Sarah Reich, your host, serves as the Director of Community Relations at the International School of Hamburg. With a career in European government relations and public affairs, Sarah has worked within EU institutions, the consular corps, and leading international companies. Her academic and professional interests have always centred on governance and citizenship, making the mission of the International School of Hamburg—to prepare students as tomorrow’s global citizens—a perfect fit. In 2022, upon joining the International School of Hamburg, Sarah launched the Kids Gone Global podcast. This initiative aims to provide a platform for sharing the insights of experts and students in the dynamic field of international education. Through the podcast, she engages parents and the broader community in discussions about modern educational approaches and how international schools are addressing contemporary challenges in learning and growing up in a global environment.

Vilasani (Grade 8) and Nayeli (Grade 11) are two students at the International School of Hamburg who found a shared sense of purpose and creativity through school theatre. With American and German backgrounds, both are deeply engaged in the ISH community and committed to their academic journeys — Vilasani as a 13-year-old in Grade 8, and Nayeli as a Grade 11 student preparing for the International Baccalaureate. Having first taken the stage together in last year’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, they returned this year for ALICE, drawn by the intensity, collaboration, and joy that theatre brings. For Vilasani, the play became a space to explore creativity, expression, and confidence beyond the classroom. For Nayeli, it offered a meaningful balance to the demands of senior school — a place to recharge while still challenging herself artistically. Throughout rehearsals, both students embraced the commitment the production required, learning to manage time, embody complex characters, and work closely with a diverse cast united by a shared goal. Their reflections reveal how theatre helped them discover new strengths, build lasting connections, and see themselves as more than just students. In this podcast episode, Vilasani and Nayeli share what it means to choose creativity, to grow through collaboration, and to find voice and confidence through the arts. ALICE runs from February 10 to 12. For more information about the production, visit: 👉 https://info.ishamburg.org/alice

Ana-Mara Leppink, born in Hamburg, holds both German and Dutch nationalities and is now attending Harvard University and plans to do a double major in “Environmental Science and Applied Math”. Ana-Mara attended the International School of Hamburg from the age of five in 2010 until her graduation in 2023. Among her favourite school memories are the NECIS volleyball tournaments, in which she participated since 5th grade, the Duke of Edinburgh Trip in 11th grade, and the vibrant International Fairs. Throughout her school years, Ana-Mara was an active member of the student council and spearheaded various initiatives, including setting up the house system in 2022 with the students council and founding the Green ISH club to enhance environmental awareness and practices among her peers and the broader school community thereby setting the school on the path to an eco-school accreditation. Ana-Mara is a strong advocate of student-to-student mentorship and support and remains a dedicated member of the ISH Community.

Dr. Alan Knobloch has served as Head of the International School of Hamburg since 2022 and brings more than 30 years of experience in international education. His career has taken him to schools across the United States, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Prior to joining ISH, he was the Director of the International School of Dakar in Senegal and held senior leadership roles at several private international schools, including the American Schools in Shanghai and Singapore. Teaching has remained central to Alan’s professional life. His experience spans primary mathematics, supporting children with special needs, lecturing in psychology at the university level, and advising doctoral students. This broad background shapes his perspective on what schools must provide for students today. Alan is an active member of the wider international education community. He has served on the boards of several associations and currently sits on the board—and serves as treasurer—of both the Academy of International School Heads and the Association for the Advancement of International Education. He also works with school boards as a consultant on governance and financial planning and frequently speaks at conferences on educational innovation. In this episode, Alan shares his views on the evolving purpose of school and the skills students need to navigate an increasingly complex world. He discusses why schools must attend to the whole child—supporting academic growth, personal strengths, socio-emotional wellbeing, and resilience—and how educational communities can work toward these goals.

Dr. Nneka Johnson is an educational consultant who is dedicated to supporting schools in creating human-centered solutions that empower students, educators, staff, and school leaders. She believes in the use of innovative methodologies to make a positive impact within diverse school communities. In 2023, Nneka became the first Fellow at the Council of International Schools (CIS). Before joining CIS, she spent five years at the International School of Dakar (ISD), where she held the position of Director of Innovation and Strategic Development. In her senior leadership role at ISD she was responsible for several school strategic initiatives. She is a member of the AISA Board and sits on the Membership Committee. She has been a member of the AISA Professional Learning Design Team since 2019. Nneka is an EDSAFE AI Women in AI Fellow. EDSAFE AI is a global initiative led by InnovateEDU, designed to foster a safer and more trustworthy AI education ecosystem through research, policy, and practice. Nneka’s educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Queens College in New York City, a Master’s degree in Instructional Technology from Georgia State University, and a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from Mercer University in Atlanta. Nneka is a frequent presenter on topics such as Design Thinking, generative AI, student voice, and DEIJ.

