Local Business Shoutout: Assessment Book Author

I was calculating how long I have known Gayarttri and I couldn't help but laugh. 24 years! More than half of my life on this earth. We been through so much together and at this point, I don't only consider her as my close friend, she is my family.

It is not everyday that you know someone who wrote an assessment book. So this month, I am featuring Gayarttri, author of PSLE Science 1000 Challenging MCQs.

Gayarttri, author of PSLE Science 1000 Challenging MCQs.

Photo Credit: Gayarttri

Hi Gayarttri, share a little about yourself and your assessment book.

I am Gaya and I am passionate about creating happiness and boosting the self-confidence of children and women. The weapon of my choice was education. My journey in the education sector began more than 2 decades ago. In this journey, I have taught in a primary school, been a pre-school principal, conduct professional development for educators, be a tertiary level lecturer and even written a PSLE Science book among many other things. I love connecting with my children, educators and families. For me education isn't about content delivery. It's so much more. It's connecting with the child and encouraging them to be the best version of themselves. It's about letting a single parent know that you can rest as I have your back in ensuring your child is coping well. Its about educating families that life is beyond grades.

Wanting to write an assessment book was a desire I had when I first started my journey in the education field years ago. At that time, it seemed like an impossible dream. But eventually I was able to do so. I wanted to create something that was meaningful, easy to digest for both students and parents and that would make a difference. The biggest push to get this done was when I ran my own Centre, Crayons N Neurons. I realized that the additional aid, especially in science, available for students was lacking. I wanted to be more proactive in solving this issue.

Can you describe the moment that you decided to become an educator, freelancer and create your own business?

I think I always knew I was going to be an educator. I was always good at content delivery but more importantly, I was genuine in wanting to connect with my students and families to help them. With many 'words of mouth' recommendation, eventually I was successful enough to start my own Learning Centre. What was interesting is that 90% of my students in the centre were students who had been rejected by other well-known and established learning centres as they were not 'smart' enough or had special or learning needs. This broke my heart as many kids and parents were willing to get help, but nobody extended a hand out. Education was and is still seen by many as a money spinner. To me education is a lifeline.

What do you tell yourself to stay motivated in what you do?

I tell myself that what I do is a purpose and not a job. Being a changemaker is an intentional decision.

What is the routine you set for yourself?

I wouldn't say I follow a routine but I am intentional about what I need to do for the day. Whether it's volunteering at my son's school, lecturing or simply pausing just to take a breather. My target for each day is to accomplish any 3 tasks.

What are some of the obstacles you faced?

Sometimes it's hard to stay self-motivated. And when things are not going according to plan or I struggle to get things done, self-doubt would set in as well. There were times I have wondered if I was doing the right thing, especially when things felt very overwhelming. Another challenge was juggling between all my various roles. Time management is a real challenge for me. As a mother, I would also feel guilty that I had not spent enough time with my son due to work commitments.

What are the most rewarding aspects of doing what you do?

Honestly, it's when I see my students get confidence and are genuinely happy. Same for the families I work with.

Who are your role models?

I don't have a fixed role model. But I am inspired by the people I meet daily.

What tools, systems, books or resources would you recommend to all business owners?

I think more than tools or systems, it's important to have a good support system as this role can be overwhelming at times. For me, mindset is also important.

How do find inspiration and creativity?

There isn't a fixed answer to this as anything can spark of inspiration and creativity. An image I see on social media, an old memory, a problem that crops up, etc. There are times when I feel stagnant, and I would talk to friends or like-minded individuals. Many a times, these conversations do trigger inspiration, creativity and clarity.

What advice will you give to business owners/freelancers?

Know your purpose. Be intentional. Be resourceful. Ask for help when needed.

What is the future going to be like for you?

Well, the benefit of having flexi-time is the ability to spend more time with my family. That is something I look forward to more as my kid is growing up. I hope to continue helping more students and families. I will also be writing more books that will be in the market in 2026. The future will no doubt hold more challenges, but I believe that I will be able to handle it with grace.

We wish you all the best and hope to see more of your books in the future. To purchase the assessment book, click here.