Meet the international team of volunteers transforming the future of Yazidi students through education
Nasr Alyas
Nasr is an IT Specialist and dedicated volunteer at Yazidi@School. He supports the team by implementing IT solutions like Moodle, assisting with donated laptops, and helping ensure that educational programs run smoothly through the effective use of technology. His work reflects a strong commitment to giving back to the community in Sinjar and supporting a brighter future for Yazidi youth through education and innovation.
Vicky
With nearly a decade of experience, Vicky is a passionate ESL teacher dedicated to helping adult learners from all backgrounds unlock the power of language. She customizes her lessons to fit each student’s cultural, linguistic, and personal journey—whether mastering everyday conversation or navigating complex grammar. A native English speaker from the U.S. now living in Argentina, she´s is also fluent in Spanish and teaches it to English speakers. She has worked with learners across Europe and Latin America, and in early 2025, she began volunteering as an English tutor for people affected by conflicts in the Middle East—a deeply rewarding chapter in her career. Vicky’s classrooms are welcoming spaces where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired. She believes language goes beyond communication—it’s a bridge to connection, courage, and new possibilities. “Learning English doesn’t replace your roots—it helps you share them.”
María
I am an enthusiastic ELT Teacher with extensive experience delivering online and on-site English lessons to students of diverse ages and learning styles. Currently, I work as a remote Teacher of English for an international program, where I specialize in adapting curricula for primary schools. My technical background is supported by a CELTA qualification and ongoing studies for a Bachelor of Learning Design and Technology. I am specialized in Neurosciences for Educators, allowing me to support students academically, emotionally, and socially. Based in Argentina, I collaborate with diverse global organizations to promote freedom and justice through education. I believe teaching a language and critical thinking is a powerful skill that opens doors to future possibilities for our students.
Donna
Donna is a dedicated English teacher passionate about supporting English learners through both in-person and online sessions. With over 10 years of teaching experience in Italy, she holds CELTA and TEFL certifications and takes pride in her Filipino and Italian heritage. As an English Speaking Examiner, she works with learners of all ages and serves as the DOS Coordinator for Young Learners at a private language school in Italy. Additionally, she is an aspiring author and blogger, focusing on English learning as a passport to freedom and peace. Since October 2025, she has been volunteering as an English Language Teacher with Yazidi@school, finding immense fulfillment in her contributions. “In these turbulent times, our efforts at Yazidi@School hold great significance. While some may promote conflict, let us stay committed to nurturing peace.”
Azra Qazi
Azra Qazi is an education specialist who brings energy, creativity, and heart into everything she does. With a strong background in teacher training and curriculum development, she combines expertise with a warm, people-centered approach that makes learning engaging and meaningful. Azra enjoys connecting with communities, experimenting with new ideas, and turning serious goals into enjoyable journeys. Passionate about making education accessible and impactful, she volunteers her time to inspire both educators and learners—always with a smile and a touch of positivity.
Basma Sulaiman
Basma Sulaiman is an English language teacher, writer, and community educator from Sinjar, Iraq. With over seven years of teaching experience, she is passionate about empowering youth and women through education. Basma has worked with local and international organizations in education, protection, and women’s empowerment, and she continues to advocate for equal learning opportunities in underserved communities. She also enjoys storytelling, literature, and creating safe, inspiring spaces for learning and growth.
Aysegul
A retired teacher once said, “Once a teacher, always a teacher.” Though the demands of the school system had become exhausting, the joy of connecting with students remained. When Margaret introduced Yazidi At School (YAS), an online program, it became a lifeline. Despite virtual limitations, a strong community formed—students with eager minds and resilient spirits, and teachers united by passion. Together, they learn, grow, and support one another. YAS stands as a beacon of hope for students facing adversity.
Chiara
Chiara has been a freelance English teacher for over 10 years, working with both children and adults. Now that her schedule has become more stable, she’s dedicating time to volunteering. Through online lessons with the Yazidi community, she brings creative and engaging methods to spark curiosity and confidence. Her focus is on building trust and creating a safe, supportive space where students feel free to express themselves and grow.
Mustafa Dakhil
Mustafa Dakhil is a dedicated volunteer who grew up in an environment that valued learning and hard work, shaping his academic and practical strengths. He studied Mathematical Sciences at the University of Zakho, gaining skills in creative thinking, adaptability, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, and effective communication. Ambitious and well-organized, he enjoys working in a team and always strives to achieve goals efficiently. Mustafa believes that every person has a mission in life, and his is guided by positivity, contribution, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Ilah Ross
Ilah coordinates the Yazidis in Conversation program alongside her sister, Micah. She studies Religion, English, and Creative Writing at University. Ilah has experience in journalism and volunteers at an organization where she edits articles for incarcerated populations. She loves learning about Yazidi religion and culture and is incredibly excited to be a part of Yazidi@School.
Micah Ross
Micah coordinates the Yazidis in Conversation program alongside her sister, Ilah. She studied Middle Eastern Studies and Arabic at University, and has previously volunteered at the Serres refugee in Northern Greece, where many Yazidis reside. She is incredibly inspired by the resilience of the Yazidi people in the face of so much hardship.
Berivan
Berivan is a dedicated English teacher, translator, and interpreter with a deep passion for language and education. She has extensive experience teaching English to learners of all levels, making language learning both engaging and effective. As a translator and interpreter, she has worked on various projects, including proofreading, subtitling, voice-over, and localization. Beyond professional work, she volunteers as an English teacher at the Yazidi School in Amsterdam, contributing to the education of Yazidi people.
Mahnoor Saghir
Mahnoor Saghir. Since she was a little girl, growing up in Pakistan, she has always dreamed of becoming a teacher. And practiced with her stuffed toys, even giving them tests! Now she is studying Teacher Education at the Amsterdam University. Once graduated she looks forward to serving her own people in Pakistan. Since Mahnoor is very busy with her studies & work, she is a Reading Teacher for Yazidi@School: she reads novels, short stories etc with her students.