In this Pearl, Darby reflects on how her leadership philosophy grew from a simple but intentional practice: “hold space for others to thrive.” What began as sitting down with colleagues at lunch became a meaningful act of presence, listening, and trust-building, as she realized that “rather than being in their space, I was holding space.” By choosing compassion over judgment and pausing to truly hear others, she cultivated a department culture rooted in vulnerability, collaboration, and shared growth—demonstrating that leadership is less about fixing and more about creating the conditions where others can flourish.
Professional positions cited were the ones held at the time of recording. The positions and schools of those quoted may have since changed.
Darby Sinclair is the instructional coach at Taipei American School.
