Meet Fatima Bailey

We were lucky to catch up with Fatima Bailey recently and have shared our conversation below.

Fatima , thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

Being the only one in the room who looks like me has taught me to be strategic, patient, prepared, and confident. As a woman of color, I’ve had to create an ecosystem that safeguards, motivates, and propels me towards my goals.

I’ve learned to leverage my life experiences, unique perspectives and insights to drive success. I’ve had to work hard to get to where I am, and that’s given me a strong work ethic and resilience.

I seek out mentors and allies who support and amplify my voice. They are an integral part of my ecosystem. Ultimately, I’ve come to realize that my differences are a strength, not a weakness, and that my perspective can bring innovative solutions to the table. In some instances I’ve not brought things to the table…I was the table. I centered others. I became the foundation for other people’s greatness, achievements and accomplishments.

I define resilience as the ability to adapt, learn, and grow from every experience. I’ve had the opportunity to develop and strengthen over time.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

As the Department Chair of Teacher Education and Teacher Leadership, I’m passionate about empowering educators and future leaders to make a lasting impact. To me, leadership is about embodying behaviors, character, and mindsets that prioritize equity, humanity, and values.

I believe that leadership best happens through building strong trust-filled relationships, fostering resilience, and developing capacities. I’m an opponent of ego-centric leadership and a proponent of human-centric leadership which I think is essential for creating positive and sustainable change.

In my role, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of effective leadership and its impact on individuals, teams, communities and organizations. As an academic leader, I’m committed to nurturing the next generation of educators, leaders and visionaries like myself who will re-shape and re-define the landscape of education.

I’m excited to share that I’m currently working on several projects that I’m eager to bring to life in 2026. These initiatives aim to further develop leadership capacities, promote equity-centered practices, and support educators in creating inclusive and empowering learning environments. Stay tuned for more updates, and I look forward to collaborating with like-minded individuals who share my passion for leadership, education, and positive change.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

I don’t really look back, I reflect on my past, present, and future with purpose because I believe that every experience, whether triumphs or setbacks, has shaped me into the person I am today. I believe you can take a setback and turn it into a comeback. It depends on how you view challenges and opportunities.

When I think about the qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge that have been most impactful in my journey, three key areas come to mind.

Firstly, building and maintaining strong fruitful relationships has been instrumental. I’ve learned the importance of taking the time to understand others, empathize with their perspectives, and foster meaningful connections. These relationships have not only provided support but also opened doors to new opportunities and growth.

Secondly, embracing lifelong learning, upscaling and upskilling have been crucial. I’ve made it a point to stay curious, seek out new knowledge, and be open to growth. To consider and uncover bold ways forward. This mindset has allowed me to adapt to changing environments and stay ahead in my field.

Lastly, cultivating well-being, self-care resilience has been vital. Developing emotional intelligence, coping mechanisms, and a growth mindset has enabled me to navigate challenges and setbacks with confidence. Self-determined willingness. Staying the course have all rescued me from pitfalls and downward spirals.

My advice for up and coming leaders? Keep your circle small….your eyes must stay on the prize. Pivot when required. Know that you don’t know everything. Grit, tenacity and perseverance are required in most cases—so saddle up and be ready for the ride! For those early in their journey, I’d advise them to be authentic and intentional about their growth. Seek out mentors who inspire and support you, but who will also challenge you. Don’t be afraid to speak up and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. Be positive. Be confident. Be patient. Be generous. Be kind with your words, your acts and your smiles..

Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?

My biggest area of growth and improvement in the past year was developing more agency and identity. It was replacing old ideologies and beliefs I held with more realistic and contemporary ones. It was also repurposing and revisiting my short-term and long-term goals. Honestly speaking I have my parents and my life experience to thank for that. I can’t thank them enough.

Now I pursue opportunities that challenge me and help me improve, grow, or develop. Whether through formal or informal learning, or self-directed learning, I must grow and stretch my thinking. Self-improvement is the first step towards achieving any other kind of improvement.

Whether it’s institutional or organizational improvement, leaders must start with the person in the mirror. Also when faced with obstacles, try to reframe them as opportunities for growth and learning. By focusing on these areas, I believe you’ll be well-equipped to navigate your journey and achieve your goals.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://scholar.google.ae/citations?user=msWTPrgAAAAJ&hl=en
• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/fatima-bailey-ed-d-93b496145
• Other: Email:[email protected]

Image Credits

Sharjah Education Academy
American University of Sharjah