Some people teach. Others inspire. And then, there are those who do both with passion and warmth. Meet Zakia Khalfallah, a dedicated SAS trainer whose enthusiasm for teaching transforms learning into an engaging experience. In this edition of Learning Legends, Zakia shares her journey, challenges, and why in-person training remains irreplaceable.   The Passion for teaching What makes Zakia wake up with a smile every morning? Her job as a teacher. She thrives on sharing knowledge and helping learners grow. Many students travel long distances—by train or plane—just to attend her classes. This dedication fuels her passion. Every few days, she meets a new group of learners, each with unique backgrounds and aspirations. This constant change keeps her inspired and excited.   Overcoming challenges with pedagogy and warmth Teaching isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about making complex concepts simple. One of Zakia’s biggest challenges is ensuring clarity in her explanations. Whether teaching beginners or advanced users, she adapts her approach to match their needs.   Her first big career challenge? Hosting her first Ask the Expert webinar for SAS, where she introduced the latest version of a critical reporting tool. With around 300 attendees, the pressure was intense. But her ability to break down information clearly made the session a success. Some attendees were so impressed that they later requested personal training from her!   Making Programming easier with Expert Tips One of the things Zakia loves most about teaching is sharing tips and tricks that make programmers' lives easier. Her ability to simplify complex concepts has helped many learners gain confidence. You can find some great examples in these webinars from our Ask the Expert program. Check out these French webinars to learn more (about Zakia): ✔ Ask the Expert | 10 ways to make the execution of SAS code more efficient ✔ Ask the Expert | Proc SQL or Proc FEDSQL: What should a programmer use? ✔ Ask the Expert | SAS Enterprise Guide: 20 tips - 20 minutes!   A natural calling for teaching Is teaching in Zakia’s blood? Perhaps. With a family full of educators—including her mother, aunt and sister—she always felt drawn to the profession. Initially, she pursued an academic path, completing her doctoral research with the intent of teaching at a university. But something was missing. When SAS reached out, she saw an opportunity to combine her love for teaching with practical, real-world applications.   “I didn’t even know about SAS at first,” Zakia admits with a smile. “I googled it before my interview. But once I learned about it, I was already imagining myself working there.”   Making Learning accessible to everyone Many learners fear programming. “It looks too technical, too complex,” they say. But Zakia has a talent for turning that fear into confidence. Through clear explanations and hands-on guidance, she helps students see that coding is not only possible but also exciting.   Her approach? Simplify. Guide. Encourage. She doesn’t just teach; she adapts courses to match the learners' needs. Some need standard training, while others require customized programs blending multiple courses into an intensive learning experience.   Teaching: An Art, not just a Skill “Teaching is an art,” Zakia insists. “Not everyone can do it. Being an expert doesn’t make you a good teacher. You need patience, passion, and the ability to connect with people.”   As a trainer, she doesn’t just deliver content—she manages emotions, expectations, and diverse learning styles. Some students have never seen a line of code; others are seasoned programmers. Her job is to make both groups feel comfortable and capable.   The Power of In-Person Training Today, online training is more popular than ever. Some students who try out distance learning at SAS prefer to continue with it for the rest of their learning path. As educators, when we love teaching, we do everything we can to maintain a dynamic and friendly virtual atmosphere to ensure good assimilation of the concepts.   But for Zakia, nothing beats face-to-face interaction. “Online learning is useful, but it lacks warmth and human connection,” she explains. “When I’m in a classroom, I can read my students’ faces, anticipate their questions, and adjust my teaching on the spot.”   Live interactions create an engaging and dynamic learning environment. Students participate actively, ask questions freely, and benefit from immediate feedback. This real-time connection makes a significant difference in their learning experience.   Advice for Future SAS Learners For those considering learning SAS, Zakia offers simple advice: keep an open mind. “Many learners come in with preconceived notions,” she says. “They think programming is too hard, or that certain tools don’t work together. But once they experience SAS training, they realize how much they can do.”   Her mission? To show learners that SAS is for everyone—beginners and experts alike. With the right guidance and mindset, anyone can master it.   A Teaching style that stands out What makes Zakia unique? She brings humor, empathy, and energy to her classes. “There’s always laughter in my sessions,” she says. “Learning should be enjoyable. When students feel relaxed and engaged, they absorb knowledge better.”   Her impact is clear—students frequently request her for their next level of training. One learner even confessed, “I usually sleep through corporate training sessions. But in your class, I was fully engaged the entire time!”   Experience the Learning Difference Zakia’s story is a testament to the power of passionate teaching. Whether you’re new to SAS or looking to deepen your expertise, the right training can transform your learning journey. And while online options exist, nothing compares to the interactive, personalized experience of in-person training.   👉🏼 Want to experience this level of engagement for yourself? Explore our upcoming face-to-face training sessions and take your SAS skills to the next level!     ... View more

