Portia graduated from Cape Peninsula University in South Africa with a National Diploma in Office Management and Technology. She then completed a PGCE in Senior and Further Education and an Honours Bachelor in Education in Inclusive Education. She also has a certification in teaching professional reading instruction obtained from the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa. She has taught for over 10 years in South Africa teaching grades 1, 2 and 6 as a class teacher teaching various subjects before joining SIS in January 2024. Portia has also taught multi-disabled children at Athlone School for the Blind in Cape Town, South Africa. She believes that students learn at different paces and styles and learn best in a safe, supportive and fun environment. The network should include peers, teachers, family members and community members who can reinforce learning through practical and authentic applications.