Aruna Gilbert, Chief Program and Policy Officer at the Early Learning Coalition, shares her journey from economics and global environmental work to a deep lifelong commitment to early childhood education. She discusses the transformative power of early learning, the critical role of early educators—often underappreciated women—and innovative approaches using data-driven tools to support children’s development, educators, and families. Aruna emphasizes relationships as the foundation of learning and shares her hope for equalizing educational opportunities for all young children.