Our story is a testament to resilience and vision—a journey from humble beginnings to creating an education landscape that focuses on academic excellence, fosters innovation, empowering the brightest minds to lead and change the world.
Boston, 2010. A special moment with my mom in front of Harvard Medical School, celebrating the approval of my first course at Harvard as a course director at the age of 24 years old. She was so proud!
The idea for the Oxford Academy of Excellence took root during my postdoctoral research and while leading courses at Harvard University. My journey from a disadvantaged background to one of the world’s top universities has fueled my passion for education.
Realizing how fortunate I was to be among the brightest minds, I recognized that many other exceptional individuals had not been as lucky. This inspired me to create an institution that provides an exceptional and affordable education, bringing together some of the world’s brightest minds.
During my time at Harvard, I was deeply involved in both research and teaching, which gave me a unique perspective on the transformative power of education. I witnessed firsthand how access to world-class resources and cutting-edge research could inspire students to achieve their full potential. This experience reinforced my belief that education should not be a privilege reserved for the few but a right accessible to all who seek it.
I vividly remember knocking on the doors of world-class leaders from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Yale, MIT, Oxford, and Cambridge, inviting them to participate in the courses I was organizing. These exceptional individuals not only agreed to join but also inspired me, helping to shape my vision for the future and influence my professional path. I feel incredibly fortunate to have received guidance from Nobel Prize Laureates and visionary minds from leading industries.
The lessons I’ve learned from these exceptional individuals go beyond science. They taught me that greatness isn’t just about achievement but about helping others succeed. They emphasized the transformative impact of mentorship, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the success of others. This lesson has become a guiding principle in my approach to education.
My mother, Afedita, always told me that true success lies not just in personal achievements but in the ability to inspire and give back to the community. Her wisdom has profoundly influenced my vision for the Oxford Academy of Excellence (OAE), reinforcing the importance of creating an institution where inspiration and community impact are as vital as academic excellence.
In front of Harvard Medical School, just before meeting with the Dean of Education to discuss postgraduate medical education.
I envisioned Oxford Academy of Excellence as a place where academic excellence, innovation, and inspiration are the cornerstones of our educational approach. I wanted to create a learning environment where students from all walks of life could access research-informed courses that lead to both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications.
Our programs are designed with a particular focus on biomedical science and genomic medicine, areas where I have seen firsthand the potential for groundbreaking advancements. We use flexible delivery methods and inclusive support systems, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to excel and grow, both personally and professionally. By emphasizing peer learning, we foster a collaborative environment that mirrors the professional world, preparing our students to become leaders and innovators.
Oxford Academy of Excellence is more than just education, it is a community committed to creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment that encourages students to reach new heights. Through our commitment to education, innovation, and inspiration, we strive to transform the future of learning and create a lasting impact on society.