based on an Interview with Joanna Nawalany, SAS Trainer   What makes a great trainer? Passion, knowledge, and the ability to inspire. A great training experience isn’t just about the content—it’s about engagement, adaptability, and connection.   Joanna Nawalany, a dedicated SAS trainer with over 12 years of experience, embodies all these qualities. She has helped countless professionals grow their skills and confidence with SAS. But what makes her training sessions so effective? And why does she believe live, instructor-led learning is irreplaceable?   Let’s take a look inside her world.   Why Training Matters – And Why It’s Never Just One-Sided One of Joanna’s favorite things about training is that she’s constantly learning herself. "Even in a basic course like Programming 1, I often pick up new insights,” she says. “Different people bring different perspectives, and that makes every session unique."   This is exactly what makes live training so powerful—it’s interactive, dynamic, and adapts to the needs of the learners in real time.   From First-Time Trainer to Learning Legend Like many, Joanna had to overcome nerves in her early training days. She recalls one of her most stressful moments—being observed by an experienced colleague during a session. “I knew he was there to evaluate me, and that was nerve-wracking,” she admits. But instead of letting nerves take over, she chose to act confident. “I just pretended I was completely at ease, and eventually, I was.” That experience taught her a valuable lesson: confidence grows with practice. It’s something she now passes on to her students—learning anything new can be intimidating, but the key is to keep going.   Why In-Person Training still stands out With more and more courses moving online, does face-to-face training still matter?   Joanna believes the answer is yes. “Before COVID, we used to say no to online training. Now, it’s the norm,” she acknowledges. “But nothing beats in-person interaction. Seeing body language, answering spontaneous questions, and engaging directly—that’s where the real learning happens.”   If you’ve ever sat through a pre-recorded video course, struggling to apply the concepts on your own, you’ll know the difference. A live SAS training session lets you: ✔ Ask questions and get answers in real time ✔ Practice with hands-on exercises ✔ Learn from others’ questions and experiences ✔ Get expert guidance tailored to your needs   From Teaching to Gardening – growth is everywhere Recently, Joanna has found a new passion—gardening. And funny enough, she sees a lot of parallels between growing plants and growing knowledge.   “You need the right environment, the right conditions, and regular care,” she says. “Just like with learning, growth doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right support, you see amazing results.”   And that’s what a great training session does—it provides the right conditions for real, lasting learning.   Ready to grow your SAS skills? If you want to experience this kind of hands-on learning, check out our instructor-led SAS courses. Whether you’re just starting with Programming 1 or exploring Visual Analytics—a great entry point for both beginners and experienced users—we have expert trainers ready to guide you every step of the way.   👉🏼 Explore our upcoming courses here.    Joanna’s story is proof that learning never stops.     ... View more

This article is part of our Learning Legends series, where top SAS trainers share their expertise and insights. Based on an exclusive interview with Simon Arnold, SAS Trainer, this edition highlights a valuable tip for SAS Enterprise Guide users.   The Thrill of the Classroom For Simon, the excitement of teaching lies in the human connection. “I much prefer to be in front of a classroom with people,” Simon says. “Even if it means waking up early to head into London, I’m still excited to do it.” Simon’s enthusiasm stems from building relationships with learners. “In the UK, we call it banter,” he explains. “Having a joke, a conversation, learning something about them, and them learning about you—it’s all part of creating a connection. Once you have that, teaching becomes a collaborative journey.”   This interaction isn’t just about delivering information; it’s about understanding the learners’ challenges and tailoring solutions to their needs. “It might sound corny, but helping someone solve a work problem—making their life just a little bit easier—that’s incredibly rewarding,” Simon shares.   Watch the Expert Tip Here ⬇️   🎬Learning Legend Tip | Simon Arnold   This short video walks you through a practical tip that will help you use SAS Enterprise Guide more efficiently. No long explanations – just straight to the point!   Why This Tip Matters Saves time ⏳ – Speed up your tasks with smarter workflows. Boosts productivity 🚀 – Get more done with less effort. Easy to apply ✅ – Start using it immediately!   The Challenges of Teaching Online Despite his passion for in-person teaching, Simon acknowledges the growing trend of online education and the unique challenges it presents. “Teaching online is like the difference between performing live on stage and doing radio,” he says. “You don’t see the immediate reactions, so you have to remind yourself that your audience is still there, engaged, and eager to learn.” Another challenge Simon faces is staying mindful of what it’s like to learn something new. “After teaching SAS for so many years, it’s second nature to me. But for someone new, it can be overwhelming. To empathize, I’ve taken on learning challenges myself, like ballroom dancing, playing the ukulele, and even picking up Python.” These experiences remind Simon of the frustrations and triumphs of being a beginner. “It’s helped me break things down more effectively for my students, making their learning journey smoother,” he notes.   Want to read the whole Interview? If you want to read the full article with our Learning Legend Simon Arnold -  📌 Check out here: Learning Legends | The Journey to teaching Excellence       This is just a Teaser - watch the full video on the Link [here]      ... View more

