The Skills, Leadership & Transformation Institute’s Post

As a woman entrepreneur in education, 𝐈’𝐯𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞. When women lead in education, we aren’t just creating classrooms; we’re building dreams. We’re crafting spaces where curiosity thrives, inclusivity is celebrated, and students are prepared not just for exams, but for life. Coming from a CA background, I spent years focused on studies and numbers. But stepping into my family business was a turning point. 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒆𝒍 𝒊𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒓𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒑 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐. 𝑾𝒆’𝒓𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒓—𝒂𝒅𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆, 𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒕, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒇𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒖𝒑𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒆𝒏𝒗𝒊𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒘𝒆 𝒋𝒐𝒊𝒏 Women have always been the first teachers and nurturers of every generation. We’ve shaped societies quietly but powerfully. Today, as leaders and entrepreneurs, we’re proving that our impact goes far beyond traditional roles. I truly believe women are the future. When we rise, we lift entire communities with us. By empowering women in education, we’re setting the stage for fearless learners and future leaders who will transform the world. "𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧; 𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝." Let’s keep pushing boundaries, breaking stereotypes, and making the future listen.

Why Investing in Children’s Education is Investing in the Future. Children often embody purity and potential. Their minds are like sponges, absorbing knowledge, values, and skills that will shape their future and, by extension, the future of our communities and nations. When we invest in their education and personal development, we are not just nurturing individuals but we are also cultivating the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. Every lesson we impart, every opportunity we provide, contributes to building a stronger, more progressive society. Let’s commit to equipping our children with the tools they need to thrive, and in turn, build a brighter future for everyone. #FutureLeaders #ChildEducation #InvestInKids #YouthDevelopment #BuildingTomorrow #EducationalImpact #EmpowerTheFuture #NextGeneration #LeadershipDevelopment #SocietalProgress

China Gilreath reports: Women of Color Education Collaborative (WOCEC), a new nonprofit organization, has sprung up to address the lack of #diversity among K-12 #superintendents in the nation.  Led by Stephanie Wood-Garnett, Ed.D., WOCEC provides a cohort model through which current and aspiring educational leaders can interact and empower each other as leaders, build relationships, and elevate their skills through the array of professional development services that WOCEC provides. "I am thrilled to lead an organization that champions and supports women leaders,” said Wood-Garnett, who formerly served as an associate vice president at the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and president of the Institute for Student Achievement. “I understand the unique challenges diverse women leaders face in organizations. When women come together and develop trust and community, we create a foundation for collaboration, support, and lasting positive change in our communities.” Dr. Jamal Watson, executive editor at Diverse: Issues In Higher Education, has been tapped to chair WOCEC’s board of directors. He said that the work of WOCEC is critically important in helping to expand the talent pool within K-12 and higher education.  “WOCEC is taking the lead to formulate solutions and actionable outcomes that will harness resources and contacts to provide access and equity to all," said Watson, who is also a professor at Trinity Washington University. "Under President Wood-Garnett's leadership, I am excited to see how this organization and network will continue to expand in the upcoming years."  Registration is now open for the WOCEC national conference. This year’s event, themed “Fostering Community, Support, and Empowerment,” will take place Oct. 10 -12, 2024, in Washington, D.C. #AuthenticRepresentation #DiversityInclusion #SchoolDistricts #SchoolSuperintendents #WomenLeaders #BlackWomenLeaders #EducationalLeadership #DiversityInEducation

In many conversations I’ve taken part in this year, across multiple countries, it’s clear that our focus must shift toward creating increasingly inclusive, responsive school environments, sufficiently supported and resourced. In my journey as a teacher and leader, I’ve seen how prioritizing inclusion transforms students’ experiences and the way we, as schools, can reenvision challenges as opportunities. As I prepare to dive into research at the intersections between educational leadership, inclusion, and innovation, I wonder: > How do we most efficiently equip leaders to support their staff in addressing the needs of all learners? > What structures and supports best enable schools to foster inclusive, sustainable growth? >How can we engage new perspectives in these conversations and ensure representation of all voices in this process? In the coming year, I’m hoping to engage in more conversations, globally, about systemic shifts in education that prioritize empathy and shared responsibility as we approach these conversations.  What steps do you think schools need to take toward this end in the coming year, and what other priorities do you see as essential for 2025 and beyond? #EducationalLeadership #Inclusion #EquityInEducation #FutureOfEducation #EdChat #Teaching #Learning UNESCO https://unes.co/3gxnnd

✨ The Power of Radical Inclusion ✨ "There is nothing more important and also joyful than removing the barrier of exclusion that allows somebody to show up in their full self in a place where they were excluded from. We all are better when we're able to have these diverse and different views, think together, play together, laugh together, problem-solve together." – David Moinina Sengeh This quote, drawn from the Transforming Education in an Interconnected World Specialization by the University of Michigan, designed by the brilliant Donald Peurach, captures the heart of what true transformation looks like. Change-making is not easy, it demands courage, perseverance, and systematic approaches. Yet, it is possible when we commit to inclusion and equity. The journey is not about waiting for saviors, it’s about us. Every one of us has the power to act as a local change agent: breaking barriers, advocating for justice, and building a world where everyone can thrive. Let this inspire us to reimagine education, leadership, and community. Together, we can create spaces where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered. Transformation isn’t just a dream, it’s a reality we can build, starting today. 💡 Together, we are the possibility. Let’s make it happen. #RadicalInclusion #TransformingEducation #ChangeAgents #DiversityAndInclusion #Leadership #EducationMatters #PossibilityIsHere #Umich #Goblue #KristelOyola

