Our Team

Mrs Shakuntala Mankani
Founder

Mrs Shakuntala Mankani is the Founder of Jumeirah International Nurseries and played an instrumental role in establishing the schools within Fortes Education. 

An educator at heart, her career has spanned classroom teaching, school leadership and early years development. Since founding Jumeirah International Nurseries in 1981, she has remained guided by one clear belief: every child should be given the care, encouragement and opportunities they need to realise their potential. 

Her experience has helped shape the practical and child-centred approaches used across our nurseries today. She continues to work closely with nursery leaders, educators, children and families to strengthen the quality of teaching, learning and care across every location. 

Her vision remains central to Jumeirah International Nurseries: to create places where children feel secure, valued and inspired to learn. 

Read more about Mrs Shakuntala Mankani’s life and work in her interview with Gulf News here.

Mrs Katrina Mankani
Director of Positive Education & Innovation
Managing Director, Jumeirah International Nurseries

Mrs Katrina Mankani is the Managing Director of Jumeirah International Nurseries and leads its educational vision, strategic development and continued growth. 

Her journey in early childhood education began in the classroom at Jumeirah International Nurseries, first as a teaching assistant and later as a nursery teacher and leader. Those early years spent closely observing, teaching and caring for young children continue to shape the way she leads today. 

Mrs Katrina’s approach begins with understanding the child. She believes that behaviour is a form of communication and that, before trying to correct a child, adults should pause to consider what the child may be feeling, experiencing or trying to express. 

This perspective guides her work with educators and families. She encourages them to look beyond immediate behaviour and build the relationships, routines and environments that help children feel safe, understood and ready to learn. 

After teaching at Jumeirah International Nurseries, Mrs Katrina moved to Regent International School, where she led the integration of the Education in Human Values programme. She later returned to early childhood education, bringing together her experience in teaching, leadership, values-based education and child development. 

Since 2016, she has led Positive Education across Fortes Education, helping embed wellbeing, emotional intelligence, resilience, character strengths and meaningful relationships into everyday teaching and learning. Her work reflects the belief that academic development and emotional wellbeing should never be treated as separate parts of a child’s education. 

Mrs Katrina holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Moscow State University, a PGCE from the University of Sunderland and a Master of Education in Private School Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University. She has also completed executive education in global leadership at Harvard Kennedy School. 

She is a regular speaker and contributor on early childhood education, Positive Education, leadership and purpose-led growth. Her work has been recognised by Entrepreneur Middle East, including features in Big Goals, Bold Choices, The 100 and 50 Visionary Women. 

Her leadership is guided by a simple question: 

Are we creating an environment in which every child feels known, capable and ready to grow? 

Featured Articles and Conversations 

Explore Mrs Katrina Mankani’s perspectives on early childhood education, Positive Education and purpose-led leadership: 

• Big Goals, Bold Choices — Entrepreneur Middle East 

• The 100: A Definitive Guide to Success — Entrepreneur Middle East 

• 50 Visionary Women — Entrepreneur Middle East 

• Inspiring Women in Education — WhichSchoolAdvisor 

• Positive Education: The Foundation at Jumeirah International Nurseries — QTheVoices Podcast 

In her QTheVoices podcast conversation, published on 7 April 2026, Mrs Katrina discusses how Positive Education can become part of everyday nursery life. She shares practical ways educators can help young children develop confidence, curiosity, resilience and a lasting love of learning. 

Mrs Samina Khanyari
General Manager

Mrs Samina Khanyari is the General Manager of Jumeirah International Nurseries.

Her core belief that every child deserves the best start in life has guided her accomplished career in early childhood education. With more than 20 years of experience in the early years sector, Mrs Samina Khanyari is an exceptional educator whose strong leadership, experience and determination continue to support the vision of the organisation.

A dynamic and inspiring leader, Mrs Samina Khanyari oversees the academic provision and operations of Jumeirah International Nurseries. She manages a large team of senior leaders, educators and practitioners, while working closely with international education professionals across Fortes Education.

Mrs Samina Khanyari ensures that our approach to early childhood education remains informed by the latest research, evidence and best practice from around the world.