this Article is based on an Interview with Simon Arnold, SAS Trainer   When it comes to making learning an experience rather than just a task, Simon Arnold is the teacher we all wish we had. As a seasoned educator with SAS, Simon has spent years perfecting the art of not just teaching but inspiring. In this exclusive interview, Simon shares what makes teaching exciting for him, the challenges he’s faced, and his advice for those stepping into the world of education.   The Thrill of the Classroom For Simon, the excitement of teaching lies in the human connection.   “I much prefer to be in front of a classroom with people,” Simon says. “Even if it means waking up early to head into London, I’m still excited to do it.”   Simon’s enthusiasm stems from building relationships with learners. “In the UK, we call it banter,” he explains. “Having a joke, a conversation, learning something about them, and them learning about you—it’s all part of creating a connection. Once you have that, teaching becomes a collaborative journey.”   This interaction isn’t just about delivering information; it’s about understanding the learners’ challenges and tailoring solutions to their needs. “It might sound corny, but helping someone solve a work problem—making their life just a little bit easier—that’s incredibly rewarding,” Simon shares.   The Challenges of Teaching Online Despite his passion for in-person teaching, Simon acknowledges the growing trend of online education and the unique challenges it presents.   “Teaching online is like the difference between performing live on stage and doing radio,” he says. “You don’t see the immediate reactions, so you have to remind yourself that your audience is still there, engaged, and eager to learn.”   Another challenge Simon faces is staying mindful of what it’s like to learn something new. “After teaching SAS for so many years, it’s second nature to me. But for someone new, it can be overwhelming. To empathize, I’ve taken on learning challenges myself, like ballroom dancing, playing the ukulele, and even picking up Python.”   These experiences remind Simon of the frustrations and triumphs of being a beginner. “It’s helped me break things down more effectively for my students, making their learning journey smoother,” he notes.   Why Teaching Is Worth It What led Simon to this path? It’s a mix of passion for performance and a genuine love for helping others grow.   “I enjoy being in front of people, whether it’s teaching or performing with my amateur dramatics group,” Simon says. “But more importantly, I love seeing that moment when someone understands something for the first time. It’s a buzz that never gets old.”   Look how talented he is. Always on stage.   Advice for Aspiring Educators For those considering a career in education, Simon’s advice is simple yet profound: “Be yourself. Don’t try to mimic other instructors. Authenticity not only makes teaching easier but also helps build genuine connections with your students.”   Simon also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning. “Put yourself in the shoes of a learner as often as you can. It’s the best way to stay empathetic and effective as a teacher.”   The Future of Education Simon observes significant shifts in how people approach learning.   “Education has moved online, which brings both opportunities and challenges,” he says. “People today want quick answers. They’re used to looking up specific solutions on YouTube or online tutorials. While this is great for immediate needs, it can lead to a fragmented understanding.”   Simon believes that comprehensive training, especially in-person, is essential to fill these gaps. “When you only learn the bits you think you need, you miss out on discovering better, more efficient ways to solve problems. Structured courses help connect the dots and unlock the full potential of tools like SAS.”   Bringing the Joy Back to Learning Simon’s enthusiasm and commitment to education are infectious. Whether it’s his efforts to make online classes more engaging or his belief in the power of in-person interaction, Simon reminds us that learning is about much more than just gaining skills—it’s about growth, connection, and discovery.   If Simon’s story has inspired you, why not take the next step in your own learning journey? Explore the wide range of in-person SAS training options available and experience firsthand the difference a passionate educator can make.     🍒 Here is a special cherry on the cake for you >>> Simon recorded a special Tip 💡 on #SASEnterpriseGuide for you: Learning Legends | Unlocking the Power of SAS Enterprise Guide     ... View more

Series: Inspiring Stories from SAS Trainers   This Article is based on an Interview with Wael Al Masri, SAS Trainer   ________________________________________________ "What's the best way to make learning memorable? Ask a trainer who's made it his mission to inspire others." ________________________________________________   Goals, Vision, and the Path to Success Every day starts with a goal for SAS programming trainer Wael Al Masri. “Every year, I set new goals, and even though the path isn’t always smooth, the journey is worth it,” he says. Aiming high keeps him motivated, with the most satisfaction coming from knowing he’s made progress. His approach offers a valuable perspective: don’t limit your ambitions. Learning or self-improvement is about setting big goals and staying open to where they take you.   