Shamma Al Naqbi

College: Ras Al Khaimah Women's College

“Here I am — this is me — there’s nowhere else on earth I’d rather be.”

I can identify with Bryan Adam’s lyrics now, but I wasn’t exactly singing the same tune a few years ago till I joined RKWC.

My name is Shamma Hamdoon Al Naqbi. I graduated from the Bachelor of Education programme (English Language Teaching in Schools) with distinction. After graduating I completed 6 months working at RKWC as a teacher in training as the winner of the Star Graduate award, and since I received the highest grade point average from the whole HCT system, I was nominated for a scholarship award to continue my master’s degree at Melbourne University in Australia (TESOL).

My five years at RKWC have shown me that working hard is not an option, but a necessity in order to succeed in all areas of life. Life can be challenging, but it is up to us, to put forth effort, and reach out for opportunities that are out there.

When I was young I always dreamt of becoming a teacher. I actually wanted to be a teacher because of Mrs. Mouza, my fantastic Year 3 teacher when I was at primary school. Her lessons were hilariously fun. My strongest memory is learning speed reading with her; she’d put stuff up on the projector and go faster and faster and faster. We loved it. So, I really knew I’d be a teacher from the age of eight.

Joining RKWC Education department in 2003 allowed me to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher.

During the five years I spent as a student I learnt many skills that empower me in all kinds of ways to be more in control of my life’s logistics. The critical thinking and reasoning skills I learnt in college will stay with me for a lifetime. Most importantly I learnt that the joy of giving is incredible.

This year will be my 5th year as a full-time teacher at RKWC. I am very happy to be part of this amazing institute. Moreover, it is a privilege to act as a role model for the other students at RKWC. For me, being a teacher at RKWC gives a lifetime of pride to me, my family, and my friends.

To all my sisters and brothers at HCT I say to achieve your dreams you should have desire. If you have that, and are willing to act, as well as dream, anything is possible. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.