The Golden Saga

The Golden Saga

OUR OWN HIGH SCHOOL

Celebrating 50 years of Excellence

1968 - 2018

Then Our Founder Madam M. Varkey
Late Mr. K S V ark ey
The golden journey began with
a small step at Bastakiya with It was always my dream to have a school
just 27 students. of my own... The time has now come and I
feel confident that this little seed that we are
Now, The ‘Our Own’ family has grown sowing - will flower into a tree of promise.
This is my wish and hope...
OOW - Students - 4,671, Teaching Staff - 221, Non-Teaching Staff - 48
Mr. K S Varkey, September 1968

in leaps and bounds with two campuses - OOW and OOD

OOD - Students - 10,210, Teaching Staff - 503, Non-Teaching Staff - 279

Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018 Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018 1

The Pillar behind the Initiative

In 1961, Mrs. Mariamma Varkey joined her husband in the UAE. The Varkey family’s first venture was to
coach the local students in the English language. This coaching class located in Bur Dubai came to be
known as the Varkey School. Their task was not easy. They struggled to overcome the hurdles to keep the
communication open.

The next few years saw a rapid increase in the expatriate population. Mr K.S. Varkey, a man with great ability
to discern, felt the pulse of his times. He realized that the expatriates longed to keep their children here with
them and that would only be possible if there were schools for them. Towards this end he founded a modest
little school in 1968 and called it ‘Our Own’- a name that endears because of its inclusiveness, as if it were
reaching out with affection and care.

‘Our Own’ was housed in an old building which was fondly called the Bastakiya Building. It was a sapling
with just 27 children and 3 teachers but it was a sturdy sapling nurtured with care by the Varkey Family and
encouraged by the support of the local authorities. It grew steadily adding a class every year till it out grew
its old home. Some classes were transferred to the temporary portable cabins in Karama. Even this was
not enough. As it continued to grow in size and stature, the need for more space and facilities brought into
existence the building in Karama.

This move to the Zabeel area was indeed a big step in the fulfilment of a long cherished dream. Its affiliation
to the Central Board of Secondary Education, New Delhi, in 1982 was ample proof that ‘Our Own’ had finally
come of age.

From there, the growth was rapid. No looking back. Much of the growth and maturity of ‘Our Own’
can be ascribed to an illustrious line of very dedicated Principals and Headmistresses over the years.

Like the motto ‘Lead Kindly Light’, the teachers and leaders paved the way, leading the children to a brighter
future.

‘Our Own’ has indeed come a long way since its inception, 50 years ago. It has established standards of
excellence, discipline and care and continues to aspire forever greater heights.

Lead Kindly Light.

Thus, ‘Our Own’ creates history in the field of education!

2 Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018 Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018 3

The Legacy Continues

Few would have believed half a century ago that GEMS would have risen to the heights it has today in the global
arena. GEMS has, through the last 50 years, risen from its humble beginnings at Bastakia, Dubai in 1968 with 27
students and 3 teachers to one of the very few premier educational organizations in the world that is dedicated
towards providing excellence in education.

Today, it gives me immense pleasure to be an integral part of this profound growth, but more importantly, to
witness the organization move from strength to strength.

My heartfelt gratitude to the Leaders of the United Arab Emirates for their noble vision and generous encouragement
through these years in ensuring the importance of instilling outstanding education to the children in UAE. I take this
opportunity to thank the KHDA for their committed involvement in developing quality education and for paving the
path to the future of education through the fulfilment of Vision 2021.

The success of GEMS lies in the sincere and wholehearted contribution of every member of GEMS who selflessly
works towards, not only meeting expectations laid down, but also taking the initiative to go beyond, pursue and
achieve excellence.

We are today a family and a force to be reckoned with, in the educational sector of the world and it is all due to the
dedication and commitment of every individual in GEMS who has made a significant contribution in a constructive
and meaningful way through diligence and resoluteness.

As Our Own Schools (girls and boys), Dubai celebrate their 50th Anniversary, we experience a feeling of achievement
and satisfaction, together with the firm intention of remaining true to our principles in imparting the finest standards
in the field of education and behind this drive, is the constant desire to steer every challenge into an opportunity
to learn and excel.

I laud the sincere dedication of the professional teaching faculty in their contribution towards the all-round development
of the students and in faithfully instilling the GEMS core values in them. I am confident that we will continue to strive
harder to provide holistic education to the students thus moulding them for a rewarding career and a wonderful future.

Dear members of the Our Own family, you are much valued as you endeavor to raise the level of education year
after year.

We are certain that the face of education will not be the same a decade from today. However, we are confident that
we will empower our students with the much-needed skills for each decade to prepare them to be the leaders of
their tomorrows.

