Ananda Team
In a Partnership with Yama Yoga Studios
At Ananda Yoga & Detox, our team is more than just a group of professionals – they are passionate individuals dedicated to creating an environment where transformation thrives. Each team member brings their expertise, warmth, and unique approach to wellness, ensuring that every guest feels supported, nurtured, and empowered.
Together, we strive to make your experience at Ananda a journey of self-discovery, healing, and holistic growth.
Valerie Jeremijenko
Director/Lead Yoga Teacher
Australian-born Valerie Jeremijenko (ERYT 500) is a seasoned educator, entrepreneur, and yoga teacher with over 35 years of yoga teaching experience in addition to extensive teaching, and program development experience across other multiple disciplines. She was a pioneer in the Middle East, founding Yama Yoga Studios in Qatar—one of the first yoga studios in the region—which thrived for over 15 years with multiple branches. Her background includes a strong foundation in creative writing, in which she holds both an MFA and a PhD. She has also worked extensively in dance education, production management, and non-profit leadership, consistently fostering the holistic development of students. Despite her impressive ventures in education and the arts her first love has always been yoga . . .
Fern White-Andrews
Director of Programs/ Senior Yoga Teacher
Bridging structure and soul, Fern combines over a decade of teaching experience with a strong professional background in leadership, communications, and project management. She holds a wide range of formal qualifications and teaching experience across yoga, wellness, and professional disciplines, which together inform her holistic approach to education and guest experience. As the Director’s supporting lead, she helps translate Ananda’s vision into meaningful programs and guest experiences — overseeing yoga, detox, and teacher trainings while guiding students on the mat and beyond.Before joining Ananda, Fern built a career in the UK charity sector, leading high-level partnerships, fundraising strategies, and large-scale events..
Somvadee Praspair
Operations Manager
Originally from Koh Phangan, Somvadee, affectionally known as So, brings a wealth of local knowledge and extensive experience in operations management to her role at Ananda Yoga and Detox Center. Her expertise encompasses overseeing the day-to-day functions of the resort, ensuring seamless coordination across departments, and maintaining strong relationships with local Thai partners and authorities. In addition, she manages our beachside restaurant, The Shell Lounge, where she also serves as head chef, curating a menu that reflects local flavors and detox friendly international foods. Her leadership and dedication are key to delivering exceptional service and unforgettable experiences for our visitors.