She has played a leading role in establishing Jumeirah International Nurseries as one of the UAE’s most trusted early childhood education providers. Her hands-on approach enables her to build meaningful relationships with children, parents and colleagues, inspiring each team to deliver outstanding education and the highest standards of care.

Through her passion, determination and strategic outlook, Mrs Samina Khanyari continually strives to achieve the best possible outcomes for the children and families of Jumeirah International Nurseries. She also works tirelessly across Fortes Education to strengthen early years provision and improve outcomes for young children.

Mrs Samina Khanyari holds two Master’s degrees: an MSc in Educational Leadership from the University of Leicester in the UK and an MBA with a specialisation in Management.

Read Mrs Samina Khanyari’s expert advice on school readiness in her feature with WhichSchoolAdvisor here.

Mrs Amira Salem
Head of Curriculum

Mrs Amira Salem is the Head of Curriculum at Jumeirah International Nurseries.

She has more than 15 years of experience in early years education, both locally and internationally.

Mrs Amira Salem holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, a Master’s degree in TESOL and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education.

She has lived in Dubai for 13 years with her two daughters, who remain her greatest inspiration. Working with children has always motivated her, and she is passionate about creating positive learning environments that help them become independent, confident and globally minded individuals.

In her free time, Mrs Amira Salem enjoys spending time in nature, visiting the beach, camping and hiking with her family. She also enjoys attending ballet performances, reading and travelling.

She is committed to creating an engaging and inclusive learning environment in which every child and family feels welcome, supported and valued.

Ms Grace Thorpe
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries at Regent International School, The Greens

Ms Grace Thorpe is the Head of Early Years at Jumeirah International Nurseries, located within the campus of Regent International School in The Greens.

Ms Grace Thorpe began her career in early years education in the United Kingdom, where she gained Level 2 and Level 3 CACHE NVQ qualifications in Childcare, Learning and Development. She later completed a Level 3 qualification in Management and a Level 3 CACHE NVQ in Playwork.

She further developed her teaching and leadership expertise by completing an IPC Level 5 qualification in Leadership and Management for Early Childhood Settings.

Ms Grace Thorpe has lived in Dubai for 10 years and is now celebrating her eighth year as part of the Jumeirah International Nurseries team.

In her spare time, she enjoys playing sport, with hockey being a particular passion. She also enjoys swimming, reading and travelling.

Ms Grace Thorpe believes in creating a supportive, stimulating and enriching environment in which children can learn, grow and thrive. By promoting individualised learning, respect for diversity, collaboration and self-esteem, she helps children develop the skills, confidence and attitudes they need to succeed at school and beyond.

Mrs Jedine Hitzeroth
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries, Al Safa

Mrs Jedine Hitzeroth is the Head of Early Years at Jumeirah International Nurseries in Al Safa.

She has lived in Dubai for more than 22 years and has long been passionate about supporting children’s development in ways that reflect their individual needs, interests and abilities. She began her professional journey by studying child psychology and special educational needs.

Driven by a desire to work directly with children in educational settings, Mrs Jedine Hitzeroth completed a CACHE Level 3 qualification. This led her to work as both a special educational needs teacher and a classroom teacher in mainstream schools.

Her commitment to professional development did not stop there. Alongside her passion for teaching, Mrs Jedine Hitzeroth developed a strong interest in mentoring and supporting educators. She went on to complete a CACHE Level 5 qualification in Leadership and later qualified as a trainer, assessor and Internal Quality Assurer for CACHE teaching and leadership qualifications.

For six years, she played a key role in establishing and managing a training centre in Dubai, where she supported the professional development of young adults, teachers and education staff.

Today, at Jumeirah International Nurseries in Al Safa, Mrs Jedine Hitzeroth brings together her two greatest passions: nurturing children and developing educators.

She believes that every child is unique and that a strong learning environment, supported by close partnerships with parents, is essential to each child’s progress. She is continually exploring new ideas and approaches to enrich children’s experiences, strengthen their learning and help them thrive.

In her spare time Jedine enjoys camping and walking her dog. 

Ms Jeanne Nel
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries, Al Safa

Ms Jeanne Nel is the Head of Early Years at Jumeirah International Nurseries, Al Safa for the Autumn Term.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), and has several years of experience working in Early Years education within a British curriculum nursery in Dubai.