Sunny Varkey
Founder & Chairman

4 Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018 Hence,Celebrating 50 years‘Our Own’ ceof Excellence 1968 - 2018 lebrates 50 years of excellence5!

The road well travelled

1983 2005
1981 2011

The entire school shifted to the OOW - In May 2005, the
Oud Metha campus. The first boys were shifted to the
batch of Grade 10 appeared Al Warqa’a - 2 campus
for CBSE Examination. The with approximately
school strength shot up to 4,000 students and 200
5,000 students with 200 plus plus teachers.
teachers.
1968 Major part of the 1985 – The First batch of OOD - In September 2018
school shifted to students appeared for Grade 2011, the girls
porta cabins in 12 CBSE board examination. shifted to the
Karama. new campus at Al
Warqa’a - 3 with a
strength of 8,000
students and 400
plus teachers.

‘Our Own’ began to Today we stand tall
unfold in an old buiding with strength of 10,210
in the Bastakiya area students at OOD
behind the Old Diwan campus and 4,671
Amiri with 27 students students at the OOW
and three teachers campus.
in the month of
September 1968.

6 Celebrating 50 years ofOUER OxWcNeHlIlGeHnScCeHO1OL968 - 2018 Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018 7

the monumental pillars of 'Our Own'

Prof. Gee Varghese Mr. Oscar Lincoln Henderson

Director First Principal
1981-1983 1983 – 1989

Mrs. Dolly Nazareth Mr. Suresh Mathur

Headmistress Principal
1969 – 1981 1989 – 2000

Mrs. Maria Lopez “Gratitude makes “As we express our Mr. G. S. Madhav Rao
sense of our past, gratitude, we must
First Headmistress brings peace for never forget that the Executive Principal
1968 2000 – 2007

today and creates highest appreciation is not

a vision for to utter words but to live by
tomorrow.“ them. “8
Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018 Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018 9

The stellar leaders of 'our own'

OOW Mr. J. T. Mathai Mr. Ainsley Edgar OOD
Principal
Late Mr. Neville de Noronha 2005-2010 Principal & CEO
Principal & CEO Headmaster 2009-2011
2010-2011 1995-2005
Ms. Shobhana Verghese Mr. Aziz Akhtar
Mr. Sanjeev Jolly Dr. Farooq Ahmad Wasil Executive Principal
Principal & CEO Vice-Principal Executive Principal 2011-2014
April 2012 - till date 1985-1992 2007-2008
Executive Principal Mr. Thomas Mathew
1986-2012 Executive Principal
2014 – till date

Ms. Teresa Varman

Headmistress
2012-2017

Mr. Amail Habeeb Mr. M.A. Hamid Ms. Lalitha Suresh
First Vice-Principal
Headmaster Headmistress
Dr. Anjuli Murthy 1993-2008 2007-2012
Headmistress
2011-till date Mr. Richard Monterio “Leaders get Ms. Susan Varghese Ms. Asha Alexander
10 to the top and Headmistress - Primary & KG Officiating Principal
2007-2011 2016-till date 2007-2009
Assistant Headmaster
Ms. Asha Perichery 11
turn around Headmistress - Middle & Senior
2017-till date
to help others Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018

scale heights.“Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018

Long live 'our own'

Daisy Justus: OOW - 8th September 1980-till date Velukutty Murukesan: STS - Jan 1988-till date Akhyar Ahmad: OOW - 7th December 1981-till date Magdalene Antony: OOW

