What if school wasn’t just about grades—but about raising future-ready humans?

When I sat down with Deepika Sodhi, principal of GIIS East Coast, I saw why this school isn’t your typical academic grind. With its 9 GEMS framework, GIIS blends academics, creativity, sports, values—and even ethical AI use—into everyday learning. Deepika shares how the school creates confident, well-rounded students while making life easier for parents (no more running to 5 after-school classes!). It’s education, reimagined!

IN THIS EPISODE

(00:00) What if academic scores weren’t the key to a child’s future success?

(03:30) Can one framework really prepare kids for 2050

(05:30) The surprising places GIIS students end up—and how they get there

(07:30) Why GIIS parents start thinking about college when their kids are 13

(09:15) Zoom classrooms, facial recognition, and a school built for the future

(11:30) What happens when teachers, students—and parents—truly align?

(13:45) Are we overdoing it with kids’ extracurriculars? One principal weighs in

(16:15) The system that lets kids thrive… even if they’re not great at everything (yet)

(18:30) From fear to friendship: how teacher-student relationships are evolving

(20:45) AI is like oxygen—but can schools teach kids to use it ethically?

(23:15) Why AI won't replace teachers (and what makes human learning irreplaceable)

(25:30) “Push. Passion. Persistence. Perseverance.” A success formula worth remembering

(28:15) How failing to become a doctor led her to top the university in… physics

(31:30) The real gold medals aren’t on a shelf—they’re walking into global universities

Deepika Sodhi

Deepika Sodhi is a visionary education leader with over 26 years of experience in academic excellence, curriculum innovation, and digital transformation. As Principal at Global Indian International School, she’s led award-winning initiatives that blend Cambridge and IB pedagogy with holistic development. A certified Apple Teacher and ISO auditor, she’s a passionate advocate for inclusive, future-ready education. Known as a strategic thinker and inspirational mentor, Deepika empowers students and educators alike to thrive in an evolving world.

Connect with her at https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepika-sodhi-696939134/

Shalima Motial

Founder & CEO of Dream Catchers (Host)

With over 20 years of work experience, I am a passionate and creative entrepreneur who specialises in online talent showcase and marketing. I have a master's degree in English literature, which gives me a strong foundation in communication, storytelling, and content creation. I founded Dream Catchers Vision in 2011, a Singapore-based online platform that discovers and promotes performing artists from around the world.

Connect with Shalima at https://www.linkedin.com/in/shalima-motial-44aab331/    

Dream Catchers

Dream Catchers: Empowering Dreams in Singapore

Dream Catchers is a pioneering Events, Theatre & Film Production company based in Singapore, dedicated to nurturing the aspirations of performing artists, entrepreneurs, and promoting women’s empowerment. Established over 14 years ago, the company has successfully organized numerous online and offline events, serving as a vital platform for emerging talent. Notably, Dream Catchers has been a nationwide talent partner for major Bollywood concerts in Singapore, providing invaluable opportunities for artists to shine. Through its diverse initiatives, Dream Catchers continues to inspire and empower individuals across the region.

Watch the feature film – DOMINOES | Full Length Feature Film UHD 4K (Watermarked)

Connect with Dream Catchers at http://www.dreamcatchersvision.com/home  

https://www.facebook.com/dreamcatchersvision/