Welcome to the tenth episode of DisruptEd, offering a look into the future of education, in conversations with experts discussing research and real-world applications. The podcast, produced by Citizens School explores how breakthroughs in learning and teaching are shaping the way we prepare learners for the future.
In this episode, Dr. Adil speaks with Nadia Zaal — an Emirati entrepreneur, real estate innovator, and founder of Zaya Early Learning.
Together, they explore the ideas shaping the future of education and the lessons Nadia has carried from business into the classroom. Nadia shares her journey from real estate to early childhood education, highlighting how nature-focused, sustainable design transforms learning. She discusses why resilience and grit are as vital as academics, and explores how AI and new models could shape the future of schools and work. Her story underscores the importance of nurturing the whole child—physically, emotionally, and intellectually—while rethinking traditional education for today’s learners.
Welcome to the ninth episode of DisruptEd, offering a look into the future of education, in conversations with experts discussing research and real-world applications. The podcast, produced by Citizens School explores how breakthroughs in learning and teaching are shaping the way we prepare learners for the future.
In this episode, Dr. Adil speaks with Rana Nawas — corporate strategist, consultant, podcaster, and advocate for women’s empowerment — to explore resilience, equality, and the future of education.
They discuss why resilience is key to success, how schools and parents can foster equality, the link between gender diversity and productivity, and how education must evolve for today’s generation.
The conversation highlights the need to diversify leadership models and redefine success — reminding us that gender should never limit ambition, and education must prepare every learner for the future.
Welcome to the eighth episode of DisruptEd, offering a look into the future of education, in conversations with experts discussing research and real-world applications. The podcast, produced by Citizens School explores how breakthroughs in learning and teaching are shaping the way we prepare learners for the future.
DisruptEd is hosted by Dr. Adil Alzarooni, a serial entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and founder of Citizens School.
In this episode, Dr. Adil speaks with Makram Hani, Founder and CEO of Arms & McGregor International Realty and Regional Chair of FIBREE. In this episode, Dr. Adil Alzarooni along with Makram explore why entrepreneurship should start well before university. In a world that’s constantly changing, early exposure to real-world challenges, creative thinking, and calculated risk-taking is key to developing future-ready mindsets. At Citizens School, learners are encouraged to pitch ideas, take initiative, and gain hands-on experience. The result? Young people who don’t just dream — but lead, adapt, and thrive, no matter what path they choose.
Welcome to the seventh episode of DisruptEd, offering a look into the future of education, in conversations with experts discussing research and real-world applications. The podcast, produced by Citizens School explores how breakthroughs in learning and teaching are shaping the way we prepare learners for the future.
DisruptEd is hosted by Dr. Adil Alzarooni, a serial entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and founder of Citizens School.
In this episode, Dr. Adil speaks with Rana Akkad, Founder of Jad’s Inclusion. In a powerful conversation about the unseen challenges families of children with special needs face daily — from navigating diagnoses to everyday outings. Rana questions the assumption that mainstreaming equals inclusion, sharing the reality that without personalised support, “sometimes it’s just the most expensive lunchbox.” True inclusion, she explains, requires trained mentors, Individualised Education Plans (IEPs), and environments where every child can meaningfully participate — even if only for a few hours a day.
Welcome to the sixth episode of DisruptEd, offering a look into the future of education, in conversations with experts discussing research and real-world applications. The podcast, produced by Citizens School explores how breakthroughs in learning and teaching are shaping the way we prepare learners for the future.
DisruptEd is hosted by Dr. Adil Alzarooni, a serial entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and founder of Citizens School.
In this episode, Dr. Adil speaks with Kabeen Khadar. A successful entrepreneur, active angel investor, and one of the founding parents of Citizens School, Kabeen is a champion of Citizens’ entrepreneurship curriculum.
Their conversation explores the journey of an entrepreneur, the future of education, and the importance of embracing cutting-edge technologies.
Listen or Watch Now
Listen or watch the episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform. As this is a new podcast, we appreciate your feedback and ideas on who to interview next.
Welcome to the fifth episode of DisruptEd, offering a look into the future of education, in conversations with experts discussing research and real-world applications.
The podcast, produced by Citizens School explores how breakthroughs in learning and teaching are shaping the way we prepare learners for the future.
DisruptEd is hosted by Dr. Adil Alzarooni, a serial entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and founder of Citizens School.
In this episode, Dr. Adil speaks with Dr. Mohamad Hamade, a recognised thought leader in the healthcare and finance space. As the Founder and CEO of Lumio Capital, Dr. Hamade is a huge proponent for advanced technologies being used in education.
Their conversation covers a wide range of topics including virtual reality, personalised healthcare, and the importance of experiential learning.
Listen or Watch Now
Listen or watch the episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform. As this is a new podcast, we appreciate your feedback and ideas on who to interview next.
Welcome to the fourth episode of DisruptEd, offering a look into the future of education, in conversations with experts discussing research and real-world applications. The podcast, produced by Citizens School explores how breakthroughs in learning and teaching are shaping the way we prepare learners for the future.
DisruptEd is hosted by Dr. Adil Alzarooni, a serial entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and founder of Citizens School.
