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Today marks 1 year since I officially joined @InspireSELondon as a Trustee. I want to share some reflections on my time so far and lessons I've taken to other parts of life.
1. IMPOSTER SYNDROME IS REAL
It's real but entirely self-generated. It wasn't until quite recently I realised my value to the Trust board and I wish I had sooner. It's no fault of anyone; however, I put pressure on myself to be something given I was the youngest around the table
It's real but entirely self-generated. It wasn't until quite recently I realised my value to the Trust board and I wish I had sooner. It's no fault of anyone; however, I put pressure on myself to be something given I was the youngest around the table
2. AGE IS ONLY A NUMBER
I bring another perspective because of my age. However, we all advocate for the same thing. I can equally contribute (although it's taken time to build the confidence) and be heard. If you have a place, there's a reason for it.
I bring another perspective because of my age. However, we all advocate for the same thing. I can equally contribute (although it's taken time to build the confidence) and be heard. If you have a place, there's a reason for it.
3. GOVERNANCE IS COMPLEX
Complex is such a cliche word but I it's definitely appropriate here. It's complex because sometimes we get lost in it. On the inside it can feel quite difficult while on the outside it seems easy. Striking the balance and being decisive are the keys.
Complex is such a cliche word but I it's definitely appropriate here. It's complex because sometimes we get lost in it. On the inside it can feel quite difficult while on the outside it seems easy. Striking the balance and being decisive are the keys.
4. NEVER UNDERVALUE THE CHAIR'S ROLE
@MsKarenGiles has become a trusted mentor for me as I traverse the educational landscape. We first met at @ChallengePartnr City Hall event and she has helped me every step of the way. A chair can bridge gaps; Karen has done just that for me.
@MsKarenGiles has become a trusted mentor for me as I traverse the educational landscape. We first met at @ChallengePartnr City Hall event and she has helped me every step of the way. A chair can bridge gaps; Karen has done just that for me.
5. EDUCATION HAS ITS NUANCES
Every sector has its own rules, playbook and nuances. There are more three letter acronyms that I could count. It's not something to be overwhelmed by. A tip is to ask questions, take it slow and seek help when you need it.
Every sector has its own rules, playbook and nuances. There are more three letter acronyms that I could count. It's not something to be overwhelmed by. A tip is to ask questions, take it slow and seek help when you need it.
6. IT'S ALL ABOUT THE CHILDREN
I got into this because I remember how influential @carpenter_rob was when he was my headteacher. Visiting @MaundeneSchool @PrimaryElaine @TheDEN_Elaine made me realise I was doing the right thing. https://twitter.com/sdhnaqvi/status/1195467414986743815?s=20
I got into this because I remember how influential @carpenter_rob was when he was my headteacher. Visiting @MaundeneSchool @PrimaryElaine @TheDEN_Elaine made me realise I was doing the right thing. https://twitter.com/sdhnaqvi/status/1195467414986743815?s=20
7. FIND YOUR SPACE
Some Trustees come from corporate roles in finance, HR, legal. Some come from education. I am still in education. I care about capacity, Trust sustainability, children's mental health and life chances.
Some Trustees come from corporate roles in finance, HR, legal. Some come from education. I am still in education. I care about capacity, Trust sustainability, children's mental health and life chances.
8. PLAY TO YOUR STRENGTHS
Because of my interests and knowledge, I've enjoyed committee responsibilities with @Penny_Ten and @MsKarenGiles as of late. More to come with @carpenter_rob and new additions.
Because of my interests and knowledge, I've enjoyed committee responsibilities with @Penny_Ten and @MsKarenGiles as of late. More to come with @carpenter_rob and new additions.
Overall, I'm really grateful that I could give back to my home communities. I'm extremely lucky that the Trust saw something in me and now I see it in myself. I hope to continue this work as long as I can (or should I say... as long as timezones allow!)
