Colette Affaya is a dynamic leader in STEM education, business development, and project management, with over a decade of experience in driving innovative educational initiatives. As the Founder and CEO of Synergy STEM Partners, she is dedicated to bridging the gap between education and industry, creating impactful STEM programmes that inspire students and equip them with essential skills for the future.

Colette has a strong background in strategic leadership, curriculum development, and stakeholder engagement. Her career includes serving as an Education Liaison Officer & STEM Project Manager at Airbus, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the Airbus STEM Strategy. She developed and managed large-scale educational outreach programmes, fostering partnerships between schools, colleges, and industry leaders to enhance STEM opportunities for young people.

In addition to her corporate experience, Colette has worked extensively in education, from managing nursery schools to supporting student development at Coleg Cambria as a TRAC Student Support Advisor. Her ability to synthesise information, think strategically, and drive results has earned her recognition, including the Outstanding Personal Contribution Award at the Careers Wales #SchoolValuedPartners event in the Senedd, Cardiff.

Beyond her work in STEM education, Colette is also a Business Development Manager at HUG Enterprises, where she focuses on expanding market reach, forming strategic partnerships, and implementing growth strategies. Her expertise spans teaching and learning assessment, training and development, sales, and business innovation.

A passionate lifelong learner, Colette holds numerous qualifications, including a PgCTL Level 6 Professional Certificate in Teaching & Learning, diplomas in Business Administration and Special Educational Needs (SEND), and a BTEC Higher National Diploma in Nursery Nursing/Child Care. She is also trained in Mental Health First Aid, safeguarding, and mentoring.

Colette is an author of the children's book "Arkam, Numero and Numbers" and enjoys creative hobbies such as photography, upcycling furniture, baking, and decorating. Her leadership at Synergy STEM Partners is driven by a commitment to empowering students, supporting educators, and creating opportunities for businesses to engage with STEM education in meaningful ways.

Otman Affaya is an experienced STEM educator, leader, and curriculum innovator with over 23 years of global teaching experience. As a Director at Synergy STEM Partners, Otman is committed to bridging the gap between education and industry by developing dynamic STEM programmes that equip students with the skills needed for future careers.

His extensive international teaching background spans the USA, Kazakhstan, and Dubai, where he has taught Physics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Environmental Science, Earth-Space Science, and Mathematics. Otman has held leadership roles, including Head of AP Physics & Environmental Science at GEMS United School in Dubai, Head Physics Teacher for the IB Programme at Victoria International School, and Team Leader at Nazarbayev Intellectual School in Kazakhstan. His experience designing and delivering diverse curricula—including A-Level, IB, AP, and Cambridge International—demonstrates his ability to integrate global best practices into STEM education.

Beyond the classroom, Otman has a strong track record in curriculum development, student mentorship, and technology integration. He is passionate about making STEM education accessible and engaging by using hands-on learning, digital tools, and real-world applications. His multilingual skills (English, French, Arabic, and conversational Spanish) further enable him to connect with diverse learners and professionals.

Otman’s leadership at Synergy STEM Partners focuses on creating meaningful opportunities for students, fostering industry collaborations, and driving innovation in STEM education.