In this episode of the Lead Her Higher podcast, host Emily MacLean had the privilege of sitting down with Ceci Gomez-Galvez, Elementary EAL Coordinator at Saigon South International School, to explore what leadership looks like when it is rooted in language, identity, advocacy, and belonging.

Ceci’s leadership journey reminds us that leadership is not always tied to a title; it’s tied to impact. As a multilingual educator, Ceci speaks powerfully about moving from working directly with students to leading through teachers, expanding her reach while staying deeply grounded in empathy and purpose. Ceci Gomez-Galvez shares her journey as an EAL coordinator, emphasizing the importance of empathy, advocacy, and redefining success in education. She discusses the challenges of navigating multilingual spaces, the need for equitable assessment practices, and the significance of coaching teachers. Ceci also shares openly about navigating leadership as a woman of colour in international education, the pressure to over-professionalize to be heard, and the liberating moment of choosing to lead as her truest self, unapologetically.

Key Takeaways:

• Empathy in leadership translates to action for students.
• Joyful teachers create joyful learning environments.
• Advocacy should be a daily practice in education.
• Success is measured by the impact on others, not positions.
• Language acquisition is not linear but cyclical.
• Discomfort in learning can lead to growth.
• Coaching should meet teachers where they are.
• Lead equity work with wisdom, patience, and humanity.
• Be “wise rather than right” when navigating resistance.

About Ceci

Ceci is a dedicated collaborator, coach, and advocate committed to empowering educators to create equitable and inclusive learning opportunities for multilingual learners. Born and raised in Guatemala City, Ceci grew up in a bilingual household where languages were equally cherished, a value deeply instilled by her family. Drawing inspiration from her upbringing and extensive experience in international schools, Ceci now leads educators in designing programs that prioritize culturally responsive teaching and ensure equitable access for all learners. Passionate about fostering meaningful change in education, Ceci combines expertise with empathy to champion practices that celebrate linguistic and cultural diversity. Connect with Ceci through her professional portfolio at cecigomezgalvez.com.

Listen to Ceci's journey and be inspired to Lead Her Higher.

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Keywords: leadership, multilingual education, advocacy, identity, belonging, equity, language acquisition, women in leadership, empathy, success