In our first repeat guest on the show, Dr. Derrick Gay discusses intercultural competency—the knowledge, skills, and capacity to communicate and interact across difference with empathy and respect—as a core professional practice in international education to deepen belonging, He examines common misconceptions that reduce culture to surface-level traits, and offers a more nuanced framework for understanding how values, norms, and power operate beneath the surface, including through the cultural iceberg metaphor. The conversation also explores how schools can build staff capacity across age groups and roles, strengthen collaboration among local and international colleagues, and design structures (such as effective committees, shared language, and clear norms) that support adaptive change while sustaining dignity and respect across the community.

Takeaways

• Belonging is a fundamental human need that is scientifically grounded.

• Dignity and respect should be the core values in educational organizations.

• Intercultural competency is not just about exposure but requires understanding and adaptability.

• Effective belonging committees should include wide range of different backgrounds, voices and perspectives..

• The cultural iceberg metaphor helps in understanding deeper cultural norms and values.

• Empathy should be scaffolded in educational conversations to promote understanding.

• Professional learning should involve both local and foreign staff to enhance belonging.

• Children are motivated to be kind and empathic; we should tap into that.

• It's essential to create spaces for courageous conversations about cultural clashes.

• The work of belonging is ongoing and requires commitment from all stakeholders.

Sound bites

• "You're wired to have this sense of belonging."
• "Exposure is not the same as competency."
• "My passion and my vocation are the same."

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Belonging

05:01 Navigating Change and Dignity in Education

09:45 Adapting Approaches for Different Age Groups

16:09 Intercultural Competency and Its Misconceptions

22:00 Building Effective Belonging Committees

26:00 Understanding the Cultural Iceberg

30:02 Bridging Gaps Between Local and Foreign Staff

35:08 Looking Ahead: Future of Belonging in Education

Keywords

belonging, education, intercultural competency, dignity, change management, international schools, community, belonging committees, cultural iceberg, professional learning

Summary

Our Blue Skies Leadership conversation emphasizes the urgent need for education to adapt to the pressing global challenges faced by the next generation. This episode highlights the Global Impact Diploma and the importance of equipping young people with not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills and a problem-solving mindset to address issues like climate change, inequality, and economic uncertainty.

How to Connect

https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-impact-diploma/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-topf-0a062464/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-bonnici-ba894b86/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mendesd/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-kerr-b0a82520/

Takeaways

• Young people must act now, not just after school.

• Education needs to adapt to current global challenges.

• Addressing climate change with urgency is critical.

• Rising inequality demands immediate attention.

• Wars and conflicts are shaping the educational landscape.

• A problem-solving mindset is essential for youth.

• The next generation should feel a sense of agency.

• Leadership skills are crucial for young people today.

• Global economic uncertainty requires innovative solutions.

• Education should empower youth to lead change.

Sound bites

• "The world feels like it's at a point where young people can't just wait."
• "Education has to follow this shift because there's too much urgency."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Global Impact Diploma

00:32 Getting Involved with the Global Impact Diploma

Summary

This episode explores the vital role of international schools in fostering community engagement, service learning, and empathy among students. Dr. Dan Long discusses the importance of understanding cultural complexities, building meaningful partnerships, and prioritizing student wellness. This episode emphasizes a holistic approach to education, focusing on the development of well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to their communities.

Takeaways

• We are guests in this country, and understanding our role is crucial.

• Community engagement is a two-way street that benefits both sides.

• Education should focus on preparing students to be effective and impactful.

• Service learning fosters empathy and heart change in students.

• Building meaningful partnerships with local organizations is essential.

• Cultural complexities present both challenges and opportunities in education.

• Prioritizing student wellness is key to their success.

• A holistic view of education includes emotional and social development.

• Programs must be supported by people who genuinely care about students.

• • Future initiatives should focus on community-building events and service opportunities.

  Chapters

  00:00 Understanding Our Role as Guests

  02:43 The Importance of Community Engagement

  05:33 Service and Action: Fostering Empathy

  08:19 Building Meaningful Partnerships

  11:16 Navigating Cultural Complexities

  16:04 Prioritizing Student Wellness

  19:18 Holistic Success in Education

  22:07 Looking Ahead: Future Initiatives

  Important Links

  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mendesd/ (LinkedIn Daniel Mendes)

  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-kerr-b0a82520/overlay/photo/ (LinkedIn Dan Kerr)

  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-long-8047b429/ (LinkedIn Dan Long)

  
  

  
  

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