Education is the most vibrant and dynamic force, empowering young minds I joined as an office assistant, continued to work For 35 years, I have walked the path of duty among the now When I resigned my Government Job as a teacher in India to join my
to the changing and challenging times and needs. It is gratifying to see that as a library assistant, and then in the canteen. very familiar portals of ‘Our Own’, be it at the Oud Mehta husband in UAE little did I know that God had a plan for me to
‘Our Own’ has crossed several milestones in its journey to nurture and Later on went on to become a driver in 1992. campus or the Al Warqa’a Campus. It has been one great teach students of different nationalities in UAE.
groom young minds as sensitive individuals with strong values, who will Today I work as a trainer for all the STS inspirational journey of learning every day of my life
leverage their achievements to strengthen the fabric of the family, the drivers. spent at ‘Our Own’. In 1977, Mrs. Varkey appointed me as a teacher in the
community, the nation and the planet at large. I am truly blessed to have Bastakiya building. Mrs, Varkey treated us all like one big family.
been an intrinsic part of this saga for over three decades. I would love to I whole-heartedly thank the Varkey family for Talking about ‘Our Own’ has always been a pleasure It was a privilege working with her and her other family members.
all the help rendered to my family and personally for me and will continue to remain so. The memories I
see the flag of ‘Our Own’ continue to fly with all glory and might. assisting me at the time of need. carry with me will help me make a memoir. A quick flashback In the 80’s ‘Our Own’ shifted to Oud Metha. From there ‘Our
to December 7, 1981 which will linger in my mind as a treasured landmark in my Own’ grew in leaps and bounds under the leadership of various
My heartfelt gratitude goes to the Varkey family, the ‘Our Own’ staff and the students who I congratulate the school on its 50th Anniversary. teaching carrier. My journey in the UAE began from this date. Principals – Mr O L Henderson. Mr Suresh Mathur. Mr Madhav Rao, Mrs. Shobana
have always been my strength and inspiration. Varghese, Late Mr N. Noronha and Vice Principals- Mr Habeeb, Dr Wasl, Mr Hamid,
‘Our Own’ at that time was small and the only school of the present GEMS Mr Mathai. It was a great honor getting to know each one of them.
John Thomas: OOW - 6th June 1981-till date Esther Praveen: OOD - Head of Senior Section group and personally managed by Madam Mariamma Varkey with firm
affection. I found the school environment even then conducive to learning. It I would like to mention the fact that my three children were educated in ‘Our Own’
It is almost 37 years, that I am with the GEMS Group. I Year of Jubilee… A small seed – ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL, gives me immense pride to say that since then and through the years GEMS has and it came as no surprise when they decided to join their children in ‘Our Own’ too.
joined Our Own English School on 6th June 1981, leaving sowed 50 years ago has turned in to an excellent made the learning environment in its schools, irrespective of the curriculum ‘Our Own’ has also given me the chance to work with my daughter, Ms Betty Antony
educational institute, nurturing 21st century learners. they follow, even better by absorbing and adopting the latest developments in for 8 years.
my teaching job in Kerala. When I joined the school it was education. This is solely because GEMS believes in imparting the best to the
functioning in two old Arabic villas in Bur Dubai near the I am blessed to be associated with the history of this students. After decades in ‘Our Own’, I retired in 2010 with lots of fond memories working
Ruler’s office. The school then had classes up to Grade 7 great institution for nearly 28 years. Firstly, I would like with my supervisors, colleagues and teaching my dear students. When a student
and used text books that came from Lebanon. Nineteen to express my gratitude to the founder of this school Late As the years rolled by, several opportunities came my way to move to other messages or calls me to talk about what they are doing or to just say hello, I know that
buses plied between Sharjah and Dubai to pick up students Mr. K.S. Varkey. We must embody the vision which he had schools but the wonderful colleagues and the security that I have been enjoying in I have touched a life.
and teachers. Many a days during these trips, I had the pleasure cherished. ‘Our Own’ did not allow me to consider the thought.
of being in the company of Madame Varkey. The driver picked Madam from her It is all due to ‘Our Own’ and the work it continues doing that people like me have
luxurious villa in Jumeirah and myself from Satwa. This was at a time when I thank God for the dynamic leadership of the Principals, Headmasters and It is a journey of 35 years full of new learning, enriching activities and pure the opportunity to touch lives and make a change. Hope ‘Our Own’ continues growing
Mrs Varkey possessed several Benz cars and personal drivers. Supervisors of this great institution. I joined ‘Our Own’ in 1989 as senior Math enjoyment every moment. and making a difference.
teacher and professionally grew. I had a rewarding career as a successful Math For this, I am truly grateful to the Varkey Family.
I was given visa to Dubai as Mr Sunny Varkey and my father were school mates. teacher, Class teacher, House Mistress and Head of Department. Currently, I am Happy 50th year and many more to come!
And by the time I reached this city Mr. Sunny Varkey had already taken the reins of working as an Educational Supervisor.
the school. A new building was constructed in Zabeel [the present location of Gems Manisha Sharma: OOW Beena Ramakrishnan: OOW
Winchester School]. At times I had to perform duties of Principal to peon. When the Thousands of students have graduated from our prestigious school and I
school moved to Zabeel teachers requested Mrs. Varkey to put me in charge for setting truly feel proud that I have been their Math teacher. I have more than enough I began my journey with ‘Our Own’ It is a great honour and privilege to be associated with this esteemed organization.
up the Science labs. Ever since I am in that duty. memories to fondly recall and think over repeatedly. It gives me immense an overwhelming 26 years ago. To The journey of close to three decades has been enriching and fulfilling, both,
pleasure when I receive a call of my student in an unexpected location or when this day, I deem it one of the best personally and professionally. This wonderful institution has been a great source of
