Since arriving in Scotland in 2018, I knew that I wanted to lead. What I didn’t know was how long and challenging that journey would be.
Between then and now, I sat through 15-20 interviews without success. Each rejection stung. Each time, I had to pick myself up, reflect honestly on the feedback, no matter how hard it was to hear, and try again. I learned to truly listen to advice, even when it challenged my assumptions about myself and my readiness. I invested in my development, completing an MSc in Leadership, pursued leadership roles within school, and constantly worked to address the gaps identified in those difficult post-interview conversations.
The temptation to give up was real. There were moments when I questioned whether this goal was achievable, whether I had what it takes. But I am fortunate to have a supportive wife who believed in me even when I doubted myself, and colleagues who encouraged me to keep going. Their support, combined with my own determination, helped me to keep believing I could get there. I learned that getting onto the leadership ladder isn’t just about having a vision. More than that, it’s about developing the resilience to persist when doors keep closing, the humility to accept hard truths about where you need to improve, and the courage to keep putting yourself forward despite repeated disappointment.
Eight years of sustained effort, learning from failure, and refusing to abandon the goal I set for myself have brought me to this moment. The opportunity to serve as Principal Teacher represents not just a new role, but proof that perseverance and willingness to grow can eventually lead you where you want to be.
This journey has shaped the leader I hope to become, one who understands struggle, values honest feedback, and knows that success often comes not to those who never fail, but to those who refuse to stop trying.
I am humbled and grateful for this opportunity, and excited to start.