Our Leadership Team:
Samuel Mott
Founder - Head of Gifted & Talented and Academic Support Services
Samuel Mott
Founder - Head of Gifted & Talented and Academic Support Services
Samuel Mott is the Founder of Lighthouse Academy and serves as the Head of Gifted & Talented and Academic Support. With a background in teaching and educational leadership across international schools, Samuel is dedicated to helping every learner reach their highest potential through challenge, creativity, and personalised guidance.
He has led the design and implementation of innovative enrichment programmes that nurture critical thinking, leadership, and curiosity in students—ranging from high-ability pathways and competition coaching to tailored academic mentoring. His approach blends British curriculum rigour with global perspectives, ensuring that each student develops both confidence and character.
As the driving force behind Lighthouse Academy, Samuel continues to shape a learning community that celebrates excellence, individuality, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Cynthia Bolton
Director of Gifted Education & Academic Affairs (Advisory Board)
Cynthia Bolton
Director of Gifted Education & Academic Affairs (Advisory Board)
Cynthia Bolton brings over two decades of experience in gifted and talented education, academic leadership, and programme innovation across Qatar’s leading educational institutions. As the former Head of Gifted Support, Pre-University Education (Academic Affairs) at Qatar Foundation, Cynthia played a central role in shaping national strategies for identifying, nurturing, and empowering high-ability learners.
At Qatar Foundation, she led the development of the Gifted Enrichment Programs, created in partnership with the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) — one of the world’s foremost institutions for advanced learners. This collaboration brought world-class enrichment opportunities to students in Qatar and set new benchmarks for talent development in the region. Her leadership focused on sustainable models that equip schools, educators, and families with the tools to recognise and support exceptional ability across disciplines.
Cynthia’s work has also intersected with leading universities and organisations, including Texas A&M University at Qatar, Qatar National Library, and Education City schools, where she has contributed to large-scale STEM, creativity, and leadership initiatives. Through these efforts, she has inspired countless students to pursue curiosity-driven learning and develop the confidence to lead with intellect and innovation.
At Lighthouse Academy, Cynthia serves as the Director of Gifted Education & Academic Affairs (Advisory Board), guiding the academy’s strategic direction in gifted identification, programme design, and curriculum innovation. She supports the alignment of Lighthouse’s enrichment pathways with international best practice and evidence-based approaches in advanced learner education.
Her deep understanding of differentiated instruction, inquiry-based learning, and educational equity ensures that Lighthouse Academy continues to lead the way in providing exceptional learning experiences for gifted, talented, and high-potential students across Qatar and beyond.
Note: Cynthia Bolton’s advisory role with Lighthouse Academy is independent and non-operational. Her association does not represent formal endorsement by Qatar Foundation or any affiliated entity.
Adam
Head of Recruitment (in Partnership with Doha Education Recruitment)
Adam
Head of Recruitment (in Partnership with Doha Education Recruitment)
Adam is the Head of Recruitment at Lighthouse Academy and the Founder of Doha Education Recruitment. He specialises in connecting exceptional educators with outstanding opportunities—supporting Lighthouse Academy in sourcing the very best tutors for its students and partnering with leading schools across Qatar and beyond.
With extensive experience in international education recruitment, Adam brings a deep understanding of what makes a great teacher and a great fit. His expertise ensures that every placement upholds the academy’s high standards of excellence, professionalism, and care. Through his work, Adam continues to strengthen the educational network that supports Lighthouse Academy’s growing community.
- Phone:+97430577136
- Email:info@thelighthouseacademy.org
Zenta Nel
Head of Marketing
Zenta Nel
Head of Marketing
Zenta is the Head of Marketing at Lighthouse Academy, leading the creative direction and digital growth of the academy’s brand across Qatar and beyond. She oversees all marketing campaigns, social media strategy, and community engagement initiatives, ensuring that Lighthouse Academy’s vision of excellence and innovation reaches students, parents, and partner schools.
With a strong background in digital media, branding, and education marketing, Zenta is passionate about connecting families with learning opportunities that inspire confidence and curiosity. Her work combines creativity and strategy to showcase the academy’s unique programmes, from gifted education to academic support and enrichment pathways.
Cyndi Nguyen
Head of Admissions
Cyndi Nguyen
Head of Admissions
Cyndi is the Head of Admissions at Lighthouse Academy, guiding families through every step of the enrolment process with care, clarity, and professionalism. She ensures that each student’s journey into the academy begins smoothly, helping parents make informed choices that best support their child’s learning goals.
With a deep understanding of both academic placement and student potential, Cyndi works closely with the academic and gifted teams to match learners with the right pathways and programmes. Her commitment to excellence and her warm, personal approach make her a trusted first point of contact for families joining the Lighthouse community.
- Phone:+97430577136
- Email:info@thelighthouseacademy.org