The Town od Andes, New York
Nestled in the serene Catskill Mountains, Andes is a charming town that boasts breathtaking natural beauty, just a two-hour drive from the bustling streets of New York City. This idyllic retreat is celebrated for its pristine environment, offering crystal-clear air, good-quality drinking water, and a commitment to ecological preservation. The community thrives on locally sourced food and a vibrant arts and crafts scene.
At the heart of Andes, the foundation’s 13-acre estate features two historic residences conveniently situated within a stroll of the town’s essential amenities, including the central bus stop. Andes is truly a gem for those seeking tranquility without sacrificing connectivity.
Source: Google photos
The MANABU Center, currently under development, is poised to establish its innovative program on the MaNaBu Movement’s properties located in the Andes, at 255 Main Street and 217 High Street.
We are set to reframe learning by leveraging our expanding global network of pioneering educators and thought leaders by implementing a holistic, life-centric educational model.
This approach tailors education to each child’s unique interests, fostering personal growth and mindfulness and igniting a passion for learning by boosting curiosity and play. With a commitment to nurturing every child’s potential, we envision a brighter future for the next generation.
MANABU Center's Areas of interest
Life-centric education
Children are empowered to embrace future-forward thinking, and we are boosting their curiosity, creativity and problem-solving thinking. They learn through exploration, discovery, and by collaborating with others, as well as exchanging ideas. Upon their return home, they’re inspired to share their newfound knowledge locally, effectively bridging the gap between far-flung cultures and communities.
Board Members
Tihana Pavic Smitran
Tihana, an entrepreneurial spirit and innovative leader, advocates for sustainable development and empowers youth globally through innovative tech and life-centric learning. Her ventures reflect a commitment to a regenerative economy, balancing profit with planetary and people's value.
Shaped by wartime challenges, her resilience as a pianist and athlete inspired her dedication to supporting and uplifting children in adversity. Honored as Croatia's 'Best Startup Female Entrepreneur' in 2017, she is a recognized US State Department Professional Fellow and alumna of prestigious tech and innovation programs, holding an MA in Finance and multiple leadership certifications.
Andreas Wil Gerdes
Andreas Wil Gerdes, a pioneer in the digital nomad space, revolutionized remote work technology and made his mark in the telecom sector. By 20, he had sold his first venture, which evolved into a part of Orange PLC, and was later honored among the 'Elite of the Future' by top European firms. Featured in '101 Leaders of the New Economy' he has inspired hundreds of entrepreneurs – creating a supernova effect through the power of his vision in motion.
Andreas's true passion lies in advocating for a 'life-centric' approach to parenting, championing quality time with children over traditional norms, a vision shared by fellow digital nomad parents like Lona Alia and Lizz Quain.
John Heinsen
Transmedia Producer, Showrunner for Academy Awards for ABC/Disney, and former Vice President of the Producers Guild of America (PGA). John is a veteran of the FOX Broadcasting Company (where he oversaw FAMILY GUY and FUTURAMA), International Creative Management (ICM), and Castle Rock Entertainment and sits on the Influencer Advisory Board for the culture trends thinktank Sparks & Honey (Omnicom group).
Nick Bain
Scottish Screenwriter/producer across live-action and animation with 15 years in the TV and film industries. He is now creating 'The Last Gonzo', an adult animation with Shadowmachine, alongside Oscar winners and nominees Peter Ramsey (Spiderverse) and Jim Uhls.
Kamilah Gray Bain
Kamilah is passionate about the power of media to do good in society, and during her time at Facebook, she led a team of engineers, product designers and more to build and launch a social good product to billions of users, raising millions of donations, all while juggling motherhood and her passions for tennis and interior design. Prior to Meta, Kamilah was a marketer at Bloomberg Media, CAA, HBO, Time Warner Cable and AMC Networks.
Ante Pavic
Accomplished professional and visionary leader at the nexus of Technology, Banking, and Cybersecurity. Ante seamlessly combines his extensive experience in technology and banking with a compassionate commitment to youth empowerment and environmental sustainability, showcasing a unique blend of professional prowess and societal impact.
Martin McDonald
Courageous advisor. Excellent moral compass. Journey: Law, Automotive (BMW, Toyota, Lexus), Motorsport, (Formula 1 and WRC Teams, FIA & UIM Rights Holders, Moto, Powerboats, Sailing). Co-Founder P1 World Championship, Racing Simulators, Computer Games & Virtual Reality. Designer & founder of a Platform to connect humanity for evolutionary collaboration. Strategy/advisory for governments, blue chip, SME, Startups & personal brands. Passionate about real outcomes for Earth, humans, animals, sealife, impact investors, super delighted to be invited to Manabu Advisory Team.
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Partner institutions
Worldschooling Inc.
The WorldSchooling Inc. network identifies, evaluates, and shares the leading knowhow/ dohow globally to offer YOUTH Programs focused on Empowerment, Remote Skills, and Collaboration, embracing AI.