What are your favourite things about working for ACAP and Navitas?
My favourite thing is the sense of community and the unwavering support I get from my team. No matter the challenge, I can be absolutely sure my colleagues and managers will support me and be a sympathetic ear when I need to express concern or difficulty.
Having an amazing team around you and colleagues that will always back you makes achieving goals so much easier, and we absolutely have that here at ACAP.
Which of the Navitas values resonates with you most and why?
“We are genuine in the way we behave and deliver”
In my teaching work, I would say my style is rather relaxed and honest. My students know from day one that I will be completely genuine in my approach and that I expect the same from them. If I make a mistake, I own up to it. If I am unsure how to answer a question, I tell them. My students know that I genuinely care about their wellbeing and success and will anything I can to make sure their learning experience is a positive one. We might not always achieve our goals and things don’t always go exactly to plan, but we can always act genuinely towards one another and towards our work.
What would you say has been your greatest achievement – either professionally or personally?
Professionally, I was very proud of achieving my dream of securing an international post-doctoral position straight out of my PhD. It was terrifying to pack up my life and move to the other side of the world, but it was such a rewarding experience.
Personally, is it terribly corny if I say my son? I’ll say it anyway! I am so proud of the kind and adventurous little guy I am raising, and he really will stand to be my greatest achievement when I look back on my life one day, I’m sure.
What are some of the things you consider important for the wellbeing of teachers?
In a single word - support. Having a team that supports you, having resources that support your ability to do a good job, and having the support of an employer that has values with which you can align yourself. Teaching is very rewarding but also incredibly hard and taxing. It is important to step back every so often, and remind yourself that you cannot possibly ‘do it all’, and to draw on the support of your colleagues when you are feeling overwhelmed.
Who inspires you, personally?
My younger sister who has worked so hard, and continues to work so hard, to climb the ladder professionally in a tough industry, while remaining passionate about supporting those less fortunate than her. Also, my nephew Clayton; the happiest child I have ever met, despite facing constant health battles since birth. And, my mum - who lives her life to the fullest every day and never gives a thought to other people’s judgements. I am inspired by her passion for life and I strive to have her carefree, yet compassionate and caring attitude that she embodies every day.