At Aspect Foundation, we believe that education is the key to unlocking limitless potential. Our mission is to create opportunities for the next generation of changemakers, ensuring that every child has access to quality education. By lighting the path for these young minds, we're fostering future leaders who will drive positive change in their communities and beyond. Our education initiatives aim to break barriers, support underprivileged students, and provide them with the resources they need to thrive. From scholarships to infrastructure development, we are committed to transforming lives through learning. Join us in empowering the future—one classroom, one student, and one dream at a time. Together, we can build a brighter tomorrow. #AspectFoundation #EducationForAll #FutureLeaders #Changemakers #EmpowermentThroughEducation #SocialImpact #CommunityDevelopment #EducationInitiatives #BuildingFutures #NextGeneration

☀️Another recommendation from a book I read in the summer: As the Curriculum review is underway, I want to encourage educators by reminding us that we hold the power to redefine the curriculum and create truly inclusive spaces. I found Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed a call to action to create an inclusive curriculum: 🔑 Empowerment Children shouldn't be seen as empty vessels to be filled with knowledge. Instead, the curriculum must value real-world experiences and community knowledge to empower learners. 🔑 Critical thinking True education helps learners critically analyze their world, challenging inequalities, and working for social justice. How can we design curricula that raise this consciousness? 🔑Inclusion Is Non-Negotiable Inclusion isn't just about diversity: it's about creating spaces where every learner’s voice has power. Labour listen up! The future of education depends on creating spaces where every learner feels seen, heard, and empowered. #EducationForAll #Inclusion #CurriculumDesign #PauloFreire #PedagogyOfTheOppressed #SocialJustice #Leadership #TransformativeLearning

This #wonderfulwomenwednesday I'd like to champion four women driving innovation and positive change in #education. These women are at the forefront of transforming education, championing innovative practices that shape the future. From early childhood to higher education, these women educators, leaders, and advocates are creating inclusive, dynamic learning environments that empower students and communities alike. In classrooms, these women are implementing forward-thinking teaching methods, integrating technology, and fostering critical thinking to prepare students for an ever-changing world. They are breaking down barriers, promoting STEAM (because the Arts are important too) education, and ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have access to quality learning opportunities. Beyond the classroom, these women are driving policy changes, creating educational programmes, and advocating for equitable access to education. They are addressing systemic challenges, such as the digital divide and underrepresentation, to ensure that education is a tool for empowerment and social change. These women’s impact in education extends to community-building as well. By promoting lifelong learning and skills development, they are helping individuals adapt, grow, and contribute meaningfully to society. Their efforts are not just changing lives; they are shaping the future workforce and fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity. By supporting women’s contributions to education, we can nurture a more equitable, innovative, and empowered society. Their work is vital in building an educational landscape where every student has the opportunity to thrive and make a difference. So here's to you four: Rebecca White if Future Focus TwentyOneC Dr Anita McKeown, FRSA, FIPM of Future Focus TwentyOneC Lucy Hunt of The Ocean Race Helena Good of Daydream Believers #WomenInEducation #EducationalInnovation #InclusiveLearning #STEAMEducation #STEMEducation #EmpowerThroughEducation

Skills Outside School Foundation: Stronger Together; Partnering for Girls' Education in Science! Advocacy isn't just about conversations; it's about creating impactful coalitions. That's why we've teamed up with the private sector to go beyond traditional corporate social responsibility (CSR) and truly embed the principles of sustainability into their core operations. This commitment to partnership was showcased when we joined forces with Tongston Entrepreneurship Group: Holdings, Institute, College, Media and Ventures. Together, we celebrated the International Day of Women and Girls in Science by supporting secondary education for girls. Together, we designed, delivered, and implemented a competition to empower girls in science education. This incredible collaboration, not just CSR, showcased the power of the private sector in achieving the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). By mainstreaming sustainability and aligning development with core mandates, businesses like Tongston Entrepreneurship Group can make a real difference. Tongston Entrepreneurship Group, a leader in education, enterprise, media, and finance, has been an exemplary partner in this journey. As we continue to build these bridges, we invite more private sector organizations just like Tongston Entrepreneurship Group to join us in mainstreaming sustainability and truly transforming lives. Stay connected to see how our collaborations create lasting impacts Skills Outside School Foundation #SOSF #Tongston #SDGs #Sustainability #EducationForAll #WomenInScience www.tongston.com #PartnershipForChange #CorporateSocialResponsibility #ImpactThroughCollaboration #SDGs #GirlsInScience #Partnerships #Education #Tongston #Empowerment #data #advocacy #skills #education #employability #SOSF #philanthropy #development #impact #data #interventions #advocacy #skills #school https://lnkd.in/dEiy7V6

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗨.𝗦. 𝗗𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻’𝘀 𝗥𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗿: 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 represents a major leap forward in our mission to build a more equitable and high-quality education system. This initiative is designed to uplift all students by closing achievement gaps, supporting educators, and preparing young people for the challenges of a global economy. Through 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 with schools, families, and communities, the program focuses on improving literacy, enhancing STEM opportunities, and fostering an environment where every child can 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲. 𝗡𝗼𝘄 more than ever, it's vital that we equip students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. Let’s work together to elevate the future of education. Check out the link in the comments #AdvocateDad #RaiseTheBar #LeadTheWorld #EducationLeadership #StudentSuccess #USDepartmentOfEducation #STEM #EducationTransformation