For over 30 years international school leaders, teachers, and counselors have come together for PTC professional learning experiences. Each day of every program begins with a “pearl of wisdom,” a “nugget of knowledge,” or a “gem of inspiration” from one of the participants. We are delighted to offer our readers around the world these powerful stories, insights, and strategies, all dedicated to our shared mission of ever more and better learning for our children.
In this Pearl, Oliver shares his journey first as a student, then as a teacher, and now as a leader in international education. He discusses his experience with prejudice and bias as he navigated his various positions in the profession. He expresses his commitment to taking on proactive and adaptive leadership, affirming his dedication to working harder to set the stage for other aspiring leaders of color and empower his community members. He says, “Know yourself, believe in yourself, and acknowledge your limits… We need to take care of ourselves, be kind to ourselves, and set realistic yet impactful decisions that will make a significant change to our school community and beyond.”
Professional positions cited were the ones held at the time of recording. The positions and schools of those quoted may have since changed.
Oliver Chua is the Principal at Mahindra International School in India.
