Empowering Young Minds: Marisa Peer Launches Transformative ‘I Can’t To I Can’ Program Across The UAE

World-renowned therapist and best-selling author Marisa Peer is set to revolutionize student well-being in the UAE after launching her groundbreaking “I Can’t to I Can” program in Dubai schools.

The innovative initiative aims to tackle the alarming global rise in young people struggling with anxiety by equipping children aged 6 – 12 with the tools to build confidence, resilience, and self-esteem.

Following the program’s success in the UK and the US, Marisa, who relocated to Dubai last year, is now aiming to roll out the life-changing program to further schools across the region.

In February and March 2024, students aged 9 (Grade 4) at GEMS World Academy and Al Salam Private School and Nursery in Dubai participated in a week-long series of dynamic and engaging sessions.

Activities included affirmation and compliment circles, where children shared positive statements about themselves and others in their group, helping them recognize how their words affect their feelings and actions.

They were also challenged to design characters to represent their inner cheerleader – a positive inner voice that empowers children to overcome challenges and find happiness within themselves – which concluded with a class art project to collectively create their very own class inner cheerleader.

The feedback from GEMS World Academy and Al Salam Private School and Nursery has been overwhelmingly positive. Teachers have observed significant improvements in students’ self-esteem, emotional resilience, and classroom engagement.

The program has also enhanced peer relationships and boosted participation in class activities.

David Ince, Primary Assistant Principal, Culture and Wellbeing at GEMS World Academy, commented,  “Participating in the 5 Day ‘I Can’t to I Can’ Challenge has had a big impact on our students at GWA. It has been incredible to witness their growth in confidence, resilience, and self-belief.

“This challenge has not only empowered our students to overcome obstacles but has also fostered a positive, supportive, and caring school community, which is something we pride ourselves on.”

The successful launch at GEMS World Academy marks the beginning of a broader rollout of the program across the UAE, targeting schools and educational institutions that want to focus more on student well-being as part of the curriculum.

Wendy Banks, Primary Principal of Al Salam Private School and Nursery added, “We’ve had a fantastic week with Marisa Peer’s five-day challenge.

“Private schools in Dubai have a heavy focus on wellbeing. As an outside observer, I saw that my students have been taken to the next level. Through this program with these handpicked students, we’ve been able to see what they’re truly capable of.

“As mini-adults, they’ve become self-aware of their potential, how to handle difficult situations, and how to be their own cheerleader. Something that many of us adults still need to master. Once upon a time, children were told, you’re just not confident, or you need to try harder. Now, these students understand the challenges that they face, and they have a toolkit to overcome those challenges.”

Marisa Peer, the visionary behind RTT and creator of the 5-Day Challenge, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “Our goal with ‘I Can’t to I Can’ is to lovingly equip children with the tools they need to navigate their emotions and nurture a strong, positive inner voice.

“We are absolutely delighted to bring this program to Dubai and are excited to witness the wonderful impact it will have on these young minds.

“I have always had a passion for working with children and my dream is to leave a lasting legacy, empowering children across the UAE and beyond to unlock their full potential and live confident, joyful, fulfilling lives.

“By instilling these principles early on and making these teachings part of the school curriculum, we can nurture a generation of resilient, self-assured individuals with the bounce-back factor – who are able to face life’s challenges with positivity and have the mindset they need to reach their full potential.”

Beyond the classroom, workshops are also being developed for parents, educators, and those involved in after-school activities to ensure a supportive environment for students outside of school and at home.

Watch the video HERE for a firsthand look at the program’s impact.

Educators interested in implementing this transformative program can find more information and register their interest by completing the form at https://go.applyrtt.com/school-challenge