The Turning Point: A Tragic Disappearance
At just 21 years old, Dr. Jana Bou Reslan found herself at the center of an emotional storm when one of her students disappeared in the woods. Grappling with the emotional aftermath, Dr.Jana organized a mental health awareness campaign to support her students during this difficult time.
The campaign’s success ignited a lifelong passion for educational psychology and mental health advocacy. Reflecting on that pivotal moment, Dr. Jana says, “It planted the seed for my career and showed me the profound impact of combining education with mental health.”
Dr. Jana Bou Reslan: From Schoolteacher to Changemaker
Dr. Jana began her career as a schoolteacher, juggling the diverse needs of her students. It was challenging but rewarding, shaping her resilience and adaptability. Eager to grow, she pursued an MBA and transitioned to university teaching, where she faced new pressures to prove herself in a more demanding academic environment.
Her perseverance paid off, and she soon gained recognition for her dedication to education and mental health advocacy. Today, she is not only a teacher but also a voice for change in the region.
Representing the UAE as a TikTok Changemaker
Dr. Jana’s journey took an exciting turn when she was selected for the TikTok Changemakers program, representing the UAE. While she celebrates this monumental achievement, she emphasizes that true success lies in overcoming personal challenges.
“The biggest achievements,” Dr. Jana shares, “are the internal battles we face—our fears, insecurities, and doubts. Winning these battles is where real strength lies.”
Masterclasses That Inspire Change
Combining her passions for education and advocacy, Dr. Jana has launched innovative masterclasses aimed at empowering Arab communities. Her first Parenting Masterclass for Arab parents has already gained widespread attention.
Additionally, Dr. Jana is preparing to launch a masterclass on Arabic for non-native speakers. This initiative aligns with her vision of making knowledge accessible while celebrating cultural identity. “Education is the foundation for change, and mental health is the key to growth,” she explains.
Lessons from Her Father
Dr. Jana credits much of her inspiration to her father, whose love for poetry and teaching shaped her values. “He taught me that storytelling is a powerful tool to educate and connect,” she says. This lesson fuels her mission to use storytelling to spark meaningful conversations and foster understanding.
The Challenges Behind the Camera
Despite her accomplishments, Dr. Jana is transparent about her struggles, particularly during the early days of her content creation journey. “I was overly reserved and critical of my work,” she admits. “It taught me to lead with self-compassion and focus on creating value instead of comparing myself to others.”
Her guiding principle is authenticity. “Whether teaching in a classroom or creating content, people connect when you’re genuine,” she says.
Redefining Success
Dr. Jana’s definition of success has evolved over time. Initially, it was about recognition and validation. Today, it’s about impact—helping others learn, grow, and embrace mental health as a vital part of their journey.
“Success is about empowering people and making education and mental health accessible to everyone,” she explains.
Words of Wisdom
For those aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Dr. Jana shares this advice: “Stay curious, but also stay kind—to yourself and others. Your imperfections are part of your journey, and every setback is an opportunity to grow.”
Leaving a Legacy
Looking to the future, Dr. Jana envisions a world where mental health is destigmatized and education is a powerful tool for change. “I want to be remembered as someone who broke barriers, combined education and advocacy, and inspired people to embrace their authentic selves,” she says.
Her ultimate hope? “To leave the world a bit more compassionate and curious.”
The Journey Continues
Dr. Jana Bou Reslan’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-compassion, and authenticity. From her early days as a teacher to becoming a changemaker, her journey inspires others to learn, grow, and create meaningful change in their communities.
Dr. Jana’s commitment to education and mental health advocacy ensures that her legacy will continue to impact lives for generations to come. Do follow her on Instagram.
