Driving Transformational Education and Global Impact Through Leadership and Innovation: Dareen Tawil Among 2026’s Most Impactful Global Education Leaders
True leadership is measured not by titles held but by lives transformed, communities empowered, and opportunities created for others to thrive. In this edition, Most Impactful Global Education Leaders, 2026, we are proud to feature Dareen Tawil, an educational consultant, global strategist, and visionary leader whose work continues to inspire meaningful change across the education sector.
On Cover
Dareen Tawil
Educational Consultant, Global Advisor and Strategist. Founder & CEO of EMPOWER Rise Above(ERA)
Long before any formal position confirmed what those around her could already see, Dareen was drawn to the work of empowerment. Supporting individuals in reaching their potential, creating positive ripple effects within communities, and building something that outlasted her direct involvement were not ambitions she developed over time. They were simply who she was. When a mentor recognized that in 2010 and encouraged her to step into educational leadership, it was less a turning point than a confirmation.
Rania Abdelfattah Obeid
STEM Director, Educational Consultant & Research Scholar
In a world where education systems struggle to keep pace with technological advancement and societal needs, Rania Abdelfattah Obeid stands as a beacon of transformative change. Her journey from a curious educator to a globally recognized STEM advocate represents more than professional growth; it embodies a mission to revolutionize how we prepare students for a future that demands both technical proficiency and purposeful innovation.
Najwa Saba ‘Ayon Fares
Professor & Academic Coordinator | EFL and Intercultural Communication Specialist Rafik Hariri University, Lebanon | EdD, University of Sussex | UNESCO Story Circle Trainer
Before she stood in front of university students in Lebanon, before she earned her Doctorate in Education from the University of Sussex, before she became a professor, curriculum reformer, UNESCO Story Circle trainer, and advocate for ethical AI integration in higher education, Najwa Saba ‘AyonFares was lining up her dolls and teaching them English. She would explain vocabulary, correct imaginary errors, and picture herself in front of a classroom.
Dr. Asma Khalfan Al Aufi
Lecturer at Sultan Qaboos University | Managing Director, Moon Group LLC
In an era where education and enterprise often operate in separate silos, Dr. Asma Khalfan Al Aufi stands as a remarkable exception. Her dual identity as a university lecturer and managing director of an established Omani enterprise represents more than just professional versatility. It embodies a philosophy that academic rigor and business acumen are not opposing forces but complementary dimensions of transformative leadership.
