ExploreXtraordinaire Center

Our team consists of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in early childhood education, special education, IT, and more. We are dedicated to applying our wealth of knowledge to assist your family in nurturing your child's development effectively.

Let us be Your Guiding Lights throughout Your Journey!

The ExploreXtraordinaire Center is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders in an ever-evolving world. Recognizing the limitations of traditional educational methodologies in addressing the complexities of the contemporary landscape, we commit ourselves to fostering an environment where young minds are encouraged to think critically, creatively, and independently. Our mission is to equip our children with the philosophical tools and thinking capabilities necessary to navigate, adapt, and thrive amidst the challenges of a radically changing world. By emphasizing self-directed learning, curiosity, and adaptability, we aim to empower our students to forge their paths, leading the way with insight, integrity, and a forward-thinking mindset. At the ExploreXtraordinaire Center, we believe that by cultivating a strong foundation of philosophical thought, we can unlock the potential within each child, setting them on a course to not only advance themselves but also make meaningful contributions to society at large.

Meet the Team

  • Mimi Yoo

    Co-Founder & Managing Director of ExploreXtraordinaire Center -Education Consultant, Advocate for Gifted Education

    For nearly two decades in the UAE, I’ve led efforts to support underprivileged students through the Gift of Education initiative (www.giftofeducation.me)—working with over 200 corporate sponsors, 20+ schools, and countless volunteers to deliver laptops, books, furniture, tutoring programs, career talks, and more. Together, we built libraries, launched student-led programs like Football for Happiness and First Key Music, and created lasting partnerships with organizations like the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Room to Read. This work was vibrant and community-driven—until COVID forced us all to pause. The pandemic exposed a hard truth: the digital divide wasn’t shrinking—it was growing. While well-resourced schools adapted quickly, underserved communities were left behind.

    That realization inspired the creation of the ExploreXtraordinaire Center. After months of research into how AI and emerging tech were reshaping education, I saw both a warning and an opportunity. Without intervention, the most vulnerable students risk falling further behind. But with the right programs, we can close that gap—and even flip the script. ExploreXtraordinaire is a bold step toward that future. Alongside two visionary partners and a team of forward-thinking educators, we’re designing non-traditional, early-career pathways that prepare young people for real-world success. We're just getting started—and if our mission resonates with you, we invite you to partner with us and help deliver life-changing opportunities to the next generation.

  • Mashenka Anand

    Co-Founder & Managing Partner of ExploreXtraordinaire Center - Education Consultant, Advocate for Autism and Gifted Education, & Special Need Director

    About Me

    I’m an educator with over 15 years of experience working with children on the autism spectrum in both the U.S. and Dubai. I’m trained in ABA and the Early Start Denver Model, and I’m currently pursuing BCBA certification. I hold a Master’s in Special Education from Lesley University and am a licensed special educator in Massachusetts.

    My career spans consulting, teacher training, and program development in autism and gifted education. I’ve led global workshops on early identification and strategies for diverse learners and have been actively involved with the Center for Autism Research and Education (CARE) in Massachusetts.

    ExploreXtraordinaire Center

    As co-founder of ExploreXtraordinaire Center, I’m committed to creating an inclusive environment where every child—whether autistic, gifted, or both—can thrive. My commitment to autism and gifted education is at the core of my work. I bring deep expertise and compassion to both areas, developing innovative approaches that support children’s unique strengths and challenges.

    We offer tailored educational and therapeutic programs that prioritize early intervention, family involvement, and research-driven practice. My goal is to make high-quality education and support accessible to all children.


  • Jae Baik

    AI DIRECTOR - Founding Member, Education Innovator, and Technology Advocate

    I’m a technology leader and education innovator committed to connecting the worlds of innovation and learning. I hold a degree in Electrical Engineering from UCLA, along with Master’s degrees in Electrical/Telecommunications Engineering and Education.

    I began my career in Silicon Valley, where I led enterprise technology initiatives as a Management Consultant and Product Manager for Fortune 500 companies and start-ups. Driven by a passion for transformative learning, I later shifted into education—pioneering computer science and AI curricula at top schools in Dubai and Los Angeles.

    Today, I’ve moved beyond traditional schooling to focus on my mission: designing forward-thinking educational solutions that help students think critically, learn independently, and grow into ethical, human-centered leaders in a rapidly evolving world.

    As AI Director at ExploreXtraordinaire Center, I lead initiatives that bring AI literacy and ethics into the classroom. My goal is to empower students, parents, and educators to shape the future. With a background in program management, product innovation, and educational leadership, I’m focused on redefining what learning means in the age of AI—and beyond.