Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future

When Sanjana Khullar looks back on her journey, she doesn't just see a qualification or a career milestone. She sees every early morning, every long commute, every late-night assignment, every moment she chose not to give up, and the unwavering support of her family, whose love, encouragement and values gave her the confidence to pursue the career she had always dreamed of.

Originally from India, Sanjana moved to New Zealand after getting married, carrying with her a passion for education and a dream of building a meaningful future. Although she already had teaching experience, starting again in a new country came with challenges she never expected.

Finding a permanent role in early childhood education wasn't easy. At one point, she was juggling multiple jobs while taking relieving shifts at several early childhood centres, travelling long distances between Ashburton and Christchurch and studying whenever she could find the time.

"There were moments when I questioned whether I could continue," she reflects. "But I never wanted to give up on the dream I had worked so hard to achieve."

For Sanjana, early childhood education has never been just a profession. It is a calling.

"I believe every child deserves to be seen, heard, valued, and supported to reach their full potential. Knowing that I can play even a small part in shaping a child's confidence, wellbeing, and future is both a privilege and a responsibility."

Her upbringing in India continues to shape the educator she is today. Raised with strong family values centred on respect, kindness, hard work and education, she naturally brings those same principles into her teaching every day. Just as importantly, her own experience of adapting to a new country has given her a deeper understanding of the diverse backgrounds, cultures and experiences that children and whānau bring with them.

"Being from another country has become one of my strengths," she says. "It allows me to celebrate diversity and build meaningful relationships with children and families from different backgrounds."

That perspective became even stronger while studying the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education) through New Zealand Tertiary College.

Sanjana chose NZTC because she wanted more than a qualification. She wanted an education that reflected the values and practices of early childhood education in Aotearoa New Zealand and would help her grow into a confident, reflective and compassionate teacher.

"When I decided to pursue early childhood education, I wanted an institution that would not only provide me with a qualification but would also help me develop the knowledge, confidence, and professional values needed to become a meaningful educator. NZTC stood out to me because of its strong focus on relationships, child-centered learning, reflective practice, and preparing teachers to work within the unique bicultural context of New Zealand.”

Studying online gave her the flexibility to continue working full-time while balancing assignments and family life. Although it required discipline and careful organisation, she says the support from NZTC's lecturers, learning resources and online environment helped her stay motivated throughout her journey.

"The flexibility of NZTC Online allowed me to continue working while achieving my qualification, and the support I received gave me the confidence to keep going."

One paper, in particular, had a lasting impact on the way she teaches today: EC737 – Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Bicultural Practice.

The course deepened her understanding of how relationships, respect and cultural identity are central to children's learning and wellbeing. More importantly, it showed her that honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi is not simply something teachers learn about, it is something they demonstrate every day through genuine relationships with tamariki and whānau, and by creating environments where every child feels they belong.

Today, those lessons are woven into her daily practice. Whether she is welcoming families into the centre, planning meaningful learning experiences or celebrating each child's unique identity and culture, Sanjana is committed to creating an inclusive environment where every child feels valued.

The most rewarding part of her work isn't found in big milestones, but in the small moments.

"I love the way children see the world with so much curiosity," she says. "When they proudly share their discoveries, ask questions or even call me by their own special versions of my name, those moments remind me why I chose this profession."

Behind every achievement has been the unwavering support of her husband and family, who encouraged her through every challenge and constantly reminded her to keep believing in herself. Their faith in her became the foundation for her own resilience, and today she shares that same message with others who are balancing work and study.

"Most importantly, remember why you started your journey," she advises. "There will be challenging days, but those moments help you grow stronger. Celebrate every small achievement, ask for support when you need it, and keep moving forward."

Looking back, Sanjana becomes emotional reflecting on everything she has overcome. Rebuilding a career in a new country, balancing full-time work with study and achieving her qualification were not simply professional accomplishments, they were personal victories that strengthened her confidence and reaffirmed her purpose.

Today, she is proud of how far she has come and excited for what lies ahead. She hopes her journey reminds others that success rarely happens overnight, but with resilience, support and a clear sense of purpose, even the biggest dreams can become reality.