As a member of Aspiring Heads, I have found an invaluable community that thrives on learning, inclusivity, and unwavering support. Monthly learning sessions led by passionate educators not only impart knowledge but also emphasise the significant impact of Black educational leaders, shedding light on their invaluable contributions.

The annual summits organised by Aspiring Heads are nothing short of transformative. They serve as dynamic platforms where ideas converge, fostering collaboration and innovation in the educational sphere. These summits empower educators to embrace change, challenge norms, and redefine the future of learning.

Nadine and Ethan, the guiding spirits behind Aspiring Heads, embody a spirit of unwavering support. In times of crisis, their leadership and empathetic approach have been a beacon of reassurance and encouragement. Their dedication to nurturing a community that prioritises growth, diversity, and resilience is commendable.

Aspiring Heads isn't just an association; it's a catalyst for change. It fosters a culture where diverse voices are heard, where learning is continuous, and where support is abundant. It's a place where educators come together to aspire, achieve, and uplift one another.

I am immensely grateful for the enriching experiences, the supportive network, and the invaluable insights gained through my journey with Aspiring Heads. It's more than an association; it's a family that propels us toward excellence in education.

Spent an inspiring time with Cohort 6 on the Aspiring Heads programme. It was wonderful to network with so many aspiring leaders of colour, which in itself was empowering.
So many nuggets of information which have been useful to look back on and remember, especially when coming across challenges to day to day education.

The creation of safe and empowering spaces is essential for the progression and development of our Black School Leaders. Aspiring Heads have achieved this through a series of events that provide both inspiration and enfranchisement. The future of our workforce depends on initiatives such as this so that representation at the highest level of school leadership is both authentic and inspirational to our children and young people.

We are proud to partner with Aspiring Heads on our Leaders Like Us leadership development programme for teachers from UKME / GMH backgrounds. Nadine’s values, passion and her own leadership journey bring a deep authenticity to her work which others are keen to learn from. She is an excellent headteacher, coach and facilitator who has channelled her energy into developing others through Aspiring Heads. Nadine’s motivation and balance combine to form a model for life and leadership which is infectious.

Before starting AH, I knew the kind of leader I wanted to be but needed to be able to articulate that vision with clarity and confidence. I have been encouraged to take practical steps towards achieving my goals and feel empowered. AH has really shaped who I am today, given me the tools and confidence to delve deeper into key aspects of leadership and take control of my own personal growth.

Truly transformative programme that equipped me with practical strategies to work towards career progression. Nadine and the guest speakers evoked renewed confidence on me and built my knowledge of the skills and competencies required to achieve headship. I was pushed out my comfort zone, supported and encouraged to take proactive steps upwards. I have developed a network of educators and began creating mentoring relationships. It has been an empowering experience.

I met Nadine when she was at the start of her Headship career through some shared networks. She shared her journey to becoming a young Headteacher and a parent sharing her authentic self and modelling her values – her story resonated with many in the room.

I later visited her at her primary school and witnessed firsthand her vision for a child-centred education for her community. We have stayed in touch and our paths have crossed at various events, I have enjoyed following her journey as a school leader as she leads with her heart and invests her passion in lifting others, children and colleagues.

She is a visible role model for women, for global majority educators, for parents/carers and for leaders who bring their whole self to their role, she leads within and outside of her organisation. I recommend her as an educational leader, a coach, a mentor and a public speaker.

Nadine is a leader of great skill and integrity. Her passion and commitment to every young person is quite remarkable. She connects and motivates both students in staff by appealing to their very best nature and bringing that out of themselves. I have enormous admiration and respect for Nadine and always leave every interaction with her feeling inspired.