Meet Zak – 8th Grader

Meet Zak, 8th Grade Student

Explore the interests, talents, and experiences of Zak, an 8th grade student at Àbulę.

Meet Zak, a passionate 13-year-old 8th grader at Àbulę!

Zak

Zak

13 years old • 8th Grade

“I enjoy learning about different art styles and improving my digital art!”

As an Àbulę student since 2024, Zak thrives in our interactive online learning environment where he can connect with peers and educators while exploring subjects that spark his curiosity.

Geography Enthusiast Animator Àbulę Student
STUDENT PROFILE

Zak’s Interests & Passions

At 13 years old, Zak has developed a diverse range of interests that shape his identity as a learner and creative thinker. His enthusiasm for learning extends far beyond the classroom, reflecting the holistic approach to education we foster at Àbulę.

Geography Music Video Games Nintendo Retro Gaming Travel Animation Saxophone Blogging

In Zak’s Words

“I love how Àbulę lets me learn on my own time, while still also keeping me connected to other students. My teachers encourage me to be creative and bring my own ideas to assignments!”

CREATIVE EXPRESSION

Zak’s Blog

One of the ways Zak expresses his creativity is through his personal blog where he documents his travels, gaming adventures, and reflections on what he’s learning in school.

Digital Literacy at Àbulę

We encourage students to develop digital literacy through creative projects that align with their interests. By maintaining his blog, Zak is learning valuable skills in a supportive educational environment.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

Zak’s Adventures & Explorations

At Àbulę, we believe learning happens everywhere—not just in the classroom. Zak embodies this philosophy through his passion for travel and exploration. His visits to museums, zoos, and cultural sites have enriched his understanding of geography, science, and cultural diversity.

Zak’s Musical Talent

Zak has been learning to play the saxophone for the past two years. Being part of a program like Àbulę allows him the flexibility to explore a wide range of hobbies. At Àbulę, we believe in nurturing artistic talents just as much as academic growth.

Watch Zak demonstrate his saxophone skills during a practice session, showcasing the musical abilities he continues to develop through ongoing practice and dedication.

STUDENT VOICE

In Zak’s Own Words

Reflections & Insights

At Àbulę, we value student perspectives and create regular opportunities for learners to reflect on and share their experiences. Here, Zak shares his thoughts on how learning about different cultures has impacted his worldview.

What has learning about other cultures taught you?

Creative Expression in Assignments

For a Creative Writing 101 assignment, Zak was asked to envision himself 5-8 years in the future graduating top of his class and create a valedictorian speech. True to his creative spirit, he took an unconventional approach—crafting a humorous video that showcased both his imagination and video editing skills.

Encouraging Creative Freedom

At Àbulę, we encourage students to take creative risks and express themselves authentically. Zak’s humorous approach to this assignment demonstrates how our educational environment supports students in developing their unique voices while mastering academic concepts.

Àbulę logo
Ah-boo-leh
(noun, Yorùbá)
A village or community where people learn, grow, and support one another through shared knowledge and cultural exchange. In traditional Yorùbá society, the concept embodies the collective spirit of learning and mentorship within a communal setting. Àbulę represents a digital evolution of this wisdom, creating spaces where students and educators can connect, collaborate, and thrive together in their educational journey.
Etymology: From Yorùbá, echoing the traditional African philosophy of ubuntu—"I am because we are."

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Àbulę is a program of the Floating Freedom Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

EIN: 33-2610751