Dr. Suzan Weishof, Learning Support Teacher and Child Safeguarding Officer at the International School of Hamburg, is a sought-after speaker, consultant and published author in the area of play and the integration of play therapy techniques in early childhood settings. Her journey at the International School of Hamburg began in 1995 when she started as a Junior School teacher, subsequently transitioning to roles as a Counselor and Head of Learning Support. Suzan pursued a sabbatical to complete her Ph.D. in Educational Counseling, where she served as a first responder to children who lost family members after the attacks on September 11 in New York City. Upon her return in 2003, she assumed the role of Junior School Principal from 2010-2019. Her academic research on play therapy techniques significantly influenced her approach to the early years program, aligning it with international best practices in the field. Dr. Weishof earned her B.A. from Mount Saint Mary’s University, a Master’s in Educational Counseling from California State University, San Bernardino, and a Ph.D. in Educational Counseling from the University of North Texas.

Jackie van der Steege is an experienced international educator and leader with over twenty years of teaching experience in both the United Kingdom and the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework. She is a curriculum developer who is deeply committed to promoting student agency and strengthening Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills. Jackie currently serves as the Middle Years Programme (MYP) Coordinator at the International School of Hamburg, where she provides pedagogical leadership, supports curriculum alignment, and guides teachers in developing authentic, student-centered learning experiences. Since joining ISH in 2018, she has led the Design Department, enhanced IB-aligned curriculum development, supported STEAM initiatives, contributed to the school’s CIS/NEASC accreditation process, and worked closely with leadership and department heads to advance academic integrity, assessment practices, and professional growth. Previously, Jackie taught MYP Design at Bonn International School where she was recognized as an Apple Distinguished Educator and gained extensive teaching experience in Design and Technology, Food Technology, Textiles, and Visual Arts in the UK. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics and Consumer Science, has studied Psychology and Sociology, completed teacher training in the UK, and continues to advocate for creative, innovative, and globally minded education.

James Knight, born in the United Kingdom he holds both British and German nationalities. Having moved to Germany in 2011 from the UK, he studied at the International School of Hamburg until June 2023 where he graduated from the IB Career-Related Programme (IBCP). During his studies at ISH, James completed the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award. He was a core member of the Tech Crew where from Grade 6 he played a crucial role in managing sound and lighting, as well as backstage crew in numerous school events and productions. However, the most notable and standout achievement was his role as Technical Director for Shrek the Musical in 2022. Furthermore, since Grade 9, he was a dedicated Student Coordinator for the Work Crew providing support in the set up of School wide events. Presently, he is in the Second Year of the BA (Hons) Production and Technical Arts: Stage & Screen course at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) as a part of this course James is developing and applying his skills in Technical Theatre. In addition to his studies, he works as a freelance theatre lighting and sound technician, bringing his passion for technical theatre to professional stage settings at Theatres & Arenas across London.

Laura is an experienced educational technologist and curriculum developer with a focus on helping students and educators navigate the digital world responsibly. At the International School of Hamburg (ISH), she spent three years developing a holistic Digital Citizenship Curriculum for young learners. She also regularly leads workshops, coaching cycles, and training sessions for staff and parents on a range of topics related to educational technology and digital citizenship. Before joining ISH, Laura worked in the Greater New York City area as an educational technologist and professional development specialist. In that role, she designed and facilitated training sessions for educators, supported school-wide professional learning, and piloted STEM initiatives in partnership with various schools, including those within the NYC Department of Education. Laura began her career as a teacher and Social Studies Curriculum Leader in the NYC Department of Education. She developed Common Core–aligned curricula, contributed to improvements in student learning, and integrated technology into her teaching to increase engagement and support diverse learners. She also participated in collaborative inquiry teams and curriculum planning efforts across her department. Throughout her career, Laura has focused on creating practical, supportive learning experiences for teachers, students, and families. Her work continues to help school communities use technology thoughtfully and build the skills needed for responsible participation in a digital world.

