by Juma Nyamori
Are you a Principal, Aspiring School Leader, Governor, Owner, Investor, or other professional with an interest in international education?
If your answer is “Yes,” then the #LYIS25 – ‘Leadership for Opportunity’ inaugural conference on international education leadership in Foshan, China, from 28th to 30th March 2025, is an opportunity you cannot afford to miss.
#LYIS25 is more than just a conference – it is a transformative gathering designed to inspire, challenge, and equip international educators and stakeholders with the tools they need to reimagine education. This event brings together seasoned educational leaders, innovators, and thinkers from across the globe to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and engage in conversations about the most effective practices for 21st-century learning in international schools across diverse contexts.
Why #LYIS25 Matters
In an era where education is rapidly evolving, international schools must remain at the forefront of innovation and adaptability. #LYIS25 offers a unique platform to critically examine current practices, explore new ideas, and engage with peers who share a passion for educational excellence. Whether you are leading a well-established international school, working in a fast-growing one, or just beginning your journey into international education leadership, this conference is designed to meet your needs.
The conference objectives reflect LYIS’s commitment to creating a rich global leadership community, anchored in collaboration, innovation, and integrity. These objectives include:
- Building a Global Educational Leadership Community
- Bringing together leaders across curricula and settings to foster a sense of shared purpose and collaboration.
- Sharing the LYIS Leadership Framework
- Introducing a comprehensive leadership framework tailored to the needs of international education.
- Deepening Understanding of International Education Contexts
- Exploring the unique challenges and opportunities that define international education and equipping leaders to make impactful contributions.
- Innovating Sustainable Leadership Practices
- Encouraging leaders to embrace sustainable practices underpinned by integrity and opportunity, ensuring long-term success in their schools.
Introducing the LYIS-Q: A Groundbreaking Principal Qualification
One of the most exciting highlights of #LYIS25 is the introduction of the LYIS Principal Qualification (LYIS-Q). This research-informed programme has been carefully designed to address the specific needs of international school leaders.
As someone deeply passionate about Change Management, I am particularly enthusiastic about the way the LYIS-Q addresses this critical aspect of leadership. Managing change effectively – at the right time and in the right way – is essential for the success of any international school. The qualification offers practical insights and strategies for navigating change within the unique cycles of international school operations.
For leaders who are deeply invested in international accreditation and continuous improvement, this qualification is a game-changer. It provides a structured approach to ensuring schools remain aligned with global standards while embracing the dynamic challenges of the international education landscape. I encourage my fellow accreditation enthusiasts to take a closer look at the LYIS-Q during the conference.
The diversity of experiences and perspectives that #LYIS25 brings together is unparalleled. From the leadership practices of well-established schools to the innovative approaches of emerging institutions, the conference offers a wealth of knowledge that is both practical and inspiring.
I am particularly excited to connect with fellow presenters who bring a rich variety of experiences from different international education contexts. I am looking forward to sharing platforms with those seasoned leaders listed at the end of this article who will be anchoring sessions at #LYIS25. Each session is designed to provoke thought, spark dialogue, and provide actionable takeaways that will empower leaders to drive meaningful change in their schools.
Additionally, #LYIS25 is committed to levelling up international education leadership by fostering a culture of learning, collaboration, and excellence. The conference is not just about sharing ideas – it’s about building a lasting community of leaders who are committed to raising the standards of international education worldwide.
Foshan, with its vibrant culture and forward-thinking spirit, is the perfect backdrop for this inaugural conference. The city itself symbolizes innovation and resilience, qualities that are essential for leaders in international education.
#LYIS25 is a unique opportunity to network with like-minded professionals, gain valuable insights, and contribute to the future of international education. Whether you are a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, this conference promises to inspire, challenge, and equip you for the road ahead.
As someone who has spent over two decades in international education leadership, I can confidently say that this conference represents a pivotal moment for our community. It is a chance to come together, learn from one another, and collectively shape the future of international education. I am honoured to be participating in #LYIS25 in Foshan, China, and I look forward to connecting with all of you – principals, aspiring leaders, investors, HR professionals, and educators. Together, we can build a stronger, more innovative, and more inclusive future for international education.
Mark your calendars for 28th to 30th March 2025, and join us on this exciting journey. I look forward to seeing you there!
Let’s reimagine international education together at #LYIS25.
Juma Nyamori is the Head Teacher, Rusinga Schools, Nairobi;
Founding Chair of Board, LYIS
To attend #LYIS25, click here