Honouring the Quiet Architects of Our World: Reflections from the GEMS Education Global Teacher Prize 2026 in Dubai by Sudhir Maheshwari, Founder & Managing Partner-Synergy Capital

My wife, Sangeeta, and I had the privilege of attending A Celebration of Teachers at Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai on Monday. It was an inspiring evening where the Top 10 finalists were unveiled for the $1 million GEMS Education Global Teacher Prize 2026. This annual award, an initiative of the Varkey Foundation in collaboration with UNESCO and hosted in Dubai, honours some of the world’s most exceptional educators. 

Over the course of my four-decade professional journey across the globe, we have been fortunate to witness many remarkable events. Yet few have been as moving as this celebration of those who shape humanity’s future every day. From an impressive pool of nearly 120,000 applications spanning almost 50 nationalities, ten extraordinary teachers were shortlisted. The winner will be announced on February 5, 2026.

The ten finalists took the stage to present their work and were questioned by two senior representatives of GEMS Education. The cohort, predominantly women, represented nine countries, including two teachers from the United States. Each shared powerful stories of creativity, compassion and dedication.  Among them, Mr. Timothy James Stiven from the United States spoke about his work empowering Afghan girls to continue their education remotely. Ms. Rouble Nagi from India described how she transforms young lives through art. Ms. Jasmyn Wright, also from the United States, spoke about the work she does through affirmations. One of those affirmations, “I will push through”, went viral online and struck a chord with students far beyond her own classroom.

As I sat in the audience, I reflected on the UAE’s enduring commitment to education and human development. The governments of Dubai and Abu Dhabi have played a defining role in hosting this global award for the past decade, making it one of the most respected international recognitions of teachers. Equally deserving of praise are Mr. Sunny Varkey and his sons, Dino and Jay, whose vision and leadership have sustained this initiative since its inception.

We all know how important teachers are in our lives. Each of us can remember a teacher who helped shape who we became. Teachers do more than impart knowledge; they shape human beings and, in doing so, shape mankind. They are the quiet architects of our world, yet so often they remain unsung. An accolade like the Global Teacher Prize creates a moment each year to recognise and celebrate the vital role of teachers. 

For me, the evening also brought back memories of my grandmother, a lady who continues to inspire me. Married at a young age and educated only up to grade three, she later earned two master’s degrees and went on to found a school in Ajmer, India, aptly named The Happy School. Dedicated to educating underprivileged children, she served as its founding principal until her sudden passing. My two aunts carried forward her legacy for more than two decades. Though I grew up in Kolkata and saw her annually, her example remains one of the strongest influences on my life. 

My wife and I also set up our own Maheshwari Foundation almost two decades ago, through our own modest means. Over the years, we have undertaken several projects at the grassroots level in challenging environments. Two, in particular, stand out for us: a school in Howrah, India, for three- to six-year-olds from underprivileged backgrounds, and a collaboration with Cheshire in New Delhi supporting children with special needs. Both of these experiences, among many others, have had a profound impact on us.

My heartfelt congratulations to the Varkey Foundation, GEMS Education and the Varkey family for a decade of tireless commitment to uplifting educators worldwide. It is both an honour and a privilege for Synergy Capital to partner with GEMS Education. 

Best of luck to each of the ten shortlisted teachers ahead of tomorrow’s result.