Beyond Academics: How Connection Transforms Learning

Beyond Academics: How Connection Transforms Learning

From Building Pathways to Healthy Minds: A ChildBuilders Podcast by ChildBuilders

April 24, 2026 · 30 min · Season 2 · Episode 14

About this episode

Lerato Mashiloane discusses the importance of connection in transforming learning and the impact of social and emotional learning on students.

In this powerful episode of Building Pathways to Healthy Minds, educator and principal Lerato Mashiloane (Ms. Mash) shares her experience working with students in South Africa and the profound impact of social and emotional learning. Drawing from both public and private school settings, she highlights the complex challenges many students face, from poverty and trauma to lack of support at home. Through her work, she’s seen how empathy, connection, and intentional relationship-building can transform a child’s ability to learn and grow. Ms. Mash also offers a personal perspective, reflecting on her own upbringing and how it shapes the way she teaches and parents today. She emphasizes that raising resilient, emotionally aware children starts with adults doing their own healing and modeling healthy behaviors. This episode is a reminder that while education is important, connection comes first—and it starts with us. Learn more about Ms. Mash here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lerato-mashiloane-610555148/

People in this episode

Guest: Lerato Mashiloane

Topics covered

  • social and emotional learning
  • connection
  • education
  • resilience
  • relationship-building

Keywords

  • education
  • empathy
  • trauma
  • support
  • children

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: ChildBuilders

Places: South Africa

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