We are constantly expanding the range of services offered, taking care of children of all ages.

Instagram


Excellence In
Canadian Education

Maple Bear Canadian School Kinshasa is a bilingual early‑childhood and primary education campus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo that follows the Canadian Maple Bear network’s curriculum and pedagogy. It operates in the Gombe area of Kinshasa and currently focuses on preschool and kindergarten (maternelle/jardin d’enfants) in a safe, modern, play‑based environment.

The concept of Maple Bear Canadian schools originated from the efforts of the Canadian Education Centre Network (CECN), a non-profit organization supported by the Government of Canada and the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. Its mission was to promote Canadian education globally and encourage international students to study in Canada.

In 2004, Maple Bear was established after CECN representatives identified a growing demand within local markets for high-quality, bilingual Canadian education. This demand was especially strong among middle-class families, many of whom had international education experience, particularly in Canada.

The first Maple Bear Canadian School opened in 2005 in Indirapuram, New Delhi, India.

By 2007, Maple Bear transitioned into a privately owned organization, starting with a small number of schools in countries such as Korea, Brazil, and India. The network expanded rapidly as parents recognized the benefits of Canadian immersion and bilingual education, particularly in improving students’ language skills, learning outcomes, and overall development.

Today, Maple Bear operates over 500 schools across 40 countries, educating more than 70,000 students worldwide.

We welcome you to become part of the Maple Bear global community.

Maple Bear Kinshasa

Founders

Nilam Khoja

Founder

Abbas Khoja

Co-Founder

A Founder’s vision for Excellence

As a Founder of Maple Bear Canadian School Kinshasa, I join forces with Abbas Khoja, whose distinguished business background complements my 11 years in education. I have worked across various curriculums, supporting students from ages 2 to 16 and gaining deep insights into world-class teaching philosophies and methodologies. Together, we are passionate about giving back to Kinshasa community by bringing the renowned Maple Bear Canadian bilingual education to our community.

Our vision drives this endeavor: to provide the best education that equips every child with essential 21st-century skills, like critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and digital literacy, alongside strong bilingual abilities in English and French language. We believe each student deserves an environment that nurtures their unique potential, opening doors to brighter futures as innovative global leaders.

Maple Bear Canada’s excellence shines through its play-based, inquiry-driven approach, fostering holistic development from early childhood onward. This proven methodology ensures academic success, cultural awareness, and career readiness, preparing students to thrive in a connected world.

We welcome you to Maple Bear Canadian School Kinshasa, Gombe—where tomorrow’s leaders begin.

Nilam Khoja (Founder Of Maple Bear School Kinshasa, Gombe.)

Academic Coordinator

Farah Shah

Our Team

Iman El Sayed

French Teacher
Born in Abidjan and raised in Lebanon, Iman holds a Master’s degree and a background in Human Resources. With over five years of experience in Home schooling students from age 3-13, Iman brings a trilingual, interactive, and fun-filled approach to Maple Bear. Iman is dedicated to creating a warm and encouraging environment where children feel supported as they gain confidence in French.

Gemima

Toddler Homeroom Teacher
Originally from the DRC and raised in South Africa, Gemima holds a background in Business Administration. With four years of experience teaching at Busy Bees Nursery, she brings a nurturing, high-energy, and play-based approach to Maple Bear. Gemima is dedicated to ensuring a safe and joyful environment where toddlers feel confident to explore and grow.

Anamta Rizvi

Nursery Homeroom Teacher
Originally from India, Anamta holds a Master’s in English and a B.Ed. With 9 years of international experience across CBSE and Cambridge curriculum, she brings a highly skilled and academic approach to Maple Bear. Anamta is committed to nurturing children through engaging activities, ensuring a safe and supportive environment that promotes both academic excellence and social development.

Clara Thindwa

Nursery Co-Teacher
Originally from Malawi, Clara brings five years of dedicated experience as an English and religious educator. Currently teaching preschool in the DRC, she brings a passionate, supportive, and communication-focused approach to Maple Bear. Clara is committed to fostering confidence in early learners by creating fun and engaging environments where children feel empowered to connect and grow.

Farah Shah

Academic Coordinator & Junior KG Homeroom Teacher
Originally from Pakistan, Farah holds an M.Phil. in Educational Administration and a B.Sc. (Hons) in Education. With over five years of specialized experience in teacher training and curriculum design, she serves as the Academic Coordinator and Jr. KG Homeroom Teacher at Maple Bear. Farah is dedicated to enhancing education quality through literacy promotion and capacity building, ensuring a structured environment where learning outcomes are consistently strengthened.

Winny Mola

Junior KG Co-Teacher
Originally from Nigeria, Winny brings extensive experience working with toddler and Pre-KG classes from past 5 years to the Maple Bear team. As a Jr. KG Co-Teacher, she provides a passionate and supportive approach focused on fostering creativity and growth. Winny is dedicated to helping young learners explore and play in a vibrant environment where they can build their confidence every day.

Ofomata Nmasinachi Uche

Senior KG Homeroom Teacher
Originally from Nigeria, Ms. Uche brings over 15 years of extensive experience in primary and pre-primary education across various international schools. She combines her deep pedagogical knowledge with a passion for helping students achieve their full potential. Ms. Uche is dedicated to creating an inclusive, student-centered classroom at Maple Bear, where she utilizes her years of expertise to foster critical thinking, academic excellence, and a lifelong love for learning.

Komal Gidhwani

Senior KG Co-Teacher
Originally from Rajasthan, India, Komal holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration. With specialized experience as a phonics teacher for children aged 5 to 15, she brings a strong focus on literacy and language development to Maple Bear. Komal is passionate about engaging young learners and is dedicated to building the foundational reading and communication skills they need to grow with confidence.

Ahlam Azad Lusangi

School Secretary