Long-term resident and educator Molly Mammen is set to return home after a ‘fulfilling journey’ in Bahrain spanning 35 years.
The Indian expatriate from Umm Al Hassam will be flying back to Mumbai where she will join her daughter Olga Mammen, who grew up in the kingdom.
“Bahrain has always felt like home to me, largely because of its people,” the Asian School principal told the GDN. “Over the years, I have built strong friendships here and the warmth shared makes it easy to connect and belong,” she added.
Ms Mammen arrived in the kingdom in 1991 and quickly fell in love with its charm. She had brief stints at the New Indian School, where she worked for about a month before receiving an opportunity to teach at the Indian School, at the secondary level, both of which are located in Isa Town. A few months later, she was invited to interview at the Asian School, now located in Tubli, where she was selected as an academic supervisor.
“That marked the beginning of a truly fulfilling journey. From the moment I joined, I felt a deep sense of belonging and never wished to leave. In 1994, I was promoted to head teacher, followed by vice principal in 2000 and eventually took on the role of principal in 2012. The school, in many ways, became my extended family. I share a very close bond with the management and staff. Beyond this, my association with the Sacred Heart Church has also been a significant and enriching part of my life here.”
Throughout her career, the academician has won many awards and recognitions. However, she highlighted that nothing has been as fulfilling as witnessing the growth and success of her students and experiencing their genuine love and affection – the ‘greatest reward of all’.
“My journey as an educator began nearly 50 years ago. I always felt that teaching was my true calling. While still in college, I applied to a school close to my home in Mumbai and was fortunate to be selected – an experience that reinforced my passion for education. Two years later, I completed my BEd and continued teaching with even greater commitment. I went on to work across three schools in Mumbai for 15 years, building a strong foundation in the profession, before moving to Bahrain,” she recounted.
Ms Mammen laid the foundation of her illustrious career in Mumbai where both her children were born and spent their early years. When they were in middle school, they moved to the kingdom where they continued their education; Olga studied at the Indian School, while Basil attended the Asian School.
“Bahrain provided them with a safe, nurturing environment and access to quality education, which helped shape their values, independence and outlook on life. Olga, now 46, went on to pursue and complete her studies in physiotherapy and currently works as a freelance physiotherapist in Mumbai. Basil was working in Bahrain when he sadly passed away in 2007 at the age of 27. His memory continues to remain a source of strength and inspiration for us,” Ms Mammen revealed.
It was a difficult period, which the mother-of-two navigated with the support of family and friends.
“It was an immensely difficult time and one that tested me deeply. However, I found strength in my faith, the support of my family and friends and the purpose I drew from my work. Basil was a bright and kind soul and his memory continues to inspire me every day.
“I also experienced the loss of my husband, another moment of great personal sorrow. Yet, life teaches us resilience… the ability to move forward with courage and hope,” she remarked.
The late Mammen Mathew worked in office administration at AK Almoayyed and died due to kidney failure in India, in 2018.
Despite experiencing deep personal losses, Ms Mammen never lost her spark even as she prepared for retirement.
“I look forward to returning to Mumbai to spend meaningful time with my daughter and granddaughter, who are eagerly awaiting my arrival. My granddaughter is 17 and on the threshold of beginning her own journey as she prepares for college. Before that, I hope to cherish these precious moments with her.
“At the same time, I do not see myself being idle. I firmly believe in staying active and engaged. Education remains my passion and I hope to continue contributing to society through mentoring, consulting or community initiatives, while also enjoying quality time with my family,” she said.
Looking back at her time in Bahrain, Ms Mammen highlighted that it is a country where one can grow, build a family and feel a deep sense of security and belonging.
“Over the years, I have watched Bahrain evolve into a dynamic and modern nation, embracing growth and innovation while remaining deeply connected to its traditions and values. It is this beautiful balance between progress and heritage that makes Bahrain so special.
“My message to children is never lose sight of the values that your parents and your school strive to instil in you. These are the true foundation of your success. And to parents, I would gently remind you to stay closely connected with your children. Talk to them, understand them and be present in their lives. That is the strongest way to guide them on the right path,” she added.
melissa@gdnmedia.bh
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