Torunn Reistad Skurtveit is a principal at a primary school in Bergen, Norway, with extensive experience as a teacher and school leader. Her passion for cross-cultural educational experiences and the value of multicultural exchange has been a constant in her life. 

Her academic background is a teacher diploma and a master’s degree in organization and leadership, alongside studies in social anthropology.

At 20, she participated in a transformative project in India with a group of young people, where she experienced traditional Indian life, engaged in community service, and formed lifelong friendships. This journey introduced her to Ashalata Prasad, a program coordinator and interpreter who became a close friend and cross-cultural partner.

Over the past 25 years, Torunn and Asha have maintained a rich, intercultural friendship, broadening each other’s worldviews. 

She feels blessed to serve as Regional Director for AriseVillages, and encourages those interested in the program offerings to contact her.