Leadership Spotlight: Kevin Onabiyi
ISS Leadership Search was proud to lead the Director search for American International School Conakry (AISC) in Conakry, Guinea. Congratulations to Kevin Onabiyi for accepting the position, beginning July 2024! Kevin is currently the Head of Secondary at Ecole Mondiale World School in Mumbai, India.
Kevin’s previous senior leadership roles have also taken him to Atlanta International School (Head of Middle School and later Head of Secondary) in the USA, and Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School (Assistant Head Teacher in charge of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) in London, UK.
Kevin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Microbiology from the University of Surrey and completed his internship at the University of Turku. He also obtained a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from Goldsmiths College, London, and a Master’s in Managing School Improvement from London Metropolitan University.
In this feature, learn about Kevin’s passion for international education, his commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments, and how he looks forward to working alongside the AISC community to make dreams a reality.
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
I have always loved imparting knowledge to others. Growing up, I used to teach the neighborhood kids what I learnt from school. I never really thought of going into teaching because it just did not feel like a job. During my internship in Finland, one of my friends taught a dance class and when she went away she persuaded me to cover for her. I really enjoyed it. After my degree I decided to obtain my teaching certificate.
One of my passions is traveling, so when I realized that I could work abroad I decided to give it a try. I also realized that one of the best ways to learn about other cultures is by living in a country. I have also found that International Schools are more globally minded, students are able to think critically and teachers have more autonomy to try things out.
Kevin in Bali on a school trip
Congratulations on your new position at American International School Conakry! What excites you about being in this new role and school? What are your hopes?
One of the best things about the interview process was getting to meet all stakeholders and members of the AISC community. I felt their warmth. Knowing that I am going to be working with members of this amazing community every day is actually what excites me.
As I listened to the different stakeholders, I got to hear their dreams of what they wanted for AISC. My hope is to make these dreams become realities by working hard every day with all stakeholders. I am particularly eager to work with the primary students who told me that they would really want a seat at the leadership table. I also hope that I and other staff make sure our mission of “developing intellectually audacious, socially responsible citizens of the world” is made a reality on a daily basis.
Guinea-Conakry
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can your new community expect?
At the center of my education philosophy, is the belief that the entire school community is responsible for both teaching and learning. Hence, cultivating an environment where students enjoy learning and eliminating barriers that hinder children from participating fully in the learning process.
I believe a happy child is in the best position to learn. Hence, all stakeholders involved in a child’s education should feel included and nurtured in order to help each child reach their potential.
I strongly believe that spending quality time with people builds a relationship of trust. The AISC community can expect an open door policy from me and being highly visible in the community, collaborating with different stakeholders, identifying systemic patterns and intervening early and successfully to navigate challenges, while working to keep communities intact, and supporting parents in aligning themselves to the mission, vision and philosophy set by the school.
What is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share?
I have been to over 60 countries. On one of those trips, I slept on the Great Wall of China for the night.
Finally, what was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
It felt very bespoke. Dr. Nadine spent time to know me well before suggesting the school that I applied to. She prepared me well for the interviews and made sure the school knew about me.
Our thanks to Kevin for sharing these insights! We look forward to seeing the positive impact his open, supportive, and community-oriented leadership will bring to AISC. You can follow Kevin’s journey on Linkedin.
If you’re interested in pursuing a school leadership position, please check out our current leadership searches or get in touch with the ISS Leadership Search Team.