El-Gouna – Dr. Magdi Yacoub, the world-renowned cardiothoracic surgeon, professor and humanitarian, encouraged students at Manara School to uphold the core values of leadership, self-reflection and ethics as they navigate their journeys in life. The Egyptian icon visited the school for a full-day event, engaging with students and addressing the entire school community, answering questions on topics ranging from values and teamwork to the importance of self-reflection and critical thinking.
“[When it comes to teamwork], we have to be aligned and think in similar ways,” Dr. Yacoub noted. “Having people aligned […] as much as possible, learning [similar] things, using the same methods, and improving together is essential.” He noted that this will help the overall growth and development at every level.
The comments were part of a one-on-one interview with Dr. Yacoub, conducted by Marly Meleka, a Grade 10 student, as they reflected on the school’s Portrait of a Graduate, the guiding framework outlining the key characteristics of a Manara student. He also got to meet individually with students enrolled in the Student Leadership Program, offering the teenagers the rare opportunity to chat with the icon.
One student even got the chance to demonstrate a rapid power-bank he created himself that would allow users to charge their mobiles much faster than the ones currently available commercially. Andy Hakim, a 10th grader, came up with the power bank as he was constantly frustrated by the time needed for his dead mobile to charge. Dr. Yacoub also got to meet with Jina Tamer, another 10th grader, who painted a mural of the doctor to mark the occasion of his visit.
Also during the visit, the school surprised Dr. Yacoub with a display of several paintings by his late aunt Eugenie, who had passed away at a young age due to heart-related complications following childbirth. The doctor had stated previously that it was her death that first inspired him to take the path of cardiothoracic medicine.
During the full student assembly, Dr. Yacoub fielded questions from the students, some of which focused specifically on leadership, being true to one’s values, ethical guidelines in decision making and the importance of finding one’s identity. Dr. Yacoub placed particular importance during his comments on how essential it is for students to remain rooted in their Egyptian identity while adopting a global perspective.
During the discussion, Yacoub emphasized the importance of upholding strong, unshakable values in life. He stated “Unless you have values, you have nothing. Even if you have the world, without values you will lose yourself. You should do what you believe is right, even if it may harm you.”
Dr. Magdi being here is the story of Manara. He is the story of Egypt [and] every Egyptian leader,” stated school founder Naguib Samih Sawiris. “For me, Manara is a personal commitment to Egypt, [which] is filled with exceptional talent, and our responsibility is to cultivate leaders who combine intellectual excellence with character and a strong sense of duty. Sir Magdi Yacoub embodies the standard we aspire to at Manara: excellence grounded in humility, ambition guided by service, and global achievement rooted in Egyptian identity.”
For his part, Todd Cuddington, Head of School, noted that Dr. Yacoub and his discussions with the students throughout the visit, embody the transformative educational experience the school promises to deliver. “Beyond strong academics, Manara provides distinctive leadership and service opportunities that are rare elsewhere in Egypt,” says Cuddington. “The merit of Manara is found in its consistent focus on shaping principled, capable graduates who are prepared not only for university, but for meaningful and impactful lives.”
Students attending Manara School receive an internationally accredited education in a residential setting that enshrines core leadership values including executive skills, critical thinking, personal accountability for decision making, and integrity. Enrollment is open for students from all over the country, grades eight to 12, based on merit, academic performance and commitment to excellence regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion or financial capability. This is rooted in the belief that a level playing field is needed to create a more equitable future for all Egyptians to thrive.