In this episode, Dr. Adil speaks with Nouhad Doughan, the Owner and Managing Director of Kids Spot Nursery (KSN) in Dubai and Board Member of Business Nursery Group. Nouhad walks us through leaving a successful marketing career to open her first nursery 11 years ago. With a passion for early childhood education and a commitment to high-quality and individual care, KSN has grown to 3 nurseries operating in the UAE. Their conversation covers the significance of teaching entrepreneurship, instilling values, managing diversity, and the importance of the first five years in a child’s education journey.
Listen or Watch Now
Listen or watch the episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform. As this is a new podcast, we appreciate your feedback and ideas on who to interview next.
To connect with Dr. Adil, please follow the links below.
Welcome to the third episode of DisruptEd, offering a look into the future of education, in conversations with experts discussing research and real-world applications. The podcast, produced by Citizens School explores how breakthroughs in learning and teaching are shaping the way we prepare learners for the future.
DisruptEd is hosted by Dr. Adil Alzarooni, a serial entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and founder of Citizens School.
In this episode, Dr. Adil speaks with Samer Hamadeh, a seasoned entrepreneur in the F&B and entertainment industries. Samer shares how his unconventional career journey – from launching creative nightlife concepts like Stereo Arcade to founding the award-winning Akiba Dori – was shaped by personal passion, risk-taking, and a desire for freedom.
Their conversation dives into redefining success, embracing failure, and how today’s education can nurture entrepreneurial thinking and future-ready mindsets.
Listen or Watch Now
Listen or watch the episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform. As this is a new podcast, we appreciate your feedback and ideas on who to interview next.
To connect with Dr. Adil, please follow the links below.
Welcome to the second episode of DisruptEd, where we explore the future of education through expert conversations on research and real-world applications. Produced by Citizens School, this podcast examines how advancements in learning and teaching are shaping how we prepare learners for tomorrow.
DisruptEd is hosted by Dr. Adil Alzarooni, a serial entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and founder of Citizens School.
In this episode, Founder Dr. Adil Alzarooni sits down with Talib Hashim, Managing Director of TBH Consultancy and a leader in Emiratisation. Together, they dive into the shift from employment to empowerment, the evolving UAE job market, and why preparing Emiratis for entrepreneurship and private sector roles is vital for the nation’s future.
DisruptEd brings you insights into the future of education and entrepreneurship, featuring in-depth conversations with experts on the latest research and real-world applications.
Tune in now to hear how Citizens School and thought leaders like Dr. Adil are reshaping the future of learning. 🎙️
Topics covered
[00:00] Introduction of Talib Hashim and his Emiratisation efforts. [01:27] Talib’s shift from employment to empowerment of local talent. [02:56] Talib’s transition from headhunting to entrepreneurship in advisory services. [04:51] Changing attitudes towards government and private sector jobs. [06:17] Influence of family and societal expectations on youth career decisions. [09:09] The changing public sector job market and its impact on youth job preferences. [10:33] Historical context of Emirati preferences for public sector employment. [12:55] The value placed on government jobs for stability and retirement. [17:26] The challenges and impacts of Emiratization quotas in the private sector. [21:13] A renewed focus on value creation in Emirati hires, beyond quotas. [26:06] Enhancing the education system to prepare students for the private sector. [28:56] Employer feedback on recent graduates. [39:08] Challenges and opportunities of fostering entrepreneurship in Emiratis. [56:06] The importance of educating families to support diverse career paths for Emiratis.
Listen or Watch Now
Listen or watch the episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform. As this is a new podcast, we appreciate your feedback and ideas on who to interview next.
To connect with Dr. Adil or Talib, please follow the links below.
Welcome to the first episode of DisruptEd, offering a look into the future of education, in conversations with experts discussing research and real-world applications. The podcast, produced by Citizens School, explores how breakthroughs in learning and teaching are shaping the way we prepare learners for the future.
DisruptEd is hosted by Dr. Adil Alzarooni, a serial entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and founder of Citizens School.
In this first episode, Dr. Alzarooni sits down with Raya Bidshahri, the founder and CEO of the School of Humanity, an innovative online high school that is redefining education for the 21st century. Their discussion focuses on how reimagining education can empower the next generation, highlighting the importance of adaptability, critical thinking, and lifelong learning in shaping a brighter future for all.
Topics Covered
[00:45] Introduction of Raya Bidshahri and the School of Humanity. [01:33] Raya’s background and journey into education. [03:04] Inspiration from alternative schools and their impact. [05:10] Issues with the current curriculum and teaching methods. [07:13] The industrialisation of education and its impact on society. [10:19] The need for continuous learning and reskilling. [12:18] The importance of first principles thinking in education. [15:48] The digital experience at the School of Humanity. [17:51] The concept of ikigai and its role in education. [22:06] Licensing and regulatory challenges for online schools. [26:26] Acceptance of alternative school graduates in top universities. [31:12] Preparing students for the entrepreneurial lifestyle. [35:09] The importance of innovative education for the region. [39:08] Raya’s personal failures and lessons learned.
Listen or Watch Now
Listen or watch the episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform. As this is a new podcast, we appreciate your feedback and ideas on who to interview next.
To connect with Dr. Adil or Raya, please follow the links below.
