S04E01 - Transforming Educational Support for Dyslexic Learners - Rehab

In this episode, Ali Khawaja hosts Rehab Shahbal, founder and CEO of DYStinct Learners, an online center that provides support for children with dyslexia and other learning challenges. Rehab shares her journey from a high-ranking corporate role to establishing a center dedicated to personalized learning support after her son was diagnosed with dyslexia. She discusses the emotional impact of navigating stigma and advocating for her child’s needs, underscoring the importance of parental involvement and research-backed educational methods.

Rehab explains the services offered by DYStinct Learners, including tailored assessments, remediation, and diagnostic evaluations. She highlights the challenges parents face in securing effective educational support, the need for community awareness, and the evolving inclusion policies in the UAE. The conversation also addresses financial and institutional obstacles, encouraging a community approach for collective progress. Rehab’s story is a powerful reminder that every child deserves an education suited to their needs and abilities. She emphasizes that it’s never too late to start helping children learn in the way that’s right for them.

#DyslexiaSupport #SpecialEducation #InclusiveEducation #DistinctLearners #LearningDisabilities #ParentalAdvocacy #EducationReform #CommunitySupport

 

Podcasters-

Outline

Introduction and Welcome (00:06 - 01:10)
Ali Khawaja introduces the episode's focus on family and children’s education.
Briefly introduces guest Rehab, founder of Distinct Learners, setting the context for the conversation.

Rehab's Background and Journey to Founding Distinct Learners (01:11 - 02:10)
Rehab introduces herself and provides her professional background.
Shares her transition from corporate banking to founding an educational support center for dyslexic children.

Personal Story and Motivation Behind Distinct Learners (02:10 - 04:18)
Rehab's personal experience as a mother to a dyslexic child.
The discovery process, initial struggles, and the journey that led her to establish her organization.

Navigating Stigma and Emotional Impact (04:19 - 09:05)
Rehab discusses the emotional journey as a mother of a dyslexic child.
Conversations on stigma, societal perceptions, and the challenges of acceptance within the family and community.

Advocacy and Importance of Parental Involvement (09:05 - 11:06)
Rehab emphasizes the need for parents to advocate for their children’s learning needs in schools.
Shares her own experiences of working with schools and encouraging parental involvement.

Distinct Learners’ Model and Services (11:35 - 14:21)
Overview of Distinct Learners’ services, focusing on online assessments, personalized support, and diagnostic evaluations.
Details the importance of individualized education plans (IEPs) and ongoing assessments.

Challenges and Key Milestones in Establishing Distinct Learners (14:41 - 18:29)
Rehab recounts the early challenges and significant milestones of establishing her center.
Emphasis on building a global team and expanding to Arabic language support.

Raising Awareness and Building a Supportive Community (18:30 - 24:39)
Rehab and Ali discuss the need for community awareness and support networks for families with dyslexic children.
Highlights the UAE government’s efforts in inclusion and education policy for children with learning challenges.

Importance of Research-Driven and Evidence-Based Approaches (24:39 - 27:55)
Explanation of why research-based methodologies are essential for educational interventions.
The value of measurable progress and long-term impact on children’s learning abilities.

Addressing Financial and Structural Challenges in Educational Support (28:25 - 32:25)
Discussion on financial and institutional challenges faced by parents seeking special education resources.
Potential solutions, including government and community support for affordable services.

Community Building and Future Goals for Distinct Learners (32:39 - 36:29)
Rehab’s vision for fostering a supportive community and the long-term goal of transforming education in the UAE and the Middle East.

Final Thoughts and Encouragement (36:29 - 39:11)
Rehab encourages parents to seek help early and focus on their children’s unique learning needs.
Closing remarks on overcoming stigma, building a supportive community, and taking proactive steps in children’s educational journeys.