusing on digital transformation for the C-suite.
Hind is also a Co-Founder and co-CEO of youforher, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering women and protecting the planet, showcasing her commitment to holistic impact across people, planet, and profit.
Dr. Shaima AlHarmoodi
Emirati Culture and Innovation Governor
Dr. Shaima AlHarmoodi, is a distinguished academic, researcher, and innovator who champions the integration of UAE culture, values, and innovation in education. With over 15 years of experience in higher education, she serves as an Associate Professor at Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University, where she teaches and leads initiatives in project management, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
As a Certified External Reviewer for the UAE Ministry of Education, Dr. Shaima has contributed to strengthening academic quality across institutions while ensuring alignment with national educational priorities. She has guided hundreds of startups, coordinated nationwide entrepreneurship competitions, and partnered with leading organisations such as the Dubai Future Foundation to nurture young innovators.
Deeply committed to cultural identity and youth empowerment, Dr. Shaima uses her academic and professional expertise to instill pride in Emirati heritage while equipping learners with the creativity, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial skills needed to thrive globally. Her dedication ensures that Citizens School learners not only succeed academically but also grow as culturally grounded, future-ready leaders.
Dr. Terence McAdams
Innovation Governor
Dr Terence McAdams is an experienced educational leader with a background in technology integration, curriculum development, and school innovation. Most recently, he has served as Vice Principal at Citizens School, focusing on digital literacy, problem-based learning, and enhancing teaching standards through interdisciplinary programmes.
In a prior senior leadership role, he led the development of award-winning programmes, including a machine learning initiative shortlisted for the 2022 ISC Digital Technology in Learning Award, and was instrumental in his school winning the ISC International School of the Year 2021. Additionally, he is an International Baccalaureate consultant, curriculum developer, and examination paper author, specialising in Computer Science.
With a Doctorate in Education, his research and publications emphasise the intersection of technology and pedagogy. Dr McAdams is also an accomplished presenter at international educational conferences and has authored several technical and educational texts.
Founder’s Message
A warm welcome to the prospective families of Citizens School!
It’s with immense pride and gratitude that I invite you to join us on this transformative educational journey we have embarked upon in the heart of Dubai.
The vision for Citizens School was born out of a deep desire to redefine the way we approach education, ensuring it aligns with the future’s ever-evolving demands.
Our commitment at Citizens is more than just providing textbook knowledge. It’s about cultivating a mindset that thrives in uncertainty, adapts to challenges, and seizes opportunities. Our children not just “students”, but lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and most importantly, responsible citizens of the world.
With the collaboration of our devoted team of mentors, we are on a mission to ensure our children are equipped with the tools they need to face tomorrow’s world. We emphasise hands-on learning, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit, all essential ingredients for success.
We thank you for entrusting us with your child’s future. Together, we will create a legacy of innovation, resilience, and excellence for generations to come.
Dr. Adil Alzarooni
Founder, Citizens School
Meet the Principal
With a wealth of experience in education, David Lees joins us as Principal, bringing boundless enthusiasm and innovative ideas to the table.
Hailing from Suffolk and Essex, David has spent over two decades shaping the educational landscape as a senior leader. His journey includes pivotal roles such as Headteacher, Governor, and Chief Operating Officer, culminating in his recent tenure as Executive Principal in Essex.
Beyond his professional achievements, David is a dedicated family man, husband, and father. When he’s not immersed in educational endeavors, you’ll find him on the tennis court, golf course, or hitting the gym, showcasing his passion for sports and fitness.
David’s vision for Citizens is nothing short of inspiring. He’s committed to creating a learning environment that’s adaptive, personalised, and deeply connected to the real world—a place where every learner is empowered to achieve their fullest potential. With his leadership, we’re excited to see Citizens continue to flourish and evolve, shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
David Lees
Principal, Citizens School