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Kathy Dada, a professor of chemistry and the principal education consultant at Collège des sœurs des Saints-Cœurs (SSCC) Aïn Najm, is the first Lebanese to be awarded the Earth Prize for the teachers’ category.
Started in 2022 by the Earth Foundation, a non-lucrative Swiss organization founded by Peter McGarry and headed by Angela McCarthy, the prize showcases individuals who work toward the protection of our planet.
Kathy Dada is one of these individuals. Holder of a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Université Saint-Joseph, Dada is dedicated to the preservation of natural biodiversity in her school, where she hosts conferences on climate change and hydroponic agriculture to raise awareness among the youth.
“This prize is not only a form of recognition that motivates me to move forward. It is also a message of hope for the Lebanese youth that nothing is impossible”, said Kathy Dada to This is Beirut.
A cancer survivor, Dada is a source of inspiration for her students and society as a whole. As optimistic as ever, she intends to transmit her beliefs to her own pupils. She adds, “This challenge has made me a stronger and more perseverant person. I now firmly believe that we should give youngsters the right to dream again.” In addition to teaching, Kathy Dada has been an active member of the Association des Guides du Liban for over 22 years.
The Earth Prize has three categories. The first, “Students of the Year”, awards the laureate the sum of $200,000, which they share among each other and their school. The three finalists are also awarded $25,000 each for their respective schools.
In the “Teacher of the Year” category, tutors are nominated by their own students and are awarded $10,000 each. Lastly, in the “Mentor of the Year” category, students are chosen to guide and advise young participants. The three best mentors are selected by their protégés and are each awarded $5,000.