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In this episode, we sit down with Nicola Nelson, Head of Primary at Garden International School, Kuala Lumpur, for an honest and inspiring conversation about what it means to lead authentically.

Nicola opens up about identifying as an introverted leader — someone who listens carefully, processes deeply, and is intentional about the space she occupies in meetings and conversations. Rather than viewing introversion as a limitation, she has built a leadership style around it: distributing leadership across her team in a sustainable way, and carving out the quiet time she needs to recharge, reflect, and show up fully for others.

She speaks candidly about navigating imposter syndrome, sharing the self-talk strategies she uses to push through moments of self-doubt, and reflecting on how grit and determination have shaped the leader she is today. Modelling healthy, sustainable leadership isn't just a personal priority for Nicola — it's something she believes all leaders have a responsibility to demonstrate.

Nicola is also deeply committed to supporting other women in education, serving as a network leader for WomenEd Malaysia and as an active member of the Women in International Schools Empowerment community — driven by a desire to offer others the mentoring and coaching she didn't always have access to early in her own career.

She leaves us with three powerful pieces of advice:

• Don't wait until you feel 100% ready — take the leap and grow into the role
• Lead through relationships, with confidence, care, and courage
• Look after yourself, so you can lead in a healthy and sustainable way for the long term