Teaching art for Lemishka Govinder is about far more than creativity on a canvas.
To her it is about helping young people see the world, and themselves, differently. As a visual arts teacher at De La Salle Holy Cross College, Govinder believes education is a journey of constant growth, not perfection. “Teaching is not something you ever fully arrive at. It is a continuous process of learning, adapting, and reflecting.”

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That mindset has helped shape her approach in the classroom, where compassion and understanding sit at the heart of her teaching philosophy. Through years of working with learners from different backgrounds – including those who have experienced personal trauma – Govinder says she has learnt the importance of looking beyond behaviour and understanding the deeper reasons behind it. “Sometimes what we interpret as disengagement or defiance is actually a response to deeper challenges.”

Rather than focusing solely on academic performance, Govinder aims to create a safe and supportive environment, where learners feel seen, heard, and encouraged to think independently. “I hope my students learn to be objective – to question what they see and form their own informed opinions.”

She admits that teaching often comes with moments of self-doubt, but perseverance and perspective keep her motivated. “Not getting it perfect immediately does not mean failure. It means I am still learning.”

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For Govinder, some of the most meaningful moments come from watching learners gradually grow in confidence, skill, and self-belief. “I hope they remember me as someone who supported them, even in the smallest ways.”

Outside the classroom, it is the learners themselves who continue to inspire her. Their resilience, honesty, and creativity remind her daily why teaching matters, and, through art, empathy, and encouragement, Govinder is helping shape far more than young artists – she is helping shape thoughtful, confident individuals.

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