Truly our schools have grown a long way from its humble beginnings to the present I receive a message on social media. ‘Our Own’ students have become global decisions I’ve made during the course learning, growth and evolution for me.
highly sophisticated level ; and needless to say most of the credit goes to our citizens. of my life.
chairman and the staff he picked up for different purposes. Down the memory lane I joined ‘Our Own’ in 1991 to teach the boys. In those days the morning shift
there are many names of leaders, Principal Prof. Gee Varughese , Mrs. Nazareth, Mr. Thanks to the advanced technology! Today, I am just an email / phone call away When I began my career at ‘Our was for the girls and boys were taught in the afternoon. Though we worked in two
Henderson, Mr. Habib, Ms. Susan, Mr. K.A.Thomas, Mr. Mathur, Dr. Wasil, Mr. Mathai, from my students. I feel so proud when I hear their achievements and success Own’ in 1992, I was constantly enquired shifts, the school functioned as one unit. On week days we used to meet our
Mr.Naronah and the list goes on… stories. The Golden Jubilee celebrations offer us all an occasion to thank the about my reason to join ‘Our Own’ rather than Indian High colleagues who worked in the morning shift and had interactive sessions and shared best practices.
Almighty. It is a time of joy and thanksgiving and I pray that this great institution, School- where my father worked as Vice Principal at the Most of the classes were held in porta cabins. I started as a primary school teacher, gradually shifted
Love you ‘Our Own’- Happy 50th Birthday. which has been the mother of all the institutions to LEAD KINDLY LIGHT always. time. My answer has always remained the same - something to middle school and now I handle the secondary school students. Looking over the years the memories
God bless ‘Our Own’! in the name of this school: ‘Our Own’, had a predominant are nostalgic Over the years I have taken the responsibilities as team leader, examination coordinator,
impression of unity - and I still stand by this. When I went Science coordinator etc. The school has grown not only in infrastructure but also as a pillar of learning.
B Jayarama Somayaji: OOW Betty Antony: Student of OOD and Teacher of OOW through a personal struggle - ‘Our Own’ stood by me. When I
was bestowed with the beautiful title of a mother - ‘Our Own’ I have worked under different administrators and they all have contributed and mentored the person that
My journey at ‘Our Own’ from September 1986 to My journey with ‘Our Own’ began in the Bastakiya building. Even though it stood by me. ‘Our Own’ really lives up to its name because I I am today. I owe my sincere gratitude to all of them. I consider this as my second family. The uniqueness
July 2010 was very memorable. was my school, it felt more like my second home. While my mother, Mrs. know that we have all found ‘Our Own’ family within the walls of ‘Our Own’ family is the warm bonding that we share with our colleagues and students. Building a
Magdalene Antony, along with the other teachers and Mrs. Varkey did of this school. Happy birthday! community of learners that are able to make smart choices.
I started Teaching Physics to Senior Classes, extra tasks, me and my brother, Ajit Antony, played around as we waited I wish a very happy birthday!
produced excellent results consistently at Grade for the bus to come back after dropping the students to take us home.
XII examinations of CBSE., to become Academic Verena Pereira: OOW Nancy Cordeiro: OOW
Supervisor in March 2000. It wasn’t long before we shifted to the Karama building that my sister,
Manju Antony joined us. I spent thirty glorious years at ‘Our Own’ in the Boys Section . I began my career in this prestigious
I was actively involved in all the school activities like institution in the year 1991 as a
House master, Centre Superintendent of Board Examinations, Annual We enjoyed school as we had inspiring teachers, supervisors, head masters, head mistresses I joined on a warm sunny afternoon in September 1986 .I interacted with thousands receptionist and a typist. Appreciating
Day functions, Summer Camps. as well as Principals. All the Admin and Support staff too were responsible for taking care of us. of energetic lads .I gained wonderful experiences that made my teaching more my dedication and sincerity I was
wholesome and fulfilling . promoted as the secretary to the then
As a Supervisor, I was active in Teaching – Learning process of Through the metamorphosis of me growing in ‘Our Own’ from a student to a teacher the Headmaster Mr. John Mathai.
Children, workshops for Teachers, Extra Curricular activities and feeling of ‘Our Own’ being my second home never changed. I actually saw the growth of the school in many aspects. I witnessed the Grand
sports.. Silver Jubilee Celebrations in 1993 and the year they had the 40 year or Ruby I feel honoured for having worked with
It was a blessing to start working as a teacher along with my mother who was my mentor. Celebrations in 2008. I spent 21 years at the Oudh Metha Branch and the next 10 years six efficient Principals like Mr. Suresh Mathur, Mr. Madhav
As I am now relocated in Bengaluru, India, I fondly look back at the Working with my teachers as my colleagues is a memory that I will always cherish. at Al Warqa’a. My most joyful moments were when my ex students came with their Grade 12 mark sheets Rao, Mrs. Shobhana Varghese, Mr. John Mathai, Mr. Neville
memories at ‘Our Own’. to show them to me with pride and I joined in their happiness. The first Junior school leader Saad Iqbal Noronha and now with Mr. Sanjeev Jolly
When the time came for my daughter to join school, ‘Our Own’ was all we could think of. was from my first batch of students at ‘Our Own’ and Vishal Raj the Head boy of a year ago was also my
I convey each and every one, Best wishes on the occasion of the student . I am honoured and privileged to work for this esteemed
Golden Jubilee Celebrations. The feeling of being associated with GEMS as a parent, a teacher and an ex- student is institution. I thank Madam Varkey for giving me an
something that makes me count my blessings over and over again. I cherished my moments of glory and triumph when I won the Best Teacher Award in 2007. opportunity to explore my knowledge and render my service.
I loved the years I spent at this glorious and esteemed institution and may they keep the flag of ‘Our
Here is wishing my school a very happy 50th year and many more years of success and Own’ flying high forever and ever. Wish you a happy Fiftieth anniversary.
growth!
Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018 13
12 Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018

