Ranya’s Pathway

Ranya has walked the halls of Bangkok Patana School for nine years, but her gaze has always been set on a broader world—one shaped by equity, empathy and a profound drive to help others. From her early days in Year 5 to her final months in Year 13, she cultivated a deeply rooted humanitarian spirit that is now propelling her toward a BA in International Development at King’s College London.

“I really enjoyed Geography, but I didn’t want to just study physical features or maps,” Ranya explains, her voice filled with conviction, “What drew me in was Human Geography—the way environmental changes and economic inequality affect people’s lives, especially in less economically developed countries. That’s where I want to make a difference.” Her understanding of international aid isn’t abstract—it’s personal. “There are just so many issues right now,” she says, “And I want to try and help.”

Her commitment to humanitarian causes isn’t just academic. As President of Her Period, Her Dignity, Ranya helped bring awareness to menstrual equity and the challenges women face around the globe. “Learning about the lack of access to menstrual hygiene in so many countries—it really opened my eyes,” she says, “It made me realize how something so basic can affect education, employment, dignity.” She also participated in the World Food Programme club, joining food drives and volunteering. “Seeing people just kilometers away from our school who are struggling—that was eye-opening,” she says, “It really made the disparity feel personal.”

Even in her younger years, Ranya’s heart was attuned to service. She joined Habitat for Humanity and Right to Read during her time in lower Secondary School. These early experiences, she says, laid the groundwork for her later leadership roles. “At first you’re just a helper, but slowly you understand the why behind what you’re doing. That’s what stuck with me.” Perhaps the most formative experience was the Geography trip to Chiang Rai in Year 12. While collecting data for her IA, she also spent a day helping build a house for a local school. “It was hard work, but seeing the progress we made in a day—it felt like we truly made an impact,” she says.

Having spent nearly half her life at Patana, leaving isn’t easy. “This school, this community—it’s been constant for me. I’ve moved around a lot, but Patana is where I grew up,” she reflects. “Even if I don’t talk to everyone daily, there’s a bond in our Year group. I’ll miss that.” As she looks ahead to London, she’s eager to grow—not just intellectually, but emotionally and socially. “I want to evolve, meet new people, and explore who I am outside the school setting. But I know I’ll always have Patana with me,” she smiles.

Congratulations Ranya, we can’t wait to see the change you will bring!