
Master of Education (MEd) – Online Cohort
My name is Lili Zhao, and Bella is my preferred name. I am enrolled in the online M.Ed. program in Early Childhood Education at UBC, starting in 2025. Born in China, I later moved to Vancouver with my family, where I have continued to grow both personally and professionally.
My career began as an Early Childhood Educator and Infant/Toddler teacher, and I have since worked in a variety of childcare settings, including play-based programs, Reggio Emilia-inspired environments, and CEFA schools. I went on to complete AMS Montessori teacher training for ages 3–6 in Canada and ages 6–12 in the U.S. Currently, I work at a Montessori Primary School while also teaching ECEA and ECE courses as a college instructor. My goal is to prepare future educators with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need so they feel both ready and inspired when they begin their work in the field.
In addition to my professional roles, I volunteer with Scouts Canada, where I enjoy providing outdoor education to young children. As a mother of two, I strive to be a role model for my children by showing them the value of lifelong learning and passion for education.
Studying at UBC is a privilege and an exciting new chapter. The program is not only about advancing knowledge but also about connecting with dedicated educators, sharing insights, and engaging with diverse perspectives. I deeply value UBC’s inclusive and collaborative environment and look forward to learning, contributing, and growing alongside this inspiring community.