Long live 'our own'

Bindu Sreekumar: OOW Senior Supervisor Hadi Alam: Class of 2003 Anurag: Class of 2012 Kesavan: STS - 1977-till date

I joined ‘Our Own’ as a Science Teacher in 1995. Initially, it was just a ‘new job’…. Advisor – Mergers, Acquisitions & Walking through the gates of OOHS for the first time back in 2006, as a wide- I, P.K. Kesavan joined the Varkey family
but I soon realized that it was something that my heart had been sub-consciously Divestments eyed sixth grader, I was in awe of the tall buildings, large classrooms, and the in 1977 and I am still continuing my
seeking! And my life took a beautiful turn! duty as an Operation Manager in STS.
Royal Dutch Shell, Netherlands big personalities of my fellow students. Little did I know that my life was about During the time I joined the company
I grew professionally from a teacher to a Middle School Supervisor and the Senior to change, and that I would not only grow from a naive little boy to a mature Madam Varkey (Ammachi) was my
Secondary Supervisor over a span of 23 years. My interaction with my colleagues It doesn’t really feel like fifteen young adult, but that I would also walk away with friends, mentors, and direct boss as there were only few
and my team helped me to realize my own potential as well as support my co- years have passed since I bid farewell experiences that last a lifetime. ‘Our Own’, in no small way, prepared me for a employees. Gradually Madam Varkey
workers in their development. ‘Our Own’ is a ‘home’ and the ‘Our Own’ family is surely to ‘Our Own’, in large part, because the lifetime of growth. I was allowed to hone my leadership skills in the ranks of the
my ‘extended family’. As I walk down the corridors and meet my young lads in the classrooms, watching lessons learnt in school continue to guide prefectorial system and debate teams. I was taught teamwork and dedication on was impressed with me and started giving
them involved, collaborating, thinking and challenging themselves, it fills me with pride and fulfillment! me even today. Lessons about compassion, empathy and the dance floors and cricket fields. I learned about loyalty and integrity from my brothers-in-arms. me more responsibilities and thus started building up a
Teaching is indeed far more than a ‘job’ or a ‘career’ or even a ‘profession’…it is a ‘way of life’ for me. This leadership. School was never just about the learning of Most importantly, I was taught the virtues of selflessness and hard work by my dearest teachers. good relation between us. Even all personal duties of Madam
is all due to the wonderful institution, ‘Our Own’! facts, it was more about learning how to think, forming Since graduating in 2012, I’ve gone on to live multiple experiences and adventures in the United was given and they treated me not as an employee but as a
lifelong friendships and overcoming the fear of failure. States, China, and now India-- but at the core of the human I am today lie the founding principles family member and I was involved both in their happiness
I consider myself blessed in abundance as my association with ‘Our Own’ is not just as a faculty Making all this possible was the everlasting selfless love of that the most transformative years in my life engrained in me. For this, I will always be indebted to as well as sad moments. Still I am trying my level best and
member, but also as a parent. I am proud that both my children are alumni of ‘Our Own’. They both my teachers. ‘Our Own’. continuing the good relation with Madam Varkey and their
are successful individuals today and the credit largely goes to the strong foundation of knowledge and family.
character they have received at ‘Our Own’! It is surely not an overstatement when I say that we, as a family, On the occasion of its Golden Jubilee, I salute this great Anurag is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of YUVA Development Foundation, an NGO based in
at home, are living by the values inculcated and embedded in us from ‘Our Own’! institution for everything it stands for and for creating Mumbai. He was Headboy of OOHS during 2011-2012. Thank you Ma’am! Happy 50th Anniversary.
thousands of students who are ‘Leading the Light’ of
May the torch of knowledge and wisdom continue guiding us all for years to come! success and glory all over the world.

