A Journey of Connection and Discovery: My Week in Bangalore with Quizizz

In January I was thrilled to be invited to join the team to launch their product in Australia. I was initially drawn to the company by their shared mission of enabling educators, of engaging students through gamification towards mastery and my shared passion for the responsible and powerful application of AI tools. The fact that my daughter loved their product from her own School’s use and demanded I join may have also played a small part in the decision. 🤫

As part of my onboarding, a trip to the Quizizz HQ in India was a critical starting point in building relationships, knowledge and confidence in the job that I had to deliver.

A very long journey in three photos :P

My journey from Sydney to Bangalore (also known as its traditional name of Bangaluru) covered over 9,350 kilometers, but the real journey was one of connecting cultures, ideas, and hearts across this vast distance. As a recent addition to the Quizizz team, this trip was a leap into a new chapter of professional and personal growth, underpinned by the spirit of connection that defines our global mission.

Building Global Connections:

Upon my arrival, the warmth of Bangalore embraced me, symbolised by a welcoming sign festooned with Quizizz stickers, a delightful introduction to my week ahead. The transition from the quiet of Sydney to the vibrant chaos of Bangalore’s streets marked the beginning of an unforgettable journey of understanding and partnership.

Who could not be left with a sense of joy being welcomed by this sign?

Cultural Immersion and Personal Highlights:

The culture of inclusivity and warmth was palpable from the outset. The thoughtful gestures from the Quizizz team, particularly the personal attentiveness of Deepak Joy Cheenath , the co-founder, stood out. Deepak went above and beyond to accommodate my inquiries, making time amidst his busy schedule to discuss ideas, answer questions, and guide me through the vision and values of Quizizz. His dedication not only to his work but to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment was inspiring. It left me feeling profoundly connected to the team and affirmed in my role within this diverse global family.

I discovered over the week that the heart of Bangalore’s charm was not just in its landscapes but in its people. The Quizizz team, with their unwavering hospitality, made sure I felt welcomed at every step. Whether it was the two staff members who visited me late at night to ensure my comfort or the delightful discoveries of local cuisine shared at our office, every moment was a testament to the values of inclusion and camaraderie that Quizizz stands for.

Each day I presented different gifts from my homeland as a form of cultural exchange

The gifts I brought from Australia, ranging from the uniquely Australian Vegemite to the much-loved Tim Tams, became a bridge between cultures, sparking conversations and laughter. This exchange went beyond mere souvenirs; it was a sharing of heritage and humour. Having seen poor colleagues over my time there attempt to eat Vegemite like it was a spoon of Nutella (for the record, this is NOT Nutella 😛 ) I even ended up making a Quizizz activity just to teach my new peers the right way to consume our national breakfast dish. A fun activity and a great way to use the tool.

A quick Quizizz on how to eat Vegemite. Would you pass?

Learning and Opportunities:

Engaging with teams across the company, I was struck by the collective passion and innovation driving Quizizz. Each day was a whirlwind of meetings, introductions, and collaborative problem-solving. The passion and expertise of every team member I met were palpable, making every discussion fruitful and inspiring.

The seamless blend of diverse perspectives and skills underscored the value of our global collaboration. The inclusive environment at Quizizz was evident, with hot meals three times a day that were not just about eating but about sharing stories, discussing global educational needs, and bonding over cricket, a shared love that transcends boundaries.

Lunch was always a great source of fantastic food, insightful conversations and awesome people.

Exploring Bangalore and Embracing Diversity:

The weekend offered me a chance to delve deeper into the heart of Bangalore. Walking over 18,000 steps, I immersed myself in the city’s vibrant culture, navigating through streets filled with colour, life, and the serene presence of cows. Thrilling cricket matches with local youths in a nearby park, despite the language barrier, highlighted the universal language of sport and joy.

Some of my weekend experiences walking around Bangalore

This experience, along with the traditional South Indian meals shared (no utensils mind you) with my team, allowed me to embrace and respect the beauty of different customs and traditions.These experiences, coupled with the daily life at Quizizz, reinforced the significance of diversity and inclusion in building a cohesive, innovative, and empathetic global team.

Leaving Bangalore was bittersweet. The journey back home, with a reflective layover in Singapore, gave me time to ponder the profound impact of this trip. The warmth, the new friendships, and the collaborative spirit I witnessed at Quizizz have filled me with energy and excitement for the future. This experience was more than just a business trip; it was a journey of personal growth, cultural exchange, and professional inspiration.

My last day left me conflicted. Relieved to head home to family but sad to leave my new one.

I returned home not just with memories and insights but with a renewed commitment to our shared goals and a deep appreciation for the diverse, inclusive culture that Quizizz champions. This trip was a reminder of how our global connections make us stronger, more understanding, and better equipped to create meaningful impact in the world.

Originally published at https://www.linkedin.com.