To all future language stars! Let’s dive into the inspiring journey of Dr. Ryan James Whitehouse, better known as Kru Jaem. Born in Auckland in 1987 and raised in the vibrant Te Atatu South area, he’s all about making learning fun and accessible for everyone! In 2017, he kicked off his academic adventure by earning a Bachelor of Education in English Language Teaching (Honors) from St. Mary’s in the Catholic Diocese of Auckland. This was just the beginning—his love for education led him to Paris, where he completed a Master of Science in Mental Health Psychology, learning how our minds work and how to help others succeed.
But that’s not all! Dr. Jaem also earned a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Assumption University in Thailand in 2020, honing his leadership skills. The following year, he added a Master of Applied Management from the Southern Institute of Technology in New Zealand to his impressive portfolio. Most recently, in 2022, he completed his doctorate in Educational Leadership at St. Mary’s, focusing on tertiary leadership and Māori development. His research emphasizes inclusivity and equality, proving his commitment to creating a welcoming environment for students from all walks of life.
Growing up in a multicultural household—his mother from Tokoroa and his father from Rotorua—Dr. Jaem developed a deep appreciation for diversity early on. Participating in a two-week student exchange to Singapore and Japan during his school years further fueled his passion for cultural exploration. Since 2008, he has built a reputation for his engaging teaching style and has trained in IELTS instruction with IDP Australia. After two decades in Chiang Mai, Thailand, he founded Thinkin Cafe during the COVID-19 pandemic to meet the growing demand for quality English language support. Dr. Jaem is on a mission to make quality English education accessible to all, and his exciting background and experiences make him the perfect guide for your learning adventure!
