Meet the D.R.E.A.M. Team

Dr. Barbara Za Franks

President/CEO

Dr. Barbara Zá Franks is an accomplished international educator, school leader, and founder of D.R.E.A.M. Education Solutions. With over 17 years of experience in international education, she has led impactful initiatives across the Caribbean, China, Africa, and the United States. Originally from The Bahamas, she began her career as a music teacher and later launched an innovative after-school performing arts academy, advancing arts education and youth development.

Dr. Franks spent 11 years in China as a teacher, school, and district administrator, including roles such as Academic Dean, Dean of Faculty, Regional Dean, and Chief Academic Officer. During this time, she also founded Shanghai D.R.E.A.M., a consultancy supporting academic innovation and institutional growth through curriculum development, teacher training, and school improvement initiatives in bilingual and international schools.

She currently serves as Chief Academic Officer of Global Harmony Academy and leads D.R.E.A.M. Education Solutions, which empowers international students, particularly in Africa and the Caribbean, to earn an American high school diploma and pursue American university pathways.

Dr. Franks holds a B.A. in International Relations, an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, and an Ed.D. in Leadership, with research focused on leadership behaviors and teacher retention. Passionate about educational equity and global opportunity, she is committed to creating transformative learning experiences for students and institutions worldwide.

Philippa Anne Franks

Director of Admissions/Registrar

Philippa is a seasoned educational leader with over a decade of experience in fostering academic and social development among students. Currently serving as the Director of Admissions and Registrar, Philippa excels in streamlining admissions processes, managing student records, and ensuring compliance with academic policies. Her background in curriculum development, classroom management, and educational leadership equips her with a unique perspective on student needs and institutional requirements. Philippa is dedicated to promoting inclusive education and enhancing the overall student experience through meticulous attention to detail and a passion for educational excellence.

Professor Daniel Adu

Director of Academic Partnerships

Prof. Adu is an accomplished Associate Professor at Jiangsu University and Adjunct Professor at the University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani. With over 18 years in academia and research, he holds a Master’s in Environmental Science and dual Ph.Ds in Power Engineering/ Thermophysics and Theology (Leadership and Administration). Prof. Adu has held numerous leadership roles including Coordinating Director of the Belt & Road African Sector at Jiangsu University and Secretary of International Affairs at the National Research Centre of Pumps, China. His research focuses on renewable energy, CO2 emissions, environmental and energy management, among others, contributing prolifically to academic journals and authored book chapters. He serves as a reviewer and editorial board member for prestigious journals, and is recognized as a distinguished conference and motivational speaker. Prof. Adu is dedicated to advancing education and sustainability, notably through innovative models aimed at enhancing skills in engineering, technology, and medicine, particularly in developing countries like those in Africa.

Kasiva Muthama

Director of Sales & Marketing (East Africa)

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