ImagineNations Network

Anjela Begjanova S

Industry: Business Consulting/Coaching
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Dear Halifa,

Many years ago at age of 24 I start-up my private school, where teenagers could learn on absolutely new subjects for my country? Turkmenistan.  I started with a) developing of a good idea of what I want to be proud with my school; b) looked at many resources on local legislation,  tried to find new curricula and materials to be used; c) creted a group of potential teachers and "moral" supporters; d) then I went to various schools to talk to students (some schools administrators did nto allowed me to enter, but some gave me an opportunity in an interactive method to show some lessons);  and then I began working on business plan and looked through potential financial sources.  It was 1989.  Frist two years were very difficult/ I used money pof my family and friends mostly. But later, the school gained good reputation and I had another problem - to reduce number of students wish to enter me school.  Although I am not a principal of the school now, the school still active under leadership of my previous deputy.    Nowadays, with internet, there are many sites that offer step-by-step advise on how to develop not-for-profit organizations. Here one http://managementhelp.org/strt_org/strt_np/strt_np.htm   Just wanted to add that there is some assistance available through sources you would never think of, such as Sister-cities Committes, some international or EU or USA not-for-profit organizations that promote democratic education.  Sometimes it is better to request a consultant or a volunteer from  these institutions, who would travel to your country (as a part of a grant funding) and help you.  Just do not hesitate writing them.  I wish you good luck!

on 1/6/10