Michael Kent is a Geography and Environmental Science teacher with over a decade of experience in both UK and international schools. Originally from the South of England, he has held a range of roles throughout his career, including Head of Geography, Approaches to Learning Coordinator, and most recently IB Career-related Programme Coordinator at the International School of Hamburg. Since August 2024, he has been serving as the IBDP Coordinator and Assistant Principal at Hanoi International School. Michael has been involved with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award since 2011, working as both a supervisor and program coordinator in two schools. He introduced the Award program at ISH in 2021, beginning with the Bronze level, and is supporting the school’s first cohort of Silver Award participants. He is a strong advocate for lifelong learning and values the role that outdoor education plays in developing confidence, resilience, and independence in young people.

Navin Proff, a German national, graduated from the International School of Hamburg in 2024 and is about to begin his freshman year at Yale University, where he plans to pursue a double major in Philosophy & Economics. An avid learner, Navin started studying Law at the University of Hamburg at the age of 16 and has completed the Harvard Extension School undergraduate “Social Justice” certificate. Navin recently published his first book “Telosismus” in 2023 which he refers to in this episode. As the Founder and President of the international honour society Alpha Epsilon Omicron, Navin leads initiatives focused on philosophical, social, and environmental projects. His research at Universität Hamburg’s Center for Natural Science and Peace Research is centered on climate change and its societal impacts, conducted within the Cluster of Excellence (CLICCS). Navin has also interned at prestigious law firms and achieved his professional certifications from the New York Institute of Finance and The Wharton School. Driven by a passion for knowledge and social impact, Navin aims to leverage his diverse experiences at school and beyond to foster positive change and innovation. At ISH for example he took a number of extra-curricular initiatives such as lead the student Council, speak at the TEDx event hosted at the school in 2024, joined the Tunisia and Tanzania projects and started a number of popular clubs.

Noelle, Tammy, Annabelle and Ben (Grade 11), and Gaspar (Grade 9), are five high school students from Germany, France, and Spain who connected at the International School of Hamburg. Some play sports, others take on student council or the Duke of Edinburgh Award, but they all share a genuine desire to explore, reach out, and make a difference. Together, they joined the Sri Lanka Project, which meant months of planning, fundraising, learning about local schools’ challenges, situational awareness, and training in first aid. Balancing schoolwork and everyday life, they also bonded through group activities before they arrived in Sri Lanka. Once there, they brought curiosity, warmth, and a readiness to support the local communities -whether playing games with kindergartners, bridging language gaps with laughter, or painting classrooms together. Their journey formed a deeper connection among them, revealing how service can be more than just travel. Now that they’re back, each oversees one project inspired by what they learned, seeing how small steps can ripple into real change. In this podcast, they share the moments that nudged them out of their comfort zones, the friendships that grew, and the sense of responsibility they carry forward.

Tracey is an experienced primary educator and school leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to early childhood development, instructional excellence, and data-informed teaching. She completed her Bachelor of Arts with Honours and Qualified Teacher Status at Bath Spa University in England, where she specialized in early years education and continued her professional growth through advanced classroom training. During her early teaching career in the UK, Tracey took on a range of leadership responsibilities, including serving as a teacher governor, subject coordinator, student-teacher mentor, and member of the senior management team. She later stepped into the role of acting deputy headteacher, gaining valuable experience in school leadership and community engagement. Tracey joined the International School of Hamburg (ISH) in 2001 as part of the Early Years Centre, where she worked as a classroom teacher and completed the IPC Leaders for Learning Coordinator Training in London. After taking time to raise her two children, she returned to ISH with a renewed focus on leadership and professional growth. She completed the Leadership Training for International School Teacher Leaders at the Principals Training Centre and continued her development through programs such as Jim Knight’s instructional coaching training and a Stanford University mathematics course. These experiences sparked her keen interest in data analysis and its role in supporting effective teaching and enhanced student learning. Today, Tracey divides her time between her role as a Grade 2 teacher and her position as the Early Years and Junior School Assistant Principal at ISH. She remains dedicated to fostering strong, supportive learning environments and empowering both students and teachers through reflective practice, collaboration, and evidence-based approaches.