In the realm of education, impactful leadership plays a crucial role in shaping young minds and fostering progressive learning environments. Mrs Poppy Roy stands as a beacon of inspiration, with an illustrious career. Her dedication to academic excellence, innovative teaching methodologies, and empowerment of educators and students alike has earned her numerous accolades. From receiving prestigious state awards for academic achievements to being honoured with the Sushma Swaraj Women Icon Award, she has continually championed the cause of education and leadership.
You have an illustrious career in education spanning over 18 years. What inspired you to pursue a career in teaching and educational leadership?
Teaching has always felt like a calling to me, inspired by the incredible educators who shaped my own life. I pursued this path to make a meaningful impact, not just in classrooms but across entire systems through leadership. Watching students grow and thrive fuels my passion for creating environments where both learners and educators can reach their full potential.
Your leadership has been recognised with numerous prestigious awards. Which achievement holds the most personal significance for you, and why?
The achievement that holds the most personal significance for me is receiving an award from the State Government for producing a State Rank. However, the most fulfilling moment was when my students excelled in a major competition under my guidance. It wasn’t about the trophy but about witnessing their growth, confidence, and belief in their abilities. That moment reminded me why I chose this path—to empower others to realise their potential. Each award is special, but those moments of shared success with my students resonate the most deeply with me.
The Sushma Swaraj Women Icon Award highlights your role in empowering women. Can you share some initiatives or strategies you have implemented to support women in education and society?
The Sushma Swaraj Women Icon Award is a testament to my commitment to empowering wome
- I have initiated mentorship programmes for female educators, leadership workshops, and scholarships for underprivileged girls, ensuring they have the resources and confidence to succeed. I also focus on creating safe spaces in education where women can voice their aspirations and take charge of their growth. These initiatives aim to foster independence and build a culture of equality, both in education and society.
- You have participated in global conferences like the INDO-FINNISH Conference. How has engaging with international educators influenced your perspective and approach towards education?
Engaging with international educators at events like the INDO-FINNISH Conference has profoundly shaped my perspective. Sharing ideas with global peers helped me see education as a universal bridge, uniting diverse cultures and approaches. I have learned to integrate holistic and innovative practices from around the world into our teaching methods, ensuring students are equipped for a globalised future. These experiences remind me that collaboration across borders strengthens education for all.
The Guinness World Records award for Best Coordination Management is remarkable. Could you elaborate on the project or initiative that earned you this recognition?
The Guinness World Records award was achieved for leading an event that involved thousands of participants, showcasing seamless coordination and teamwork. Organising this large-scale initiative required careful planning, clear communication, and inspiring everyone to work towards a shared vision. It wasn’t just about the record but about teaching the value of collective effort and perseverance, which left a lasting impact on everyone involved. (By the handprints of the students and parents, we created a large image of Thiruvalluvar.)
What innovative teaching practices have you introduced at Aksharam International School, and how have they impacted students and educators?
At Aksharam International School, I have introduced experiential learning, project-based activities, and digital classrooms to transform traditional teaching methods. Programmes like STEAM projects and interactive sessions bridge theoretical concepts with real-world applications, making learning more dynamic. These innovations have not only boosted student engagement but also inspired teachers to embrace creativity and adaptability, enriching the overall learning experience.
Education today requires a blend of academic rigour and life skills. How do you ensure that students under your leadership are equipped with both?
To ensure students excel academically and in life, we have integrated rigorous curricula with life skills training, including workshops on emotional intelligence, financial literacy, and public speaking. Extracurricular activities and community service projects are equally emphasised, helping students develop empathy and teamwork. This blend prepares them to face real-world challenges with confidence and competence.
What qualities do you believe are essential for a successful educational leader?
A successful educational leader needs empathy to connect, vision to inspire, and adaptability to navigate challenges. I also believe in leading by example and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. Recognising the unique strengths of each individual in my team helps build a supportive environment, allowing everyone to work towards shared goals with enthusiasm.
Balancing administrative responsibilities with mentoring and inspiring educators can be challenging. How do you manage to excel in both aspects of your role?
Balancing administrative responsibilities with mentoring requires clear priorities and a focus on people. I believe in empowering my team through trust and delegation, allowing me to invest time in mentoring educators and addressing their concerns. Building strong relationships and maintaining open communication has helped me excel in both roles while ensuring the school runs smoothly.
What advice would you give to aspiring educators and women leaders who wish to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields?
To aspiring educators and women leaders, always believe in your ability to create change. Seek opportunities to grow, embrace challenges as stepping stones, and stay resilient in the face of obstacles. Surround yourself with supportive communities, and remember that every success you achieve not only uplifts you but also inspires countless others to follow in your footsteps.
