The Dubai April Fair, hosted by Search Associates Bill and Alison Turner at Universal American School on April 12th, proved to be the perfect solution for schools with late hiring needs and educators still seeking their next opportunity. The one-day event brought together 83 candidates and representatives from 16 schools across the UAE, China, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. Candidate Leah Ombewa reflected on her experience:
As my first physical job fair since joining Search Associates, it was indeed a unique and enriching experience. I not only had the opportunity to participate in an interview but also connected with fellow educators, reflected, shared ideas on the best teaching practices, and embraced the notion of thinking beyond the box.
The event was further enhanced by the Turners’ first-time collaboration with Birmingham University Dubai. Their team provided professional development resources, career guidance, and generously sponsored lunch for all attendees. Bill and Alison look forward to future partnerships with Birmingham for upcoming presentations and events across the UAE and beyond.
The personal impact of the fair was evident in heartfelt messages shared by participants. In a note to Ray Sparks, Megan Niyonshuti wrote:
I wanted to sincerely thank you once again for encouraging me to attend the school fair. It truly was the best thing that’s happened to me this year. It was a life-changing experience in so many ways. It gave me clarity on the areas I want to grow in as a teacher, and it was incredibly motivating to meet and connect with other educators…It was also comforting to realize I wasn’t alone in feeling nervous or unsure about how to approach the fair, the interviews, or the expectations…I had three interviews…Bill and Alison…checked in on us often and made sure we felt comfortable and cared for—it made a huge difference…Thank you again for your continued mentorship and encouragement. …And a special moment I wanted to share at the fair: there was a university counselor who saw I was feeling overwhelmed and took a few minutes to talk with me. His kindness and calm support helped me re-center and move forward with confidence.
Another candidate, Indu Sara Isac, echoed this sentiment in her message to Bill Turner:
I just wanted to take a moment to say how truly wonderful the Job Fair event was! It was such a positive experience…so well-organized, full of energy, and filled with inspiring conversations. Meeting educators from all across the globe was incredibly enriching and left me feeling so encouraged and motivated…A big part of that positivity came from you... your enthusiasm, warmth, and encouraging attitude were truly contagious. You made everyone feel welcome and valued, and it really set the tone for the entire event. Thank you for being such a supportive presence throughout.
With its supportive atmosphere and opportunity-rich environment, the Dubai April Fair continues to showcase what makes Search Associates stand out: meaningful mentorship, professional connections, and a global community of educators lifting one another up.
For over 30 years, Search Associates has proven that no matter the season or size of the fair, life-changing opportunities are always possible with the right support. To learn more about upcoming global job fairs, click here.
