From 60 Students to 5 Continents: Taking Educational Innovation Global 3 years ago, I never thought I would start my own business.

As an educator passionate about innovation and building connections, I thrived as a team leader at Agora School. Starting with just five colleagues and 60 students, we grew into a thriving community of 300 students in a region facing declining enrollment.

Our innovative approach drew global attention — we were featured on Dutch national television, in Rutger Bregman's bestselling book: Humankind (a must-read!), and even in a Japanese newspaper. 

It was clear that reimagining education could create ripples far beyond our borders.

But over time, I felt my role shifting. 

Operational tasks began to dominate, leaving less space for the creativity and innovation I loved. Then, during a conversation, the board chairman offered unexpected advice:

,“Rob, start your own company. We’ll hire you — we simply can’t do without your knowledge of Agora.” 

It was a daunting idea. I didn’t see myself as an entrepreneur. 

But through the encouragement from colleagues, friends and family and a period of deep reflection, I reflected deeply. Starting my own company would allow me to focus fully on educational innovation, free from the distractions of daily operations.

I could help even more people.

So, I took the leap. Within two months of launching, my schedule was fully booked for six months — all without active outreach. The next six months followed the same pattern. 

People just found me.

Now, 2.5 years later, I’m running a business that I’m incredibly proud of.Here are some highlights:

• Global Clientele: I travel to clients across Europe, Central America, the Middle East, South Africa, and even North Korea to support and share our educational innovation.
• Meaningful Connections: My work remains grounded in real impact, engaging directly with students, parents, staff, and management.
• International Collaboration: I’ve welcomed schools from all over the world to The Netherlands, including visits from the Hong Kong, Australia, and Russia.
• International Recognition for our Work: Our Building Blocks were reviewed by colleagues at Harvard Project Zero, who allowed us to use their research to refine them. We’ve also been welcomed into the Edge Foundation’s Deeper Learning UK International Network.
• Strong Bookings: My 2025 calendar is almost fully booked, providing stability and confidence in our continued growth.🎉
• Dedicated Team: I work with two fantastic part-time c-workers Bryan & Rob who share my dedication to innovation.
• Autonomy: I have the freedom to align my work with my vision, turning down projects that don’t resonate.

For anyone considering following a passion, here’s my advice:

Go for it. Try it. 

Reflection comes most vividly to life through experience, not endless contemplation.

Don’t you agree?