Lara Quigaman Finds New Purpose as Preschool Teacher in Canada
LARA QUIGAMAN – The former Miss International 2005 and actress, now 42, has started a meaningful new chapter in her life as a preschool teacher in British Columbia, Canada.
Now living abroad with her husband, actor Marco Alcaraz, and their three children, Lara described her role as an early childhood educator (ECE) as both rewarding and challenging.
In a feature aired by Omni Television on July 26, 2025, Lara talked about her everyday life as a teacher. She currently handles four preschool classes and also works in an out-of-school care program. She shared how much she enjoys working with children of different ages and finds fulfillment in helping shape their early development.
Lara recently graduated with honors in Early Childhood Education from Langara College. She said that becoming a teacher in Canada felt like a dream come true, especially since she discovered that her profession is in demand there. When she and her family moved to Canada in April 2024, she didn’t expect this path to open up—but she remained committed to pursuing her lifelong dream of working with young children.
She also acknowledged that teaching in Canada comes with its challenges. Classrooms are designed to be inclusive, meaning children with different needs—such as those with autism, behavioral issues, or limited speech—learn together. While this environment is enriching, it also requires extra patience, understanding, and compassion from teachers.
Lara credits her husband Marco as her biggest support system. His presence at home helps her manage the demands of both work and motherhood, something she says has been key to balancing her responsibilities.
To those thinking about starting a new life abroad, Lara offered some advice: pray, plan well, and make sure you’re emotionally and mentally prepared. She stressed that moving to a new country isn’t easy—but with the right mindset and strong faith, it’s possible to thrive. For her, teaching is more than a job—it’s a calling that takes heart, patience, and a deep love for children.