Throughout her career, Ms Jeanne has been passionate about creating a safe, happy and nurturing environment where every child feels valued and supported to learn, grow and reach their full potential. She believes that strong, trusting relationships between children, families and educators are at the heart of a successful nursery experience.

Ms Jeanne will work closely with families and support the nursery team to ensure that every child receives the highest standard of care and education. Her leadership approach is centred on kindness, teamwork and open communication, with the children’s wellbeing and best interests guiding every decision.

Ms Jeanne is proud to be part of the Jumeirah International Nurseries family and looks forward to welcoming children and their families to the Al Safa community.

A Little More About Ms Jeanne

She enjoys: Camping, travelling and exploring the UAE
Her leadership values: Kindness, teamwork and open communication
Her passion: Creating a nurturing environment where every child can thrive

Mrs Namrata Nayar
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries, Downtown Dubai

Mrs Namrata Nayar is the Head of Early Years at Jumeirah International Nurseries in Downtown Dubai.

She has more than 20 years of experience in early years education and has been part of the Jumeirah International Nurseries family for 11 years. Mrs Namrata Nayar holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in International Politics, as well as a Bachelor of Education.

Teaching is her passion and true calling. She strongly believes in the important role nurseries play in laying secure foundations for every child and giving them the opportunity to realise their full potential. She also advocates for strong partnerships between families and the nursery.

Mrs Namrata Nayar believes that early education should provide children with a stimulating, motivating and safe environment. Her goal is to create a positive learning and working culture in which her team understands the needs of every child and family and responds to them with care.

Her motto, “Challenging to achieve”, is brought to life in the classroom every day.

Mrs Philippa Wallace
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries at Sunmarke School, JVT

Mrs Philippa Wallace is the Head of Early Years at Jumeirah International Nurseries, located within the campus of Sunmarke School in JVT.

She has more than 18 years of experience in early years education and has been part of the Fortes Education leadership team for seven years, including serving as a Curriculum Coordinator.

Mrs Philippa Wallace holds a CACHE Level 3 qualification in Early Years and a CACHE Level 5 qualification in Leadership. She draws on her extensive knowledge of educational best practice to ensure that the curriculum is delivered to the highest standard.

Teaching has always been one of her greatest passions, and she is guided by the belief that children learn best when they are actively involved in meaningful experiences.

Mrs Philippa Wallace loves watching children grow and develop holistically within rich, experiential learning environments. She also believes that strong partnerships with parents are an essential part of every child’s learning journey.

In her spare time, she enjoys singing, dancing and reading, as well as spending time with her three children.

Ms Melissa Hanna
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries, Ghoroob, Mirdif

Ms Melissa Hanna is the Head of Early Years at Jumeirah International Nurseries in Ghoroob, Mirdif.

She holds a CACHE Level 5 qualification in Early Years Management and Leadership, as well as a Master’s degree in Human Resources.

As a passionate early years educator and a mother of two, Ms Melissa Hanna is deeply committed to nurturing young minds and supporting every child’s development.

Over the past five years, she has held leadership roles in early years education, guided by a clear purpose: to ensure that every child feels safe, valued and cared for. She strives to create a warm and welcoming nursery environment that feels like a second home, where children can learn and grow through individualised attention, creative exploration and meaningful experiences.

Ms Melissa Hanna also strongly believes in the importance of working in partnership with families. Building open and trusting relationships with parents is central to providing the care, support and guidance children need to flourish with confidence.

She is proud to be part of Jumeirah International Nurseries and looks forward to supporting every child throughout their journey of discovery, learning and growth.

Mrs Tasja Van Wyk
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries, Villanova

Mrs Tasja Van Wyk is the Head of Early Years at Jumeirah International Nurseries in Villanova.

Originally from South Africa, Mrs Tasja Van Wyk earned her degree in Education from the University of Pretoria and began her teaching career soon afterwards. Since relocating to the Middle East with her husband in 2004, she has devoted much of her career to nurturing young minds across the region.

Her extensive experience spans children aged from two to 12, although her passion lies firmly within the early years, where she believes the foundations for lifelong learning, confidence and wellbeing are established.

