Jessica Nair
Nominee's Province:
Kwazulu-natal
Project Name/Description:
Founder, Breakthrough Centre Academy Departmental Head, Shakaskraal Primary School
Nair has been teaching for the past thirty-four years, and she has no intention of stopping.
She continues to inspire dozens of people, through her social outreach project for children and young people, since 1990. Three decades back, with her family’s support, Kidz Club started and went on to blossom into a multifunctional community centre, establishing two early childhood development centres.
Nair is clear – her success should be attributed to the ministry of God, her husband, parents, children, friends and her spiritual father, Dr Jonathan David. She lives with the belief that in the heart of every child, lies the dormant seed of a future leader, a nation-builder and standard bearer. Over the decades, Nair’s contribution to education has extended beyond the classroom, touching lives in her community.
Nair’s passion lies with children, she strongly believes that every child can achieve their full potential, while we ensure they are not defined by their environment.
She takes her role in the classroom as the mentor and guardian of future leaders seriously.
The calibre of learners she produces is defined by her invaluable effort. Her standards are high but not impossible to attain. She also ensures that there is a level of accountability and discipline practised amongst learners, and those they influence.
Nair’s book, written to assist children with barriers to reading, has become a lifeline to many children who never thought that they could read.
Her achievements, among many, include taking first place in the KwaDukuza Municipality Mayoral Awards for Community Development, Nedbank local heroes, Jet Club icon and Dolphin Coast’s Big 5 Award. Breakthrough Centre Academy has also become a reliable fountain of knowledge for radio and television interviews.