Breaking Down Programming for New Learners Wael’s love for programming started young, and today he’s driven to spread this enthusiasm. Many of his students worry that programming is too technical or intimidating, but Wael loves watching them go from hesitant beginners to asking advanced questions. By demystifying programming and showing students it’s possible for anyone to learn, Wael’s mission goes beyond just teaching skills—it’s about shifting mindsets. Learning in an in-person setting adds even more value. Wael explains, “The live environment allows me to see reactions, adapt my style, and ensure everyone is engaged.” For anyone curious about SAS, live, hands-on training makes a difference, offering a supportive space to ask questions and get instant feedback.   The Power of Cross-Cultural Insight Wael’s background as a multilingual programmer gives him a unique perspective on training. “Some clients wonder if they should switch from Python or Java to SAS,” he says. With experience in various programming languages, he helps them see the benefits of SAS while respecting their current skill sets. For many companies moving towards advanced analytics, he provides not just training but a bridge to understand how SAS can integrate seamlessly into their work. His multicultural perspective also helps create a learning environment where students from all backgrounds feel included. The result? Wael’s classes are not just about the technical—they’re about fostering confidence and connection.   Training as a Skill and the Art of Engagement Being an expert isn’t enough to be a good trainer, Wael believes. “Training is a skill on its own,” he says, emphasizing that the best trainers are the ones who can communicate concepts clearly and keep students interested. A memorable piece of advice he once received was about the role of voice and tone in training. “Your voice will play a very big role in how you attract or lose your audience,” he explains. For new trainers, he recommends bringing warmth and enthusiasm to each session to create an environment where students feel comfortable and curious.   How AI and In-Person Learning Shape Modern Education Wael acknowledges that while education is evolving with more online options, there’s still a special value in in-person learning. “In a classroom, I can read faces and adapt in real-time,” he says. This human connection is harder to achieve online, where engagement cues are less visible. Still, Wael sees potential in AI to create more interactive and personalized learning experiences. While AI can help with forecasting student needs and suggesting content, Wael views it as a support tool rather than a replacement for real-life interactions that make training impactful.   For New Learners: Start with an Open Mind Wael’s advice for anyone starting to learn SAS? “Empty your cup so the teacher can fill it in.” Keeping an open mind is crucial for absorbing new knowledge. Preconceived notions can act as barriers to learning. Instead, approach every session ready to absorb and grow. Don’t be intimidated by new subjects. Wael reassures students that SAS is user-friendly and encourages them to take it step by step. This approach is part of his teaching style, as he breaks down complex topics into manageable steps, making learning enjoyable and accessible.   The In-Person Advantage for SAS Training While Wael enjoys teaching programming in various formats, he’s especially passionate about in-person training for SAS. “In-person, I can see who’s engaged, and when someone struggles, I can quickly step in to help,” he says. With virtual sessions, students may hesitate to reach out, but the live classroom environment provides immediate feedback and support, making it easier to stay engaged and motivated. For Wael, in-person training isn’t just about delivering content; it’s about creating a safe space where students feel encouraged to explore new skills with confidence. Final Takeaways: Empowering Learning Through Connection Wael’s journey as a trainer shows how impactful good teaching can be. His approach reminds us that learning is about more than just gaining knowledge—it’s about connection, curiosity, and the courage to set ambitious goals. With the right support, anyone can step into the world of data and programming confidently.   For those ready to take their first steps, in-person SAS training offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from experts like Wael. There’s nothing like being in a room with a trainer who’s there to guide, inspire, and help you reach new heights. The journey is worth taking.       ... View more

  Last month, I ventured into the heart of Berlin to attend TRANSFORM—an event dedicated to unravelling the mysteries of digital transformation, with a special focus on the remarkable world of artificial intelligence (AI). Let me take you through the journey, where innovation met inspiration at every turn.   TRANSFORM wasn't just any gathering; it was a buzzing hub of executives, decision-makers, and digital experts from various industries, all coming together to explore the ever-evolving landscape of technology-driven business revolution. Amidst the discussions and showcases, one theme stood out: the transformative power of AI.   At TRANSFORM, we heard how AI isn't just a far-off idea anymore; it's already changing how businesses operate worldwide. Companies are using AI to do things like analyze data faster than ever before, create chatbots that help customers, and even predict trends in different industries like healthcare and finance.   But here's the thing: while everyone talks about how important it is to change with the times, not many are actually doing it. Many people are still cautious and waiting to see what happens next. But the truth is, the time to transform is now! Even though our company, SAS, wasn't on the big stage at TRANSFORM, we're still a big player in the AI world. We're recognized as leaders by Forrester Magazine, and we're helping hundreds of businesses use AI to make better decisions and serve their customers better.   When I came back from the event, I found an article by Forrester that emphasized our role in shaping the future of AI. It was reassuring to see that our efforts were recognized, even we did get a spotlight on the event.      My wrap up AI is changing the world, and we're part of that change. We might not be the ones standing on stage at big events, but that doesn't mean we're not making a difference. Whether we're recognized or not, our work is vital in shaping the future of technology and business.   As we move forward, let's remember that the journey into the future of AI is exciting and full of possibilities. We're in the game and we're here to stay. ... View more

