CrEd Cairo Named CrEd Franchisee of the Year 2026
A global honour celebrating nearly two decades of creative excellence in Egypt
At the CrEdConnect Conference in Accra, Ghana on 19 April 2026, a moment of history was made: CrEd Cairo — led by the remarkable duo Maija Lamu and Gina El Zoheiry — was officially named CrEd Franchisee of the Year 2026.
For those who have watched CrEd Cairo grow, inspire, and lead over the past twenty years, this recognition feels not only deserved, but inevitable.
A Global Benchmark for Creative Education
CrEd Cairo has long been one of the most influential centres in the CrEd International network. What began as a pioneering effort to bring world‑class creative education to Egypt has evolved into a national institution — one that shapes children, families, schools, and the wider cultural landscape.
Their digital presence alone has become legendary. With a vibrant, parent‑centred approach on Instagram and Facebook, CrEd Cairo now sets the global standard for CrEd’s online communication. Their visual storytelling and consistent branding have become a model for franchisees worldwide.
As CrEd Director Duncan Rice puts it:
“CrEd Cairo has set a new global benchmark for creative education. Their work in Egypt is admired across our entire network.”
Nearly 20 Years of Impact, Innovation, and Leadership
Maija and Gina’s leadership has shaped far more than a centre — it has shaped a movement. Over two decades, they have:
- Built long‑standing partnerships with schools, cultural institutions, and community organisations across Cairo.
- Produced large‑scale theatrical productions that have become iconic moments in the educational calendar.
- Developed Egypt’s leading holiday programme, trusted by families nationwide.
- Grown their student numbers through reputation, quality, and genuine care.
- Maintained operations during periods of protest and instability — a testament to their resilience.
- Trained and nurtured an exceptional teaching team, raising the national standard of drama education.
- Advocated for the importance of performance arts in developing creativity, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration.
- Established CrEd as a household name in Egypt.
Their influence is felt in classrooms, theatres, homes, and communities — and in the confidence and creativity of thousands of young people.
Praise from CrEd Leaders Around the World
CrEd directors across the globe have celebrated CrEd Cairo’s achievement, each highlighting a different dimension of their excellence.
Alan Montanaro, Director of CrEd:
“Maija and Gina have built one of the most successful and respected CrEd centres in the world. Their leadership has shaped not only Cairo’s creative education landscape, but the direction of our international organisation.”
Lisa Semple, Director of CrEd:
“Their programmes empower children to express themselves, collaborate with others, and discover their own potential. The confidence they build in young people is extraordinary.”
Vicky Stroud, Director of CrEd:
“Their communication with parents, schools, and Head Office is exceptional. They run their centre with a level of care and precision that sets them apart.”
Arpita Mittal, Director of CrEd:
“The skills children learn through drama — creativity, communication, critical thinking, collaboration — are the skills that drive success in modern workplaces. CrEd Cairo has been a national leader in promoting this understanding.”
Houda Farrahe, Director of CrEd:
“CrEd Cairo has become a household name in Egypt because families trust the quality, professionalism, and heart behind everything they do.”
A Legacy Built on Vision, Resilience, and Heart
CrEd Cairo’s story is not just one of success — it is one of steadfast commitment. Even during challenging periods in Egypt’s recent history, Maija and Gina ensured continuity for their students and stability for their team. Their productions have given children unforgettable opportunities to shine, and their holiday programmes have become the gold standard for families across the country.
Their advocacy has helped parents and schools understand that drama is not simply an art form — it is a foundation for future success.
As Duncan Rice summarises:
“This award recognises nearly 20 years of excellence, resilience, and innovation. CrEd Cairo is a model franchise in every sense.”
🏆 A Well‑Deserved Honour
CrEd International proudly congratulates Maija Lamu and Gina El Zoheiry on this extraordinary achievement. Their dedication, creativity, and leadership have transformed CrEd Cairo into one of the most admired centres in the world — and strengthened Egypt’s position as a leader in creative, skills‑based education.
Their journey continues, but this moment stands as a milestone: A celebration of vision. A celebration of resilience. A celebration of heart.
