Megan-Lee Pretorius Transitions into a New Role

I have been part of the ISL community since 2020 and have had the privilege of teaching a range of age groups during my time at the school. Working across different year levels has strengthened my passion for supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. After transitioning back into Year 1, my passion for Learning Support was reignited, particularly in supporting students who experience challenges in early literacy and numeracy. I find great fulfilment in working with students in small groups and one-on-one settings, providing targeted support and watching their confidence and understanding grow.

With ten years of teaching experience, I bring a flexible and reflective approach to education. I hold a B.Ed Honours degree in Learning Support and a Master’s degree in Curriculum Studies. I value creating inclusive learning environments where every child feels seen, supported, and capable of success. I am excited to begin this new chapter as a Learning Support Teacher and look forward to working alongside students, families, and colleagues in this role.

Sune Opperman Transitions into a New Role

Originally from South Africa, I have been working in education for the past 10 years and have proudly been part of the ISL community for the last two years. During my time at ISL, I have taught across a range of Secondary English year groups, supported students through IGCSE preparation, and become actively involved in the wider life of the school through sports coaching and student leadership opportunities.

I hold a Bachelor of Education degree, along with a background in Sport Psychology, which has strongly influenced both my teaching philosophy and my passion for student well-being. I believe in creating engaging learning environments where students feel challenged, supported, and encouraged to grow in confidence both academically and personally.

I am especially excited to be joining the Student Support Services (SSS) Department, as it closely aligns with my passion for student well-being and personal development. My background in Sport Psychology has given me a deeper understanding of the importance of emotional resilience, motivation, and holistic student support, and I look forward to contributing to an environment where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Regina Mwango Daka Expands Her Teaching Role

I am excited to be a part-time Social Studies teacher in addition to my part-time English role in August. With over a decade of experience teaching Cambridge IGCSE English, Literature, and History, I have previously taught at Simba School in Ndola and Chengelo School in Mkushi. I am passionate about creating engaging and inclusive learning environments that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and confident communication.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts with Education degree from the University of Zambia and a Master’s degree in Education Administration and Management. I am deeply committed to student-centred learning and enjoy helping students develop both academically and personally.

Outside the classroom, I am passionate about cultivating cultural awareness and global citizenship through education, with vast experience participating in Model United Nations conferences both locally and internationally (In the United States and Greece). In my spare time, I enjoy travelling and exploring new places and people, both locally and internationally, as well as reading and spending time with family and friends.

I look forward to reconnecting with the ISL community, the students, families, and colleagues in the year ahead.

Welcome Back, Dennis Simbaya - Part-Time - Spanish Teacher

My name is Dennis Simbaya, and I am a Zambian teacher of Spanish with over 15 years of teaching experience in both primary and secondary education. 

I recently completed a Master of Science in Monitoring and Evaluation (Educational Systems) in 2026 from ZCAS University. I also hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching Methodology and Leadership from Copperbelt University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language from Madrid, Spain, and a Bachelor of Agronomic Engineering from the Universidad de Ciego de Ávila, Cuba. My studies and experiences in Cuba and Spain greatly shaped my passion for the Spanish language and culture, as well as my belief in the power of language learning to promote global understanding and meaningful cultural connections.

Over the past 15 years, I have taught in diverse international and multicultural environments. I have worked at International School of Lusaka, French International School of Lusaka, and Livingstone International School, serving as a Specialist Teacher, Secondary Teacher, Primary Teacher, and Child Protection Lead.

Now Joining Full-Time: Juliana Mpundu Simutowe - Primary Teacher, August 2026

My name is Juliana Mpundu Simutowe, and I am delighted to be joining ISL on a full-time basis. I am excited to meet my students and their families and look forward to building a positive and supportive learning community together.

I lived and worked in the Netherlands from 2016 to 2023. Before transitioning into education, I worked in social services and social welfare, experiences that shaped my passion for supporting the well-being and development of children. My teaching journey began in 2019 at HSV Special Education (De Haagsche Schoolvereeniging), where I worked for two years. I then joined the International School of The Hague, where I worked for one and a half years before returning to Zambia.

I hold a certification in Supporting Teaching and Learning from the Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education (CACHE) UK, a qualification in Social Work and Social Welfare from the University of Zambia, and a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Psychology from the Cyprus Institute of Marketing.

Meet Francesca Cooke - Primary Teacher, August 2026

Francesca originally comes from the UK, but Zambia stole her heart; she's been here for 11 years. Her love of Zambia started with a passion for the natural world, and her first career was spent working in wildlife conservation and environmental education across rural Zambia, helping communities, and especially young people, connect with Zambia's landscapes and biodiversity.