Nisham Mohideen: Class of 1991 Sudha Chidambaram: OOW - Supervisor Suma Cherian Mathew: OOD M.A.Hamid: Headmaster

Currently, I’m the Director - International Our Own High School is highly reputed for its highest standards in the field of I congratulate the school on its Golden It gives me great pleasure to know that ‘Our Own’ Dubai is celebrating its golden
sales at Al Islami Foods, Dubai education. I am very proud to be a part of this institution. Jubilee and wish the faculty and students jubilee – fifty years of providing all round quality education. From its humble
all the very best for all future endeavors. beginning of 27 students to today’s 10,000, it is indeed a great achievement.
‘Our Own’ moulded and shaped My journey in this wonderful school began in 1996, when I joined as a teacher in
my personality by their excellent the Primary Section. I learnt and developed as a teacher and was honoured to be I have witnessed the efficient This phenomenal rise of ‘Our Own’ has been possible because of the vision and
teachers. We were fortunate to grow selected a Supervisor in 2005. transformation of school to its dynamism of Mr. Sunny Varkey.
up with, both academically and in present stage and all credits go to the
extra curricular activities. We had the The working environment here has always been very conducive and I have enjoyed vision and hard work of management, I am proud that I had the opportunity and privilege to work as Headmaster of ‘Our
great fortune of having exceptional every moment of it. We work as a family to equip the students under our care, with the teachers and students. Own’ for 15 years. I fondly remember the band of professional and dedicated teachers
leadership in Mr Oscar Henderson, one of the best knowledge and skills they need, to go into the practical world with enthusiasm and confidence. As an that we had, not to mention such talented and affectionate children. The students of ‘Our Own’ were
Principals ‘Our Own’ ever had upto year 1989 / 90 and Academic Supervisor, I have been privileged to work with a great team of dedicated teachers who are Once again I wish all the very best to the school to go to simply outstanding not only in academics but also in sports and cultural activities.
then Mr Suresh Mathur carrying on. Being one of the early always willing to walk the extra mile with their students.It has been a joyful experience throughout! much greater heights and to impart knowledge to several
batches, we literally grew up with the new school (we were million students around the world. ‘Our Own’’s meteoric rise gives me a great sense of pride. I wish them the very best.
amongst the first to start at the brand new OOEHS at Teaching is such a rewarding profession! It has so many facets worth mentioning, such as… to explore, to
Oud Mehtha when it first opened) the fresh coat paint still connect, to share and to learn. Mark Mathews Stanley: Class of 2011 Haroon Ahmed: Headmaster ‘Our Own’ Fujairah
lingers in memory! This was when I was in Grade 3 or 4.
Prior to this we were at Bastakiya from Kg to grade 2 - all Our responsibility today is very high as it is imperative to develop innovators and creative thinkers to face I did most of my schooling from ‘Our Own’ High School, Dubai from Grade II to Time flies at an amazing speed
lovely memories! this challenging world. Let’s keep it going and growing at a faster pace. Grade XII. I strongly believe that my passion in Media and Filmmaking was incepted making thirty-five years considerably
shorter especially looking back
This lovely journey will continue with wonderful cherished memories of the past and the zeal to walk in OOHS. I credit my Alma Mater for being instrumental in exposing me to creative from the vantage point of a Deputy
into the future, sincerely moulding young minds! activities including Public Speaking and Theatre that were promoted by the school’s Head of a famous school. The
enthusiastic staff and administration all through my youth. In my final year, I served initial placement as a teacher, the
Neelima Nanda: OOW - Supervisor Eva Salins: OOD Yadav Singh: OOW as Neptune House Captain. Along with the highly valued guidance from my teachers recognition of the Best Teacher, higher
and the strong support of my peers, my house proved its distinction in a myriad responsibilities as a Supervisor.. all
