Samira Vance

I am a dynamic and engaging professional who brings a rich tapestry of experiences and expertise to my work. With a diverse professional and educational background as a Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, a graduate of Law and Human Rights, an English as an Additional Language leader, Head of Pastoral Care as well as a teacher with experience educating students from Early Years through to Key Stage Three, I have a deep understanding of educational and, inclusive and equitable practices from a variety of lenses. I have worked in state-maintained schools in England and international schools in Thailand. My varied and specialised experience means my insights are both practical and impactful.
 
My personal story adds depth to my professional experience. As a first generation migrant, third-culture kid, from an inter-racial, multi-faith family, I have navigated the complexities of identity from a young age. Whilst I spent some of my early life socio-economically privileged and attending international schools in East Africa, I spent the rest growing up in a low-income, single-parent family and attended state-maintained schools in England. Migrating again as an adult, working in multicultural settings, starting a family and navigating pregnancy and motherhood across cultures adds personal, lived experience to my knowledge of interculturalism and perspectives of maternity, race and racism in national and international contexts. Navigating neurodivergence amongst other minoritised elements of my identity further enriches and informs my perspectives of equitable education and intersectionality. I bring fresh insights and amplify the perspectives of my own and others' minoritised identities.
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My approach is grounded in both my professional expertise and lived experiences. My DEI work has been recognised for its intellectual rigour, humanity, integrity and authenticity.