Educators & Specialty Instructors
Marina Bay Academy programs are designed to meet the needs of both children and families through specific goals and objectives. We focus on building off the strengths of each child, taking advantage of every teachable moment. During our extra-curricular activities, children will have the opportunity to develop social skills, enhance cognitive development, and build self-esteem. At Marina Bay Academy, we offer Zumba, Music and Movement, English and French, Soccer, Taekwondo with Master Kiho, Yoga, and Ballet.
Lead Educator, Licensed Early Childhood & Education / Infant & Toddler
Katayoun Abidi was born and raised in Iran and has always had a deep passion for learning and exploring different cultures. After high school, she moved to Turkey, where she continued her education and became fluent in Turkish. Her academic journey then led her to Australia, where she completed her studies in architecture and interior architecture—building on her foundation from Iran.
After relocating to Canada, Katayoun discovered her true calling in early childhood education. She pursued further studies in both the Montessori method and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, and thoughtfully integrates elements from both approaches to create enriching classroom experiences.
With over 14 years of experience working with young children—particularly those aged 3 to 5—Katayoun has served as both a head teacher and supervisor. She is passionate about designing engaging lesson plans, organizing special events such as Mother’s Day, Christmas, and graduation celebrations, and creating a classroom environment where children feel inspired to explore, express themselves, and grow. Her strong understanding of the IB framework allows her to meaningfully connect lessons to Units of Inquiry, and she uses art as a powerful tool for learning, enabling children to express their thoughts, feelings, and creativity.
We are proud to have Katayoun as part of the Marina Bay Academy team, where she brings warmth, depth, and dedication to each child’s unique learning journey through play, discovery, and connection.
Lead Educator, Licensed Early Childhood & Education / Infant & Toddler
Naz is a dedicated Early Childhood Educator with a strong passion for creating nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environments for young children. She holds a Master’s degree in Teaching English Language and an Early Childhood Education Certificate from Vancouver Career College. She is currently expanding her expertise as an Infant Toddler (IT) student, further deepening her understanding of early developmental stages.
With over 10 years of experience working with children aged 3 to 15, Naz is committed to fostering creativity, curiosity, and a love of learning through play-based and child-centered approaches.
We are thrilled to have Naz as part of the Marina Bay Childcare team, where she brings warmth, experience, and a deep commitment to supporting each child’s early learning journey and helping them build the essential skills they need for the future.
Educator, Licenced Early Childhood & Education / Infant & Toddler
Mitsuko Asano is a thoughtful and dedicated Early Childhood Educator who brings a global perspective and a deep sense of purpose to her role at Marina Bay Academy. Originally from Japan, Mitsuko was profoundly moved by the kindness, thoughtfulness, and confidence she encountered upon arriving in Canada—an experience that sparked her interest in understanding how such qualities are nurtured from a young age.
Driven by that curiosity, Mitsuko pursued studies in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and discovered the lasting impact that early learning environments have on a child’s emotional, physical, and social development. Her journey has shaped her into a lifelong learner and a committed advocate for supportive, play-based education.
Educator, Licensed Early Childhood & Education
Reyhaneh Roghaniha is currently pursuing her Early Childhood Education (ECE) studies at CDI College. She has a deep passion for working with young children and finds great joy in supporting their growth, learning, and emotional development.
Reyhaneh believes that every child holds a unique world within them, and with love, patience, and understanding, she strives to create a safe and inspiring environment where they can thrive.
She often connects with children through art and drawing, using creativity and colors to explore their feelings, nurture their imagination, and encourage meaningful self-expression. Her goal is to inspire a lifelong love of learning while helping children build confidence, kindness, and curiosity as they discover the world around them.
Educator, Licensed Early Childhood & Education Assistant
Fataneh Sarbandi is an experienced Early Childhood Educator Assistant (ECEA) with over 28 years of dedication to early childhood education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Preschool Education from Allameh Tabataba’i University in Iran.
Educator, Licensed Early Childhood & Education
Behnaz is a dedicated Early Childhood Educator with a strong passion for working with young children. She has completed her ECE certification in Canada and currently holds a valid certification.
With experience in daycare settings, Behnaz has supported children’s learning, development, and emotional well-being through play-based and age-appropriate activities. She is patient, caring, and deeply committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where every child can grow and thrive.
Educator, Licensed Early Childhood & Education
Natsuki is a certified Early Childhood Educator originally from Okinawa, Japan. She currently works with preschool-aged children in Vancouver and is passionate about supporting them during this important stage of growth and development.
With a focus on creating a calm, inclusive, and engaging environment, Natsuki helps children feel safe to express themselves, build confidence, and develop meaningful relationships. She strongly believes in the power of play-based learning and is dedicated to fostering each child’s emotional and social growth through kindness, patience, and creativity.
Educator, Licensed Early Childhood & Education Assistant
Lida holds a degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and brings over 12 years of experience working in daycare environments. Her deep passion for nurturing young minds and her genuine love for children shine through in everything she does. Inspired daily by their positive energy, Lida finds immense joy and fulfillment in creating a caring and engaging atmosphere where every child feels valued and supported.
Educator, Licensed Early Childhood & Education / Infant & Toddler
Helen is a certified Early Childhood Educator (ECE) and Infant & Toddler Educator in British Columbia. Originally from Beijing, China, she has 17 years of experience in sales and management before transitioning into education. Her early education experience included programs focused on art, history, culture, and architecture.
After moving to Canada, Helen chose Early Childhood Education as her long-term career. She completed her ECE studies at Vancouver Career College and continued her education in Infant and Toddler Education. She has experience working with infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children in licensed childcare settings.
Helen believes every child is unique and deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued. Her approach is calm, gentle, and consistent, with a strong belief in learning through play. She enjoys building warm relationships with children and families and creating an engaging environment where children can explore, build confidence, and grow at their own pace.
778-984-3200
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