My Journey through ‘Our Own’ “Congratulations OOEHS I joined GEMS on 12th April 1989 at number of events ranging from debates, elocutions and quizzes to various forms of sports began from Our Own English High School, Dubai. These
Dubai on completing the age of 26. In other words I can say including basketball, cricket, football and table tennis during the Academic Year 2010-11. evergreen roots supported me scale greater heights
‘Our Own’ has been 50 Golden years in the that ‘Our Own’ has been more than half and receive international acclaim. Though working at
a temple of learning, my life. My latest achievements in filmmaking include winning the coveted Mansoor Bin Mohammed Short Film a different station today, the engraved memories of
growth and evolution U.A.E. I am very happy Award, for my Autism Awareness Film, “CONNECTION” (bit.ly/connectionshort) and additionally bagging camaraderie and team spirit still glows and I still feel the
for me, both personally and proud that I too I first joined The Modern High School the Young Filmmakers Award for Social Relevance at the Emirates Short Film Festival 2018 along with 6 pulse of this school.
and professionally. I have had the good fortune (GMA) as Computer Science teacher prestigious nominations in all the major categories. I have also acted in a global web-series titled “A Billion
been associated with this of being part of it for 27 for Grade 11 & 12 students, but that time To One” by CollabFeature that is currently airing on Amazon Prime and Vimeo On Demand. ‘Our Own’ Dubai, remembering you with overflowing joy
prestigious institution for 25 years. The kind and loving they had classes only till Grade 10 so I requested them to and pride.
years…. It has been an exciting on-going journey. messages I still receive from my students and give me Grade 11 & 12 for teaching Computer Science or All this and more I credit to you my ‘Our Own’.You have made me what Iam today. Happiest 50th
colleagues, gives me strength and pleasure in send me back to India. I was sent to ‘Our Own’ English High Anniversary to you!
It has been fulfilling to be in an environment my retirement. I miss every moment spent at School, Dubai on 9th September 1989. Since then I have
dedicated to moulding young minds achieve ‘Our Own’, and the memories of those golden been working with ‘Our Own’. We had girls classes in the Lowesy Dominic: OOW Gita Srikumar: OOD
their potential, to finding their best selves. I have days will always be cherished by myself and morning and boys classes in the afternoon. I have been Head “I first stepped into the school as mother of a 2 year-old. 26 The name ‘GEMS ‘Our Own’’ is embedded in the minds of
always received a lot of encouragement from the my daughters; Michelle and Charmaine who of Computer Department for more than two decades. years later, I now step out as a grandmother of a 2 year old. expatriate community as a synonym of Education. Being in
management, principals and vice-principals, I studied there. With nearly a lifetime spent teaching in this school, ‘Our Own’ association with it has been always a proud privilege for me. My
have worked with. I have not taken any leave for 23 times in various academic has become my own family. Every moment spent at ‘Our 25 years tenure with ‘Our Own’ has earned me a huge wealth of
As ‘Our Own’ celebrates its Golden Jubilee, years. Own’ has been etched in my memory forever to stay and that thousands of students who are now spread all over the world.
I am forever grateful for the stimulating we would like to extend our gratitude and will be the legacy I will uphold as I walk in to my next phase of In our current relaxed life, I always find it a good pastime to
journey and the enormous collection of shared best wishes for the future to Madam Varkey I am thankful to the Management and SLT members for
experiences indelibly printed on my mind. and the entire family. giving me an opportunity to work in this big family of ‘Our life. I hope and pray that ‘Our Own’ lives on to cross many more reminisce the sweet memories of my life in ‘Our Own’.
Own’. I am thankful to all at ‘Our Own’ for being part of my milestones in its illustrious life.” I wish all the best to GEMS ‘Our Own’ Group.
May ‘Our Own’ continue to grow from strength God bless them and the wonderful work two sons early education and welfare. All the very best wishes on this occasion.
to strength. they do! 15
Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018
14 Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018

