The Global Teacher Prize, established by the Varkey Foundation in 2014, is an esteemed international accolade that recognises exceptional educators who have made significant contributions to the profession. Often referred to as the “Nobel Prize for Teaching,” this annual award honours teachers who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to their students and communities, often overcoming substantial challenges to provide quality education. The prize not only celebrates individual excellence but also underscores the pivotal role teachers play in shaping societies worldwide. With a substantial reward of US $1 million, the Global Teacher Prize highlights the importance of education and aims to elevate the status of teaching globally. Here are the winners of this award from 2015 till date.
Nancie Atwell (2015)
In 2015, Nancie Atwell, an English teacher from Maine, USA, became the inaugural recipient of the Global Teacher Prize. With over four decades of teaching experience, Atwell founded the Center for Teaching and Learning, an independent demonstration school dedicated to developing and disseminating effective teaching practices. Her innovative approach emphasises reading and writing workshop models, encouraging students to choose their own books and topics, thereby fostering a genuine love for literature and composition. Atwell’s methods have significantly influenced literacy education, and she has authored several acclaimed books on teaching, including In the Middle, which has inspired educators worldwide.
Hanan Al Hroub (2016)
Palestinian educator Hanan Al Hroub was honoured with the Global Teacher Prize in 2016 for her dedication to teaching children affected by violence. Growing up in a refugee camp and experiencing firsthand the impact of conflict, Al Hroub developed a unique approach centred on “No to Violence”, promoting peaceful behaviour through specialised games and activities. Her methods focus on fostering trust, respect, and literacy among students, creating a safe and supportive learning environment. Al Hroub’s work has been instrumental in reducing violent behaviour in schools and has provided a model for educators in similar contexts globally.
Maggie MacDonnell (2017)
In 2017, Canadian teacher Maggie MacDonnell received the Global Teacher Prize for her transformative work in Salluit, an Inuit village in the Canadian Arctic. Facing harsh conditions and high rates of suicide among youth, MacDonnell implemented life-skills programmes aimed at promoting health, wellness, and community engagement. Her initiatives included a fitness centre, a community kitchen, and environmental stewardship projects, all designed to empower students and address social issues such as substance abuse and gender inequality. MacDonnell’s holistic approach has had a profound impact on her students and the broader community, fostering resilience and hope in a challenging environment.
Andria Zafirakou (2018)
Andria Zafirakou, an art and textiles teacher from London, UK, was awarded the Global Teacher Prize in 2018 for her exceptional commitment to her students in one of the country’s most ethnically diverse and disadvantaged communities. Teaching at Alperton Community School, Zafirakou learned basic phrases in 35 languages to communicate effectively with her students and their families. She redesigned the art curriculum to be culturally inclusive and established extracurricular programmes to keep vulnerable students engaged. Her efforts have significantly improved student attendance and achievement, highlighting the importance of cultural understanding and personal connection in education.
Peter Tabichi (2019)
Kenyan science teacher and Franciscan friar Peter Tabichi won the Global Teacher Prize in 2019 for his dedication to students in a rural, under-resourced school. Teaching at Keriko Mixed Day Secondary School in Pwani Village, Tabichi donated 80% of his income to support students and the community. He introduced innovative teaching methods, including the use of ICT in a school with limited resources, and mentored students to participate in national and international science competitions. His efforts led to improved academic performance and instilled a sense of pride and ambition among his students, demonstrating the profound impact of selflessness and innovation in education.
Ranjitsinh Disale (2020)
In 2020, Indian teacher Ranjitsinh Disale was honoured with the Global Teacher Prize for his work in promoting girls’ education and introducing QR-coded textbooks in India. Teaching at Zilla Parishad Primary School in Paritewadi, Maharashtra, Disale translated textbooks into the local language and embedded them with QR codes to provide students with additional learning resources, including audio poems, video lectures, and assignments. His innovative approach led to a significant increase in female student attendance and performance. Notably, Disale shared half of his $1 million prize with his fellow finalists to support their educational initiatives, exemplifying generosity and collaboration in the global teaching community.
Keishia Thorpe (2021)
American educator Keishia Thorpe received the Global Teacher Prize in 2021 for her work with low-income, immigrant, and refugee students. Teaching English at International High School Langley Park in Maryland, Thorpe redesigned the curriculum to make it culturally relevant and accessible, helping her students achieve high academic standards and secure scholarships for higher education. Her dedication to equity and inclusion has opened doors for numerous students who might otherwise have faced significant barriers to academic success.
Sister Zeph (2023)
Pakistani educator Sister Zeph was awarded the Global Teacher Prize in 2023 for her unwavering commitment to providing free education to underprivileged children, particularly girls, in rural Pakistan. Starting her own school at the age of 13, Sister Zeph overcame societal challenges to offer quality education to those who lacked access. Her school focuses on empowering students through academic learning and vocational training, enabling them to become self-reliant and break the cycle of poverty. Her dedication has transformed the lives of many young girls in her community.
Mansour Al Mansour (2025)
In 2025, Saudi educator Mansour Al Mansour was honoured with the Global Teacher Prize for his visionary approach to education and extensive humanitarian efforts. Teaching at Prince Saud bin Jalawi School in Al-Ahsa, Al Mansour emphasised life skills such as happiness and sustainability, tailoring his methods to meet individual student needs and actively involving families in the learning process. He integrated project-based learning to address real-world issues like climate change and social responsibility. His win was announced in the 13th of February, 2025.
