Women educators share stories of leadership, resilience and connection at inaugural She Leads event

More than 75 women educators from across the Glenfield Principals Network have come together to celebrate leadership, resilience and professional growth at the inaugural She Leads: Stories of Success and Strength event, creating a new platform to support women in educational leadership across New South Wales.

Held in Sydney, the networking event brought together principals, deputy principals, assistant principals and aspiring leaders to share their leadership journeys, reflect on the challenges they have overcome and strengthen professional connections.

The initiative is the first of its kind within the Glenfield Principals Network and is expected to become part of the NSW Department of Education's Women's Network, providing a model for similar events across the state.

Throughout the event, women leaders reflected on the varied pathways that had led them into education leadership, highlighting the importance of mentorship, collaboration and strong professional relationships.

Glenfield Park School Principal Michelle Gomes shared what continues to inspire her as a leader.

"The most important question, why stay? I stay because of my team... and the joy I get from knowing that I could help one student is all I need to stay inspired."

Ms Gomes said the support she had received throughout her career had been instrumental in shaping her leadership.

"I've been told that I'm a transformational leader… I couldn't do that without the backing and the teamwork and the support and the guidance I've received over the years."

Looking ahead, she said maintaining optimism and a strong sense of community would continue to guide her approach.

"I'm always doing something to support my students, staff, and community, which I think is important.

"I am certain that there will always be dancing, and joy and a real sense of community in my school."

Executive Director, Public Schools, Metropolitan North Directorate and Executive Co-Sponsor of the NSW

Department of Education's Women's Network, Cathy Brennan, encouraged attendees to back themselves when leadership opportunities arise.

"Too often, women hold back, thinking, 'I don't know enough yet'."

She said professional networks such as She Leads could provide the encouragement and confidence needed to take the next step.

"Be brave in making decisions that will create opportunities to expand your influence; networks such as this Women's Network provide the support you need to take those steps."

Reflecting on her own career, Ms Brennan said her greatest motivation had always been making a positive difference in students' lives.

"What has always motivated me... has been the opportunity to make the greatest difference for every single student."

She also shared a quote from Professor Hank Levin that has remained with her throughout her career.

"Those children that parents send to us, are the only ones they have."

Ms Brennan said the attendance at the inaugural event demonstrated the value educators place on opportunities to connect, learn and support one another.

"What an incredible testament to the need in supporting our women, that we have 75 women and allies committing time to come together."

She congratulated Administration Officer Felicity Murphy and Assistant Principal Rani Fairbairn for their vision in establishing the network, with support from Director Educational Leadership Dace Elletson.

The event is expected to provide a model that can be shared through the NSW Department of Education's Women's Network, creating further opportunities for women educators to build professional relationships, develop leadership capability and support one another throughout their careers.

As schools continue to focus on leadership development and workforce sustainability, initiatives such as She Leads highlight the important role that professional networks and shared experiences can play in fostering confident and connected leaders.