My name is Shaza Jendi and I am an educational researcher and graphic designer. Currently, I am a student at Harvard Graduate School of Education. I earned an MFA in design and visual communications from the University of Florida where I also received training for an Early Childhood Graduate Certificate. I completed my BFA at the American University of Sharjah College of Architecture Art and Design in the United Arab Emirates.
During my undergraduate studies, I worked with multiple NGOs in refugee camps in the Middle East. I was responsible for designing worksheets and workbooks for children. In 2015, I interned as a graphic designer at Iftah Ya Simsim, which is the Arabic version of the American children's educational show "Sesame Street". I was later employed as a full time graphic designer there. My interest for educational design was inspired by my work for the show.
Moving to the United States and being an Arab Immigrant myself, informed my work by highlighting issues faced by Arab immigrants that affect their living experiences. I am motivated to create opportunities for minority groups and marginalized communities to express their needs and concerns.
Currently, I am working on projects that focus on engaging children through creative informal learning settings. During my free time, I like to travel, learn about different cultures, bake, and spend time with my husband and two beautiful boys.