In this episode, Alex Sarlin speaks with leaders and finalists from the Global EdTech Prize about expanding access to education, supporting underserved learners, and using technology and AI to drive meaningful impact around the world.

💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How Edtech is expanding access for underserved and displaced learners.
New approaches to assessment, literacy, and learning outcomes.
How AI is enabling more personalized learning experiences.
How technology can support educators rather than replace them.
Why collaboration across the global Edtech ecosystem matters.

✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:02:38] Vikas Pota, Founder and CEO of T4 Education and Global EdTech Prize on the mission behind the prize and its focus on discovering and scaling Edtech innovations with global impact.

Finalist Interviews:
[00:13:16] Abdullahi Dahir Mire, Founder, Refugee Youth Education Hub (RYEH)
[00:28:59] Alina A. von Davier, PhD, Chief of Assessment, Duolingo
[00:43:34] Edan Shahar, Founder & CEO, Wild Zebra
[00:58:22] Dania Bush, International Educational Consultant, Renaissance Learning
[01:06:54] Gabi Immelman, Founder, Mindjoy
[01:18:21] Ami Shah, Co-Founder & CEO, Peekapak
[01:31:39] Quinn O’Brien, Chief Marketing Officer, Carnegie Learning

Watch the full Global EdTech Prize 2026 Top 10 announcement here.

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🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:

Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.

Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.

This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.

Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.

Global EdTech Prize Top 10 Finalists on AI, Access & Impact

Edtech Insiders

Global EdTech Prize Top 10 Finalists on AI, Access & Impact