Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Gia Bendandi spent most of her life working and traveling
abroad throughout South America, Asia, Oceania, and Europe. Her journey has been
one of knowledge, compassion, and awareness. Throughout her travels she studied
human development, early childhood education, global diversity, the Montessori
method, Waldorf education, nature-based learning, and holistic education.

Determined to make a difference and find her unique and authentic path in life, Gia
began teaching at Hamro Ghar, a school for former child carpet laborers in Kathmandu, Nepal. It was here that Gia became aware of how priceless education truly is. Thus began her teaching journey, and a passion to make the gift of education accessible to children from all walks of life.

Upon arriving in the US, Gia taught in both Montessori and holistic, nature-based
schools. Today, as a Mentor at the Whole Life Learning Center, she focuses her efforts
on working with her inspired team to make the ordinary come alive, to activate the
child’s own natural desire to learn, and encourage them to pursue their passions and
develop their skills. Gia‘s goal is to create a unique learning opportunity for her
students; A holistic approach to learning, honoring the natural development of the child. Encouraging the child to think, innovate, engage and explore. Gia‘s unique experiences offer many opportunities in the classroom to discover the world, and broaden the children’s knowledge of countries and cultures. Passionate about exploring the planet we live in, Gia ignites this curiosity into the lives of those she teaches, creating a love of diversity, equality, and a celebration of humankind.

As a lifelong learner, Gia is passionate about continuing her education and professional development. But without doubt, her best teachers have been the kids she has worked with. They challenge her to grow, yet never lose her sense of wonder, or the child within.

Gia feels incredibly blessed to be a part of the Whole Life Learning Center community.
When not spending time with her WLLC family, she enjoys adventures with her son,
exploring the great outdoors, or traveling someplace new.