About Us

Our Story

Beyond Education was founded on a simple but powerful belief: when families thrive, children thrive.

After more than a decade working in education, our founder saw first-hand that many of the challenges children face in school – low attainment, poor engagement, limited aspirations – are deeply connected to what’s happening at home. Parents wanted to help, but often lacked the tools, confidence or support network to do so.

Beyond Education exists to change that. We put families at the heart of our work, equipping parents to become the drivers of change in their homes and communities, so every child has the best possible start in life.

Our Mission

By equipping parents and bringing families, young people and communities together, we create the foundations every child needs to grow, achieve, and thrive.

Our Vision

A world where every child – regardless of their family’s income, background, or postcode – can thrive in school and in life, supported by strong, confident and well-connected families.

Our Approach

We believe in holistic support that goes beyond the classroom:

Equipping Parents

building skills, confidence, and knowledge.

Inspiring Young People

providing hands-on opportunities to learn, grow and connect.

Bringing Communities Together

creating spaces where families, schools, and local organisations work together for change.

What Makes Us Different

While many organisations focus solely on children, we start with the people who influence them most – their parents and carers. We know that when parents are equipped, engaged, and connected, the ripple effects benefit not just their children, but the whole community.

Meet The Founder

Zoe Alexandra

Zoe Alexandra

Zoe Alexandra is a passionate advocate for mental health education and emotional well-being in Africa. With a background in global health and policy, Zoe has dedicated her life to bridging the gap between mental health awareness and accessible education. Her personal journey, combined with her professional expertise, drives Ilera’s mission to create sustainable, community-driven solutions for young Africans.

In addition to founding Ilera, Zoe is the host of Matters of the Heart, a faith-based podcast that focuses on helping women heal from emotional trauma and grow in intimacy with Jesus. Through her podcast, she provides a safe space for women to navigate their healing journey with biblical wisdom and practical strategies. Her work in both mental health and spiritual growth underscores her dedication to holistic well-being for individuals and communities.

Zoe is also the author of two children’s books, I Have a Friend Girl & Boy Edition, and an esteemed Health Tech Governance Consultant, working to improve digital safety and cybersecurity. Beyond her professional work, she leads She Overcomes, a ministry dedicated to helping young women build intimacy with the Lord, understand their identity, and grow in Christ. Through mentorship and faith-based guidance, she is committed to equipping women to walk confidently in their purpose.

Our Approach

We believe in holistic support that goes beyond the classroom:

Incorporating Mental Health into Lessons

We design educational programmes that teach students about emotional intelligence, coping mechanisms, and stress management. Our lessons include real-life applications, storytelling, and culturally relevant discussions that resonate with African communities.

Training Teachers and Staff

Educators play a crucial role in shaping the mental well-being of their students. We provide training to help teachers identify early signs of distress, offer appropriate support, and practise self-care to maintain their own well-being.

Leveraging Community Support

Schools alone cannot address mental health challenges. We partner with local organisations, religious groups, and mental health professionals to provide accessible counselling services and community-driven interventions.

Promoting Peer Support Programmes

We encourage student-led initiatives such as peer mentoring programmes and mental health ambassador networks. These programmes empower young people to support one another, reduce stigma, and create safe spaces for open conversations about mental health.

Through this holistic approach, Ilera is building a future where mental health education is not a privilege but a fundamental right for every young African.