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| 4 Feb 2026 | |
| United Arab Emirates | |
| Global Teacher Prize |
The Varkey Foundation is delighted to announce that Global Teacher Prize Ambassador Débora Garofalo, from Brazil, has been named the first-ever Global Teacher Influencer of the Year.
Launched by the Varkey Foundation, this new award recognises an exceptional teacher who is using social media to extend learning beyond the classroom and inspire positive change at scale.
A public school teacher in São Paulo, Débora received the award from Jay Varkey, Trustee of the Varkey Foundation and Deputy CEO of GEMS Education, at a gala dinner held at Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai, celebrating outstanding teachers from around the world.
Through her innovative ‘junk robotics’ programme, Débora transforms discarded materials into powerful learning experiences, empowering students, engaging communities, and inspiring educators across Brazil and beyond.
Jay Varkey, Trustee of the Varkey Foundation and Deputy CEO of GEMS Education said:
“Congratulations, Débora, on being named the Varkey Foundation’s first-ever Global Teacher Influencer of the Year. In the digital age, attention is currency – and you have used that attention to advance learning and inspire others. Through your ‘junk robotics’ programme, which turns discarded materials into education and opportunity, and your uplifting presence online, you are helping students reimagine what is possible, and encouraging educators everywhere to do the same.”
Congratulations, Débora!
Learn more about Global Teacher Prize Ambassador Débora Garofalo
