‘Teachers need inspiration and perspectives that help learners build a better world’

This spring, Tatiana Popa took part in the Nobel Prize Teacher Summit and extended programme in Stockholm as a Swedish Institute scholar – an opportunity offered through the Sweden Alumni Academy. Based in Moldova, she is deputy academic director and Global Perspectives teacher at Heritage International School, where she also leads staff development, coordinates student councils, and serves as a national teacher trainer and eTwinning* ambassador. We caught up with her in Stockholm for a few reflections on the experience – and what’s next.
Woman with long hair wearing a scarf
Tatiana Popa from Moldova attending the Nobel Prize Teacher Summit 2025 in Stockholm. Photo: Magnus Liam Karlsson

What moment from the summit stands out most to you?

‘The summit was a fascinating event overall, with many moments worth mentioning. Nevertheless, I was totally impressed by the Nobel Peace Prize laureates Maria Ressa and Leymah Gbowee and their stories of survival and victory for democracy. They are real examples of strong women making a change in the world!’

Has the programme shaped your views on education and democracy?

‘It has strengthened my belief in the power of sharing – especially in education. I was reminded once again that what I do is the right path: empowering my students to believe in fairness, and to fight for freedom and democracy. This matters even more in tumultuous times, when we are not really sure who we are or what we stand for. In such moments, sticking together to protect and support each other – and sharing best practices that truly work – is vital. I had some rich days of learning, absorbing what is best in education!’

You’ll soon be organising a local hub at your school – what do you hope it will offer fellow teachers in Moldova?

‘I am very much looking forward to creating the Nobel Prize hub at my school, with the support of the Swedish Embassy in Chisinau. We have organised many events for school teachers at Heritage International School before, and this hub will be really welcome to strengthen the national educator community. School teachers need inspiration and different perspectives on teaching in the classroom, on global issues, on topics that inspire our learners to take action and build a better world together.’

Can you tell us about future collaboration with the Swedish Embassy?

‘Heritage school has collaborated with the Swedish Embassy in Moldova before, when we invited Ambassador Katarina Fried to speak to our students in the library, but also to students across Moldova, connected remotely to that inspirational session. That was a Founders’ Lecture, aiming to guide learners in choosing their careers and seeing how one can put effort into their learning to get studies and eventually become a diplomat, too. Knowing the excellent work and dedication of the Swedish Embassy, I am confident we will have a great collaboration to launch the Nobel Prize hub of learning at my school as well.’

*eTwinning is a community for schools, an online space for teachers and school staff to collaborate and develop national and international projects.

Nobel Prize Teacher Summit Hub

After the summit, participants are encouraged to organise a local hub for teachers in their home countries. By inviting local educators to take part in a shared viewing of the seminar, the organisers help bring the voices of Nobel Prize laureates and other prominent speakers to a wider audience. This is a way to share knowledge and inspire continued conversations in a local context.

Do you want to know more about the scholarship to attend the Nobel Prize Teacher Summit, or other opportunities offered by Sweden Alumni Academy?

Read more about Sweden Alumni Academy

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