From a young age, growing up in Africa, I was acutely aware of the stark disparities between the privileged and the disadvantaged. In a society where inequality was often accepted as the norm, I felt an inner resistance—a deep discomfort that shaped my worldview. That early awareness planted a seed: a lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of the underserved. I knew that my career would have to reflect this calling and eventually, I found both purpose and direction through Montessori education.
A Social Mission with Deep Roots
Montessori has become more than a professional path—it has become a clear alignment with my personal mission. The Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) articulates its social mission as “supporting the natural development of all human beings throughout their lives, enabling them to become transformative agents for a harmonious, peaceful, and sustainable world through education.” This vision resonates deeply with me.
Central to AMI’s mission is the accessibility of quality Montessori education and relevant, inclusive teacher training. These principles have guided much of my professional journey.
A Dream Realised in East Africa
In the spring of 2012, I realised a long-held dream when I joined the Arthur Waser Foundation in Lucerne as the Program Manager for Montessori in Africa. This role renewed my determination to bring high-quality Montessori education to as many children as possible across East Africa.
By then, I had already completed my AMI Primary and Elementary training and had founded a Montessori Child Care Centre in Switzerland. This new chapter—returning to Africa in a new capacity—was both humbling and transformative. My upbringing on the continent, combined with my Montessori background, had uniquely equipped me to help implement a vision that closely echoed AMI’s social mission.
The foundation for this work had been laid decades earlier. In 1967, the first AMI 3–6 Diploma Course in Africa was offered in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The graduates of that course became pioneers of change, establishing seven Montessori Training Centres across the country and launching a National Montessori Certificate Course. Their impact has since touched over 100,000 children through the training of more than 4,000 teachers and the establishment of over 2,000 daycares.
Through my role with the Arthur Waser Foundation, I was instrumental in rekindling this original momentum by supporting the launch of the second AMI 3–6 Diploma Course in Tanzania in 2017. I also played a critical role in establishing a lasting partnership between AMI and the Foundation. Through this collaboration, I facilitated the development of several significant initiatives—from introducing Montessori programs in Maasai communities in the Kilimanjaro region to initiating the ‘Montessori Patterns’ project, which led to the creation of an award-winning ‘Montessori Architecture School’ through diverse, cross-sector collaboration.
Lastly, looking ahead for the delivery of future diploma courses in Africa, the vision was to see courses delivered by African-born AMI Trainers. This is already becoming a reality, with several graduates from the early diploma courses entering AMI’s Training of Trainers program.
The Power of Purposeful Education
When I began my Montessori journey in 1996, I could never have foreseen the reach and impact this work would have. Today, as Pedagogical Director of AMI/USA, I draw on decades of experience—as an educator, leader, program manager, and trainer—to serve effectively in this national leadership role with insight and intention.
I remain deeply grateful to be part of this unfolding story. Montessori education has the power to transform not just individual children, but entire communities. It fosters agency, nurtures peace, and helps create the changemakers our world so urgently needs.
Though the challenges have been many, they have been far outweighed by the rewards. The knowledge that countless children are benefiting from this education—and may go on to reach their highest potential—continues to inspire and sustain me.
Recognising the profound influence of AMI Trainers in shaping future educators, I chose to pursue the AMI Training of Trainers program. Trainers carry the important responsibility not only to impart pedagogical knowledge but also to inspire clarity of purpose and a deep respect for the development of the child.
In overseeing the pedagogical direction of AMI/USA and the AMI Recognition Program across the United States, I collaborate expertly with Trainers, school leaders, administrators, consultants, and teachers to ensure consistent, high-fidelity implementation of AMI principles.
At the heart of my work lies a simple yet enduring commitment: to uphold the rights of the child and help shape an education system rooted in respect, peace, and possibility. That seed—planted in my childhood—continues to grow, nourished by the values of Montessori education, and continues to fuel my ongoing efforts in this meaningful and vital work with AMI/USA.
Soraya Lallani, AMI Auxiliary 3-6 Trainer