Long live 'our own'

Saad Mohammad Shakir: Class of 2009 Fazalur Rahman: Muhammad Shiju Usman: PR Assistant 1996-till date Abhilash Sundarasan: Class of 2007 Sony Mathew: Class of 1989
STS- 1995-till Tansawar Butt:
Fifty years of sheer Marvelous experience! date 1997-till date I joined in 1996 December as a I walked into ‘Our Own’ as a little boy Software Architect
conductor later on in 2005, I and left as a confident man ready to
That’s the least which can be said about this journey of our school. An institution which has take on this world. Today when I look Great school and
remained since its inception, and in the most literal sense - “Our Own’! I cannot quantify my trained and became a driver. back, my choicest memories and great teachers. Was
joy at being given a chance of being part of this historical milestone of our school and I’m From 2008, I was incharge of lifelong friendships were made there, fun being a part of
sure we have many more to come. the SSA. In 2014, I got a chance along with a desire to succeed and be this institution!
to move on as a PR Assistant. the best at whatever I do.
My chubby and tender little being walked into these corridors for the first time, holding Thank you ‘Our Own’! Happy 50th Year
onto my towering elder’s finger, in 1994. LKG it was. Our day started at 9-10 AM in the I would like to thank and many more to
mornings, had leisure breakfast and then attended school from 1pm – 6:20pm. The school was wholeheartedly Madam Varkey for Current designation – Specialist registrar (SpR) in general come.
starting to show its effects on me. Gradually as the years went by, our classes went on and her continuous support and help whenever needed. and vascular surgery
teachers, one after the other and each an artist in their own way, walked into our minds everyday with a chisel and I wish the school a very happy 50th Anniversary.
sculptured our personalities! It was in the IXth standard when we were told they are shifting the boys and into our new
building at Al-Warqa’a. We wish the school a very happy 50th Vinod Balan: Class of 1991
Anniversary. Current: International Business Manager at Samsung Gulf Electronics
With the grace of the Almighty I completed my MBBS in 2013 from India, and I am currently pursuing my Post Started the journey from the Bastakya and passed out from the Oud Mehta campus.
Graduation in Medicine (MD) from India itself. Keba Jeremiah: Class of 2004 Looking back, it was an amazing 14 years... made a whole lot of life long friends. I have had some of the most dedicated teachers who helped to mould
me as the person I am today!
I shall forever remain indebted to all my teachers throughout my life, but I believe it’s the school which shapes a OOEHS will always be Always been proud to introduce myself as an ‘Our Own’ Alumni and happy to be still associated with the school as an Alumni.
person more than anything. Mentioning the names of all my teachers here would be a demanding task, one if not done close to my heart as
in completion would be injustice to every person who has painted a brush across my empty canvas in whatever capacity it helped me build a
during my journey from that tender chubby little me on towards being a student of Life today. Reach to whatever heights I foundation that I will
may, but my roots shall forever remain bound to my beginning at ‘Our Own’ High School! use my whole life.
The education and life
Concluding in Plato’s great words: “The beginning is the most important part of the work.” lessons imparted by my
teachers have been the keys
Libu Oomen: Class of 1992 Jitin Rajan Daniel: Class of 2010 to unlock the many avenues that I explore
now. The importance to art form and music
Current occupation: Business Working in Prominent Insurance helped me become the musician that I
development manager with Al Brokers as Supervisor – Medical am today. I will always cherish the fond
Khayat Contracting L.L.C Insurance memories of school and I will have to admit
that I miss it.
I had one of my best days at Very important and
‘Our Own’, I made a lot of friends memorable part of my Congrats on the 50th Anniversary
with whom I am still in touch. childhood Celebration !!!
Most of all, I would like to thank my
teachers for helping me achieve this future I have now. Happy 50th Year and many more to
come.
Congrats on the 50th Anniversary.

Ajit Antony: Class of 1991 Anita Mendonca: Parent and PAC member

Working at present as a Senior MEMORIES... of a proud mother who entered the gates of ‘Our Own’ in April 1996 with
–Manager Operations in GWC a shy, timid child, followed by her siblings a few years later. Under the leader ship of six
Logistics in Qatar. Principals during their schooling tenure, thanks to a dedicated, sincere, caring faculty and

My mother, Mrs. Magdalene staff, my three tiny tots blossomed as the years rolled by, with sky high achievements
Antony also happened to be my becoming leaders and all rounders. They stand today as confident alumni of the school,
first class teacher in ‘Our Own’. well placed in their respective Universities/place of work.

Our school life was filled with fun And that is not all – during their last few years, I joined the Parent Advisory Committee, an
and mischief. All the students studied as hard as they initiative for parents by the warm welcoming spirit of ‘Our Own’. Being the President of this
played. We are proud to be a part of this esteemed Committee has been such an honor and privilege, which will be cherished for life.
institution. May it continue to grow educating students
to reach their goals. Best wishes to ‘Our Own’ on completing 50 glorious years. May our school continue to illumine the hearts and
minds of all in their care.
Happy 50th Year and many more to come.
Ex President – PAC Mother of Clarice Mendonca (1996-2010), Winston Mendonca (1997-2011) and Austin
Mendonca (2003-2017)

Shashank Kidiyur Sathish: Class of 2008 Mustan Zoeb: Class of 1986 ‘Our Own’ continues to lead the light of 17
Designation in school: Deputy Head Boy Currently working with a travel agency Lulu International Futuristic Education!
Current Designation: Program Manager, Amazon UK Travel a part of the Lulu Group as Travel Manager.
‘Our Own’ has taught me an important tenet that I fiercely I really had a good time in ‘Our Own’ with Mrs. Varkey Over 250 schools in 13 countries, catering to six world-
adhere to even today - Perseverance. From our teachers’ a visionary. Our commerce teacher Mrs. Fenn was kind class curricula, GEMS, has carved a niche for itself as a
continuous drive to bring out the best in their pupils to the tenacity and good.
Best wishes to ‘Our Own’ on completing 50 glorious leading educational provider, globally.
of each of us alumni to be a bright shining light in this world.
I hope and believe that ‘Our Own’ will persevere to greater heights. years. Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018

16 Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018

Core values

Part of our DNA for 50 years

PO Box 35519, Al Warqa’a, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Tel: +971 (0)4 280 0077, Fax: +971 (0)4 280 0076
E-mail: [email protected], Website : www. gemsoo-alwarqa.com
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18 Celebrating 50 years of Excellence 1968 - 2018