We were lucky to catch up with Dr. Candice Strachan recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Dr. Candice, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Finding my purpose as an educational leader was a journey rooted in my passion for making a positive impact on students’ lives. It began with my own experiences in the classroom where I saw firsthand the challenges and inequities that many students face. This motivated me to pursue further education and training in Urban Educational Leadership, where I gained insights into systemic issues and innovative solutions. Through collaboration with colleagues, mentorship, and continuous learning, I developed a vision for creating inclusive and effective educational environments. My purpose was solidified by the success stories of students whose lives were transformed through the initiatives I led, reaffirming my commitment to making education accessible and equitable for all.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As an educational leader, my work revolves around transforming educational environments to better serve students, teachers, and communities. I focus on developing innovative strategies to address systemic challenges and ensuring equitable access to quality education for all. The most exciting aspect of my role is witnessing the tangible impact of my initiatives—seeing students thrive, teachers feeling supported, and communities becoming more engaged in the educational process.
In my most recent publication, “Voices of Bahamian Students: Using Student Voice to Leverage School Reform in the Bahamas,” I conducted a qualitative, phenomenological study to explore high school students’ lived experience as it relates to student voice in the Bahamian public education system. Many students remain passive in their education, highlighting the need for a concerted effort to empower student involvement in decision-making, influence outcomes, and foster active participation within schools and the broader education system. It is essential for the education system to integrate student voice into the leadership and management of public schools in the Bahamas. A change is desperately needed to initiate the notion of student voice in the Bahamas; the capacity of students must be bolstered to ensure their contribution to decision-making processes, their influence on outcomes with their views, concerns, and ideas, and active participation in their schools and the education system. I am dedicated to driving this change by advocating for policies and practices that prioritize student input. Through a combination of collective efforts, I strive to ensure that the voices of Bahamian students are not only heard but also instrumental in shaping the future of education in the Bahamas.
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?
Three qualities that were most impactful in my journey as an educational leader are empathy, strategic thinking, and effective communication. Empathy allows me to understand the diverse needs of students and educators which fosters an environment of trust and support. Strategic thinking enables me to identify root causes of educational issues and develop long-term solutions rather than quick fixes. Lastly, effective communication is crucial for conveying my vision, rallying support, and facilitating collaboration among stakeholders, ensuring that everyone is aligned towards common goals.
For those early in their journey, developing these qualities is essential. To cultivate empathy, actively listen to others’ experiences and perspectives, and engage in reflective practices to deepen your understanding. Equally important, enhancing strategic thinking requires a commitment to continuous learning; keep yourself informed about trends, policies, research, and practice critical analysis of complex problems. In addition, improving communication skills involves both practice and feedback; seek opportunities to present ideas, lead discussions, and solicit constructive criticism. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who can offer guidance and support, and always be open to learning and growth.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
God has been the most helpful in overcoming challenges and developing the essential skills, qualities, and knowledge needed for my success. Through faith and prayer, I found the strength and guidance to navigate difficult times and make important decisions. Trusting in God’s plan provided me with a sense of purpose and direction, even when the path was uncertain. My spiritual journey has been a source of constant support, reminding me to stay humble, patient, and compassionate. By leaning on God’s wisdom and grace, I have been able to grow both personally and professionally, becoming a more effective and empathetic educational leader.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
