From Nigeria to China: Educator Eniade Ajayi’s Inspiring Journey

Eniade Ajayi’s journey as an international educator is one of gratitude, perseverance, and purpose. Reflecting on her path, she shares, “I am, first of all, grateful to God” for the opportunities she has embraced along the way. Her personal motto, “Change lives and make an impact,” was inspired by her elementary geography teacher, who left a lasting impression on her.

Growing up in Nigeria, Eniade’s story is a testament to resilience. She considers herself “privileged to know what it’s like not to have and to have in abundance,” recalling times when her parents couldn’t afford to send her to school. Today, Eniade is transforming lives as an international educator in China, a role that allows her to give back and inspire others.

As a young woman, Eniade earned her first degree in philosophy and a second in education. She also holds teaching licenses from both Nigeria and the United States. When she was already on site as Gymnastics Coach, the American International School of Lagos offered Eniade her first teaching position, where she stayed for five years. The genuine joy she sees on students’ faces when they learn a new skill fuels her dedication and her happiness. These days, she is finishing up her Master of Physical Education from Northwest Missouri State University.

With guidance from spiritual leaders, career mentors, and friends worldwide, Eniade set her sights on becoming an international educator in China. She envisioned the rewarding experience of teaching in that dynamic environment, and at the suggestion of several colleagues, she explored Search Associates (SEARCH) as a valuable resource for finding overseas teaching opportunities. Registering with SEARCH has been well worth it:

My Associate Gary MacPhie was really helpful. He gave me some tips on how to best rephrase my CV, and he was always prompt with his emails, though I know he is a very busy man. In a word, he was supportive…And I honestly loved every bit of the website because it is well detailed and easy to navigate.

After about four months of applying to schools in different countries, with her hopes set on China, Eniade was contacted by Shanghai American School (SAS), Puxi Campus. Though very eager to take the leap, she first researched the school thoroughly and asked colleagues and friends many questions. She shares an interesting fact about China that her research revealed: “This is one of the few countries where you almost do not see cash because they pay for almost everything digitally.”

Eniade endured two weeks of communication and intensive interviews before SAS offered her the position of Middle School Physical Education Teacher. She is smiling now! And any doubts she might have had evaporated:

I knew it was the right school when I started having a chain of friends working in China, but I didn’t realize I would eventually call China my ‘home away from home.’ It’s been an amazing experience, and I love every bit of it.

Eniade loves learning about and understanding new cultures and meeting people across the globe with like minds. Just as her Associate Gary offered her words of encouragement, she has her own to offer prospective international teachers:

One ‘yes’ makes you forget all the rejections you received during the recruitment process. You’re good at what you do, so don’t give up on applying to all the schools that align with your personal and professional goals.

Eniade’s story reminds us of the profound impact educators can have and the power of resilience and gratitude to shape a brighter future. Search Associates is honored to have been part of her journey, supporting her as she pursues her mission to make a difference in the world.