‘IB helped my daughter find her voice’

She is working as a senior consultant, Institute of Respiratory Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Max Hospital, Saket. Since she works with some of the most academically brilliant minds in the country, she has often felt that emotional intelligence and global awareness are sometimes lacking. She didn’t want her daughter, Sanaya Ali, a PYP 3 student at Apeejay’s IB School, Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park, to grow up with a rigid, fixed mindset and therefore chose this school.

Meet Dr Amina Mobashir, who, in a candid interview, shares how the IB curriculum and the school are shaping her daughter’s journey.

How do you balance your professional life with Sanaya’s education, especially in the IB curriculum?

I feel fortunate to have a strong team at work. That sense of support has been crucial in helping me manage both my career and my responsibilities as a mother. It’s also something I try to teach Sanaya, the value of having dependable people around you. At home, I make it a point to pick her up after school. I believe that’s when children are most vulnerable. We also chose our home carefully. When I moved to Max Hospital, we ensured we lived near the hospital and her school. That proximity has made balancing everything much easier.

Beyond academics, what qualities did you want the school to nurture in her?

I want her to be exposed to different cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking. I want her to develop independent thought, not just complete assignments and submit them on time. For me, holistic personality development is non-negotiable. With the IB curriculum, I genuinely see that happening.

What benefits were you hoping for when you chose IB education for her?

Initially, like many parents, I thought perhaps she might go abroad for higher studies one day, and IB would open global opportunities for her. But as it turns out, Sanaya is deeply passionate about sports, especially football. What reassures me is that the school supports her just as strongly in sports as in academics. It nurtures talent while also supporting areas where a child may need help.

I also make it a point that at least once every 15 days, she speaks to a counsellor. Sometimes children don’t share everything with their parents. A third-person perspective often helps. It gives them a safe, neutral space to express themselves and gain clarity.

Is there any activity you and Sanaya enjoy doing together?

Yes. She loves art, sketching and craft work. I may not actively sketch with her, but I sit beside her while she works, so she knows I’m present. That time matters. We also play football together. We have a small football space at home, and we enjoy playing there. It’s simple, but it’s our time.

As a respiratory and sleep specialist, how do you ensure Sanaya leads a healthy lifestyle?

Her diet isn’t very conventional. But I focus on balance. If she’s getting adequate protein, carbohydrates, and nutrients through different healthy sources during the day, I’m satisfied. In terms of physical activity, I’ve been lucky. She has what I call a “madness” for football. She plays every day, so her physical activity is well taken care of.

The IB curriculum is known to be rigorous. How does the school support Sanaya?

What stands out to me about Apeejay School International is how individual-centric it is. Many schools claim that, but here I’ve truly experienced it. Communication is exceptional. As a doctor, I know that half the job is done when communication is clear. Through the Toddle app, I can message teachers anytime, and they respond. We are always on the same page about where Sanaya stands academically. If she struggles with something, I’ve never hesitated to inform the teachers. They always create a plan, spend extra time, and ensure she catches up.

Sanaya has been at the school since the beginning. How has her journey been?

When she first joined, she was shy, timid, and scared to communicate. Over the years, I’ve seen a remarkable transformation. Her confidence has grown tremendously. She expresses herself clearly and without fear. It has truly been a win-win journey for us. The teachers’ consistent communication and support have played a huge role in that growth. I genuinely believe they are doing a wonderful job.