The data science skills shortage has expanded. This is mostly because of the increased demand for analytical skills, rather than there being fewer data scientists. But this is still a problem.   Traditional methods—particularly training more data scientists via university courses—have proved insufficient to meet demand. Companies are turning to alternative means such as democratization of analytics, improving employee skills and developing partnerships with universities. But are there aspects of the situation that we are missing?   Riaan de Jongh is a retired professor, now on contract at the Centre for Business, Mathematics and Informatics (BMI) based in Potchefstroom, South Africa. He is a strong believer in the power of innovation, idea generation and creative problem solving, and recently joined us for a #SASChat to discuss the skills gap in data science. Some fascinating insights and ideas emerged.     A growing demand   We started by talking about why demand was still growing for data science skills. Riaan suggested that the demand is driven by many factors. He cited the immense increase in computer processing power and the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT), the availability and expansion of more and more data sources, and the rapid developments in artificial intelligence and machine learning. He went on to say that these developments are creating new business opportunities, but they can only be exploited with the help of skilled data scientists.   The #SASChat noted that there are some real risks to both government and business if this skills shortage is not addressed. Riaan commented that skills shortages will limit the ability of companies to exploit many of the existing and new business opportunities, which could result in a loss of their competitive edge. The problems that are likely to emerge could be across various areas, including the range of services or products, the effectiveness and efficiency of operations, and potential cost savings and profit generation.   The real question, therefore, is how we can reduce the skills shortage. Riaan suggests that the answer is a different approach to teaching, saying: “We need to change the mind set of data science students to become professional problem solvers and lifelong learners.”   He noted that at the Centre for BMI, students are taught these skills. They are given real-world business problems that stretch them, and are taken through a process of problem formulation, solution generation, project planning and execution. This helps them to develop resilience and creative thinking. These skills are essential, because data science is all about asking the right questions. He cited William Edwards Deming’s comment that “If you do not know how to ask the right question, you discover nothing.”   Riaan also quoted Bradley Efron, President of the American Statistical Association, as saying, “Scientists have misled themselves into thinking that if you collect enormous amounts of data you are bound to get the right answer. You are not bound to get the right answer unless you are enormously smart.”     Driving change   How can businesses and government drive change? Riaan suggests that primarily, data scientists need to be motivated to develop their own skills through involvement in real-world projects. However, there is also a place for partnerships between industry and academic institutions, for example, through the provision of funding for data science courses, or bursaries for students. This would allow businesses more say in the teaching, and therefore give academic institutions a better understanding of what industry requires from its data scientists.   Riaan commented that the best upskilling technique he has seen is work-integrated learning, where academics work with practitioners on projects to solve business problems. This must be under the leadership of an experienced business professional who owns the problem. However, there are issues with this kind of partnership. For example, academia and business have very different reward structures and performance measures, and these can sometimes come into conflict. They also have different objectives, and this can lead to misunderstandings and issues of prioritization.   The tweetchat also identified other solutions that may help to close the skills gap. Federica Citterio noted that tools can help the democratization of analytics, for example by providing low-code or no-code interfaces. Commercial software can therefore play an important role in this process. However, perhaps the last word should go to Albert Einstein, via Riaan: “Information is not knowledge, the only source of knowledge is experience.”     Every Friday, there's a new edition of our #SASchat on #twitter - join us. Just this Friday, a great panel is talking about: "Seasonal schools on the path to democratization of AI" - how you can be part of it? - All info here: Seasonal schools on the path to democratization of AI | SAS Let's meet there!   #DataScience #AnalyticsLeadership #DataScienceSkills     Thanks to Prof. Riaan de Jongh for such great insights. ... View more