People of IPS Cascais: Stevan Mijomanovic
People of IPS Cascais: Stevan Mijomanovic
Stevan Mijomanovic
Secondary Literacy Lead
English Teacher
Year 7 Form Tutor
Also known as " Mr. M "
Mr. M has over a decade of teaching experience spanning primary-age, secondary, university, and adult education. Currently serving as the school's Literacy Lead, his background includes teaching English for Specific Purposes at the University of Belgrade, instructing military personnel, and delivering EAL and English as a First Language across three international schools. From supporting five-year-olds, to guiding adult learners, he is dedicated to helping native, non-native, and multilingual students achieve their literacy and language goals.
Outside the classroom, Mr M is deeply passionate about art, language, literature, nature, and animals. He is a proud pet parent to Monkey, Björn, Lorelei, and Bunny.
Where did you grow up, and what was it like there?
I grew up in Belgrade, Serbia, where the Danube meets the Sava river. Although my childhood coincided with a turbulent time in my country’s history, my parents gave me a sheltered and steady upbringing. I spent much of my time in nature, drawing, and eating my mother’s homemade chocolate.
What’s a tradition your family had while growing up that you still cherish?
We always celebrated all the birthdays and special occasions together as an extended family. Even now, with a couple of us living abroad, we join in via video calls at least to sing the birthday song.
What’s your all-time favorite book, movie, or TV show?
My gateway into longer books was the Harry Potter series, but then, in my teenage years I discovered classics; one of my favourites at the time was The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde. Nowadays, there are a few, but my go-to whenever I’m feeling a bit out of place is The Hours by Michael Cunningham, either in book or movie form.
What’s a favourite memory from your childhood?
I don’t have one specific memory - it’s more like an atmosphere or an amalgamation of feelings and sensations. I remember the sound of my parent’s laughter, the taste of my mother’s cooking, the summer sea breeze and the smell of pine trees from our favourite holiday destination, all the inside jokes with my brothers…
How did you become interested in working in education?
Since I studied English Language and Literature, a career in education was always in the cards for me. As I love learning and, equally, sharing my knowledge with others, it was my next logical step. I tried finding the right fit, from teaching young children and adults, to university students. But life sometimes has plans for us, and it finally led me to middle school and high school education. I must admit, it is one of the most rewarding experiences in my career.
Tell us about your greatest achievement.
Being unapologetically myself. It wasn’t always easy, but I always carved my own path, regardless of societal norms and expectations. Going against the current has its challenges, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.
What is your steepest learning curve?
Doing my PhD in linguistics was quite challenging, as I was working at a university at the same time, changed topics and supervisors several times, and constantly felt imposter syndrome, doubting my capabilities and my life choices. However, even though it was completely different from what I imagined when I enrolled, it was worth it as it taught me perseverance and to trust my instincts.
How do you remain curious?
It’s my natural state. Learning is one of my greatest joys: there are so many things to learn, find out about, and explore. The natural world, cognition, language, and art are some of my favourite topics. However, I try not to limit myself, especially since I realised as a child how everything is connected. The world is a beautiful and intriguing place.
What motivates you to keep going during challenging times?
My pets. As much as they rely on me, I rely on them to remind me of how precious every single moment is. It’s a symbiotic relationship of love, affection, and commitment.
Who is someone in your life who has had a significant influence on who you are today?
Definitely my parents. They instilled in me a love of learning and creativity, critical thinking, and empathy. Also, I find their resilience and strength in the face of adversity grounding.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
It’s not anything anyone told me, but more a collection of proverbial sayings. The gist is to let go of the things you can’t change, change the things that are in your power to change, not regret things you have or haven’t done, and, finally, to experience life fully every day.
Why is IPS a great place?
IPS is a great place because of the community. Every member is appreciated and celebrated for who they are and what they bring to the world.
What’s something you hope to accomplish in the next five years?
I’m hoping to set roots here in Portugal, buy a house, and extend my family. But, beyond that, I hope to inspire students to be their best selves and to provide a steady, supportive space whenever they need guidance or a listening ear.