As Gulu Gulu Learning Academy approaches its 15th anniversary in 2025, founder Karen Hiu Wah Chan reflects on a journey fueled by a deeply personal mission: to transform the educational landscape into one that prioritizes individualized learning, emotional well-being, and community impact. What started as a small effort in Silicon Valley has grown into a dynamic educational platform with four physical locations across California, a thriving online program, and a model that empowers both students and educators.
However, Karen’s passion for education stems from her father’s unwavering belief in its transformative power. “He called education a gift,” she shares. “Despite his limited opportunities, he supported me in pursuing mine. That is why I wanted to create a space where children could experience the opportunities education provides—without the pressure or toxicity I sometimes witnessed in traditional school settings.” This vision became the foundation for Gulu Gulu Learning Academy. Over the years, the academy has stayed true to its mission of supporting each child as a unique individual while evolving to meet the demands of a changing educational landscape.
The not-so-recent pandemic exposed significant knowledge gaps in young learners, particularly among children aged 4 to 7. These formative years, critical for foundational learning, were disrupted by school closures, leaving many students academically and socially behind. “We saw students in fifth and sixth grade struggling with second-grade material,” the founder explains. “The isolation also affected their emotional and social development. At Gulu Gulu, we address both by evaluating each child’s academic performance and by building trust and personal relationships with them so that they can gain confidence.”
The academy’s process begins with a parent consultation to understand each family’s unique challenges. From there, educators assess the student’s abilities and needs, using a relational approach to create a supportive environment. “It’s not just about academics,” Karen says. “We listen to their stories, check in on their emotional well-being, and help them rebuild social connections.” This dual focus on academic and emotional growth has helped Gulu Gulu Learning Academy stand out, particularly as online learning becomes a permanent part of the educational landscape.
Gulu Gulu rejects a one-size-fits-all approach to education. The academy’s programs range from infant and toddler care to after-school tutoring and financial literacy for older students. Teachers are trained to tailor their methods to each child’s learning style, creating an environment where students can thrive at their own pace.
For the academy, consistency and communication are key. Teachers dedicate time daily to one-on-one conversations with students, building relationships that foster trust and openness. Weekly staff meetings ensure educators feel supported and aligned with the academy’s mission. “By understanding our students and teachers on a personal level, we can create a dynamic that truly supports growth,” Karen notes.
Beyond its impact on students, Gulu Gulu is reshaping what it means to be an educator. Teachers at the academy have the opportunity to invest in the organization, opening new branches and gaining ownership stakes. This model incentivizes commitment and fosters a sense of pride and accountability among staff.
Families, too, can invest in the academy, a feature that has attracted significant interest. Through programs like the EB-5 visa initiative, foreign investors can support Gulu Gulu’s expansion while obtaining green cards for their families. “This initiative brings people from diverse backgrounds into our community,” Karen explains. “It’s not just an investment in education; it’s an investment in creating opportunities for families.” In fact, in 2023, the academy transformed into the Gulu Gulu Educare Corporation to symbolize the opportunity for joint ownership and global expansion.
One of the academy’s most inspiring aspects is its full-circle approach to education. Former students often return to Gulu Gulu as volunteers, educators, or marketing professionals. This continuity reinforces the academy’s emphasis on leadership development and resilience. “We train our students not just to excel academically but to grow as individuals with purpose,” the visionary founder says. “They know this is a place where they’ll always be supported.”
As Gulu Gulu celebrates 15 years, the academy is poised for an exciting future. Two upcoming books—The Christmas Awakening Seasons for Growth: How Parents and Teachers Master Their Emotions for Better Life and Grateful Journal for All—reflect the academy’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections and life lessons. This March 2025, the academy will further solidify its reputation as a leader in education by hosting the Global Educator Leadership Award. “This recognition is because of our students, parents, and teachers who make this journey possible,” Karen proudly states.
Karen Hiu Wah Chan truly believes the future of education lies in adaptability and inclusivity. “How people learn is changing, and we have to change with it,” she says. “At Gulu Gulu, we’re not just preparing students for the next grade—we’re preparing them for life.” With its innovative approach, strong community ties, and focus on holistic growth, Gulu Gulu Learning Academy is not just filling knowledge gaps—it’s building a brighter, more equitable future for learners of all ages.
Media Contact
Name: Karen Hiu Wah Chan
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