Over the years, that passion for making a difference gradually drew her towards education more broadly, and she eventually took the leap to train formally as a teacher. It felt like a natural next step for someone who has always believed in the power of learning to change lives.

When she's not in the classroom, you'll likely find Francesca exploring Zambia's wild places, experimenting with cooking new dishes, or taking on different outdoor challenges. She is so excited to be joining the school and can't wait to meet students, families, and other members of staff.

Meet Edwin Mayoyo - Mathematics Teacher, August 2026

I am from Kenya and have been teaching for the past 18 years. My teaching career began in Kenya, where I worked for seven years before embarking on an international journey that has taken me to three different countries: Bahrain, Ethiopia, and, most recently, Russia. In these roles, I have taught mathematics at various levels in middle and high school, and also served as a head of department.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education (Mathematics) and a Bachelor of Philosophy in International Teacher Education. I am currently in my final year of pursuing a Master’s degree in Education. I chose this profession because every day becomes a learning day, rich with new experiences. It has also enabled me to travel and interact with people from different cultures across the world, making me a global citizen.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy playing volleyball and table tennis, as well as watching basketball and football. I also enjoy taking long drives in nature, riding motorbikes, and camping. I am excited about joining the Mathematics Department in the ISL community.

Meet David Kuloba - Chemistry Teacher, August 2026

My name is David Kuloba, and I was born and raised in Kenya on the beautiful slopes of Mount Elgon. Growing up in a strong Christian family shaped my values of respect, community, and lifelong learning. I later pursued my university education at the prestigious Egerton University, where I earned a Bachelor of Education Science, specialising in Biology and Chemistry.

My teaching journey has been both exciting and rewarding, taking me across Kenya, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Germany. Each country and school community has provided unforgettable experiences, broadened my perspective, and strengthened my belief in the power of education to connect people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Throughout these experiences, one thing has remained constant: the importance of learning how to live, work, and grow together as a global community.

I am truly excited about the opportunity to join the International School of Lusaka (ISL). I look forward to sharing my experiences, learning from others, and growing alongside this vibrant and welcoming community.

Beyond the classroom, I have a deep appreciation for nature, enjoy football and running, and value a good sense of humour as an important part of human connection and personal development. I am enthusiastic about contributing both academically and socially to life at ISL as a Chemistry teacher.

Meet Andrea Ohlms - Drama Teacher, August 2026

My name is Andrea Ohlms, and I’m a South African theatre teacher. I have been teaching theatre in Myanmar for the past three years, and bring with me over a decade of experience in theatre as a performer and creative practitioner, with a lifelong love for performance that started when I was very young.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Drama and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. My experience includes acting, as well as directing, writing, arts management and filmmaking. 

I’m particularly interested in helping students use theatre to express themselves, build confidence, and explore ideas about the world around them. I believe theatre is a powerful space for creativity, self-discovery, and connection.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time in nature—especially hiking and camping—as well as attending arts showcases. I also enjoy exploring different cultures, which continues to inspire both my teaching and creative work.

I’m really looking forward to becoming a part of the ISL community.

Meet Oliver Sakanyi - Music & Art Teacher, August 2026

My name is Oliver Sakanyi, and I am delighted to be joining the ISL teaching team. I began my teaching career at Munali Boys High School in Lusaka and have since gained valuable experience teaching in Botswana as well as in some international schools across Zambia. Most recently, I have been based in Monterrey, Mexico, where I have been teaching Art and Music, an experience that has greatly enriched my professional practice and cultural experience.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy visiting museums and learning about different cultures, both past and present. I also have a love for gardening and take great pleasure in planting and nurturing things as I watch them grow. I believe these interests complement my teaching by encouraging curiosity, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

I am very happy to be returning home and becoming part of the ISL community. I look forward to meeting the students and being part of their growth and learning journey.

Meet Marina Case - English Language Teacher, August 2026

My name is Marina Case, and I’m originally from England. I have 19 years of experience teaching English language and literature in both England and Austria, working with students across middle and high school.

I enjoy working with young people from diverse backgrounds, inspiring them to take ownership of their learning while building confidence in their ability to achieve their full potential, both academically and socially. I am especially passionate about reading and encouraging students to explore ideas, question what they read, and develop their own expressive voice.

Outside of school, I enjoy travelling, experiencing new cultures, learning new skills, and meeting new people along the way.

I am very excited to be joining the international school community as a Secondary English teacher and look forward to getting to know the students, families, and staff.