Mrs Tasja Van Wyk’s teaching philosophy is rooted in learning through play. She champions child-led, hands-on experiences that are thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity and create natural moments of discovery. She values every child’s individuality and works to ensure that each child feels seen, heard and celebrated.

Her training in Makaton also enables her to incorporate signs and symbols into her daily practice, strengthening communication and inclusion within the learning environment.

Through her passion, creativity and dedication, Mrs Tasja Van Wyk is committed to creating warm, inclusive and inspiring environments in which children and families feel supported, valued and able to thrive.

Mrs Mine Thompson
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries, Ibn Battuta Mall

Mrs Mine Thompson is the Head of Early Years at Jumeirah International Nurseries in Ibn Battuta Mall.

She brings more than 10 years of experience in education, supported by a strong academic background in Childhood Studies and Guidance and Counselling. Her professional experience includes working in international schools in Singapore and serving as a primary school teacher in South Africa.

Mrs Mine Thompson is delighted to be part of the Jumeirah International Nurseries team and looks forward to supporting children and families throughout the academic year at Ibn Battuta Mall.

Mrs Laura Partanen
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries, JBR

Mrs Laura Partanen is the Head of Early Years at Jumeirah International Nurseries in JBR.

She has devoted more than 15 years to supporting children internationally and helping them realise their full potential. Mrs Laura Partanen believes that a child’s learning journey begins at birth, with parents playing a vital role as their first teachers.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and has extensive knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage. Having led educational teams in both the UAE and Finland, Mrs Laura Partanen draws on her strong understanding of educational best practice to ensure that the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum is delivered to the highest standard.

Ms Loujayn Mawlawi
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries, Palm Jumeirah

Ms Loujayn is the Head of Early Years at Jumeirah International Nurseries, Palm Jumeirah. Lebanese by nationality, she was born in Saudi Arabia and raised in Tunisia. Her journey has taken her across the USA, Europe and the UAE, giving her the privilege of working with children, families and educators from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds.

These experiences have shaped Ms Loujayn’s belief that every child and family is unique, and that strong, trusting relationships are at the heart of a happy and successful early years experience.

As a mother of two daughters, Lana and Lily, Ms Loujayn understands the joys, hopes and questions parents experience when choosing the right environment for their child. She recognises how important it is for families to know that their children are not only safe and well cared for, but also genuinely known, understood and happy.

Ms Loujayn is committed to creating a warm, nurturing and inspiring environment where every child develops a strong sense of belonging, educators feel supported and empowered, and families feel heard, respected and valued.

She looks forward to welcoming families to the Jumeirah International Nurseries, Palm Jumeirah community, getting to know every child and sharing a meaningful early years journey filled with learning, happiness and wonderful memories.

A Little More About Ms Loujayn

Her passion: Travelling and discovering new cultures
Her favourite thing: Spending quality time with Lana and Lily
She loves: Meaningful conversations, new experiences and learning from others

Ms Yassmin Elesh
Head of Early Years, Jumeirah International Nurseries, Al Mamsha, Sharjah

Ms Yassmin Elesh is an accomplished education leader with over 15 years of experience in the education sector, including more than a decade in senior leadership roles. Throughout her career, she has remained guided by the belief that exceptional early years education begins with happy children, passionate educators and strong partnerships with families.

She holds a Master’s degree in Education from the UK and a Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature. She is currently pursuing the NCFE CACHE Level 5 qualification as part of her continued professional development and her aspiration to become an Early Years Assessor. Fluent in Arabic, English and Spanish, Ms Yassmin is able to connect meaningfully with families from a wide range of cultural backgrounds.

Ms Yassmin is passionate about creating nurturing, inspiring and inclusive learning environments where every child feels safe, valued and confident. Her positive, child-centred approach celebrates each child’s individuality while nurturing their curiosity, confidence and sense of belonging. She is equally committed to helping children develop an appreciation for the world around them and grow into compassionate, responsible global citizens.

Her leadership approach is built on meaningful relationships with children, families and educators. She believes in empowering teams to deliver high-quality learning experiences and exceptional care, ensuring that every child is given the opportunity to thrive.

Ms Yassmin is proud to be part of Jumeirah International Nurseries and looks forward to working closely with the nursery community to create a happy, welcoming environment where every child can thrive and flourish.