When Aarna Menocha, an 11th grader at The Hun School of Princeton, applied to become a Zoom Teacher and Student Ambassador with SmartKids Ghana, what stood out most was not just her academic background, it was her heart.

Aarna shared something very simple, yet very powerful education has always been important to her. She recognizes that she has been fortunate to study in strong academic environments, and that awareness has shaped the way she sees the world. She understands that access to quality education is not equal everywhere and instead of ignoring that reality, she has chosen to do something about it.

What makes Aarna’s story even more meaningful is that service is already part of her life. When she travels to India, she teaches children there. That experience opened her eyes even more to how impactful education can be when students are given the right support. It also strengthened her desire to give back in a deeper, more consistent way.

Having lived in multiple countries, Aarna has experienced different cultures, teaching styles, and learning systems. She has seen firsthand how education can look very different depending on where you are in the world. Those experiences didn’t just broaden her perspective they inspired her. They made her want to share her knowledge and help make learning more accessible and empowering for others.

She also brings real teaching experience to this role. Aarna tutors students and teaches math through Schoolhouse, where she helps other students understand challenging concepts. She already knows how to explain ideas clearly, encourage confidence, and support learners at different levels. That foundation will make a powerful difference in her Zoom classroom.

As a first-time volunteer with SmartKids Ghana, Aarna has committed to teaching for six consecutive Saturdays and completing her fundraising by the deadline. That commitment speaks volumes. It shows responsibility, dedication, and a genuine belief in the mission.

What I admire most about Aarna is that her motivation is rooted in gratitude. She recognizes the opportunities she has been given, and instead of keeping them to herself, she is choosing to extend them to others.

We are incredibly proud to welcome Aarna Menocha to the SmartKids Ghana family. I truly believe the students she teaches will not only learn from her academically, but will also feel encouraged and inspired by her global perspective and sincere heart for service.

This is just the beginning of her journey with us and I have no doubt she is going to make a lasting impact.