Today we’d like to introduce you to Nandi Edouard.
Hi Nandi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the powerful impact that individuals can have on each other. My parents and older brother instilled in me a sense of purpose and drive from a young age. Their unwavering support and encouragement enabled me to take risks and pursue my passions fearlessly.
My time at Spelman College further reinforced this notion, as I was surrounded by a community of like-minded individuals who believed in the power of education and social justice. It was here that I discovered my own potential as a leader and became inspired to make a difference in the lives of children.
As an educator, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of education. It is my firm belief that every child has the potential to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. As a leader, I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where students can thrive and teachers can excel. I am dedicated to providing my team with the support and resources they need to be successful, and to ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education.
Ultimately, my journey has been one of growth and self-discovery. I have learned that leadership is about more than just being in charge – it’s about inspiring and empowering others to be their best selves. It’s about being passionate, dedicated, and committed to creating a better world for our children. And it’s about recognizing that we all have the power to make a difference, one child at a time.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I say this consistently, but one of my proudest accomplishments of my life was earning my college degree, not only because it improved the trajectory of my life but also because it was the hardest thing I had to work for up until this point. By the time I reached college, I thought I knew what I wanted to be, do and accomplish. However, enrolling at Spelman College was a whole new experience, something my high school experience did not prepare me for. College was a challenging and often overwhelming experience for me. From the pressures of academic success to the financial burden of tuition, being away from home and navigating new social circles, there were many obstacles that made my college journey a struggle. After college, I pursued a career in teaching and leadership, which was not an easy path. It can be difficult to navigate the various needs and demands of students, parents, and staff, but I remain committed.
Founding a school is an entrepreneurial journey and it is not an easy path. As I embark on my journey with a proposed charter school, The Simple Vue Academy, I know that there will be obstacles and challenges to overcome.
Building a business and creating a legacy takes time, effort, and perseverance. It’s not something that happens overnight. And in order to help our students develop an entrepreneurial spirit and a can-do attitude, we need to be prepared to guide and support them through the ups and downs of the process. Therefore, creating a curriculum and environment that will be both innovative and effective is paramount to our success.
I want to ensure that our students received a STREAM-based education, which will provide them with the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Creating such a curriculum requires a lot of research and collaboration with experts in the field. As a black woman in America, funding opportunities are not as readily available to me as they would be to someone from a different background. Studies have shown that Black women are severely underrepresented in venture capital and angel investment circles, and are less likely to receive loans or other forms of financing.
Despite these challenges, I remain determined to found The Simple Vue Academy. I know that our mission of creating a sustainable pathway to entrepreneurship is too important to give up on. I am committed to overcoming any obstacles that may come our way, and I am excited to build a school that will empower our students to achieve their dreams. Obstacles and struggles are part of life, but they have shaped me into the leader I am today.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Simple Vue Academy is a unique educational institution that provides students in grades 6-12 with a STREAM-based education (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Math) to prepare them for a sustainable pathway to entrepreneurship. At The Simple Vue Academy, we understand that entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business, but it’s a way of thinking and approaching challenges that can be applied to any aspect of life. Our mission is to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to advocate for themselves and their communities, work in collaboration, and tackle obstacles through project and place-based learning. We also provide guidance on business and financial management, as well as a village of support to ensure our students’ success. At The Simple Vue Academy, we believe in the power of Ubuntu, meaning “I am because we are.” Therefore, we strive to create a community that is stronger together, and we empower ourselves and each other to overcome adversity and cultivate an entrepreneurial spirit.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Metro Atlanta is a vibrant and diverse region with a rich history and culture. It is home to many renowned institutions, including universities, museums, and sports teams, and is known for its thriving business community, delicious food, and lively arts and music scene. Specifically in South Cobb, one of the things I appreciate about the area is its sense of community. South Cobb is known for having a close-knit community where neighbors look out for each other, and there are many community events and gatherings throughout the year. The area has a rich cultural mix, and this is reflected in the range of local businesses, restaurants, and community events. People appreciate the chance to explore different cultures and try new things in South Cobb. Finally, I love the natural beauty of the area. South Cobb is home to several parks and green spaces, including the Silver Comet Trail and the Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre, which offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor concerts.
One of the things I like least about our city is the heavy traffic congestion, long commute times, and limited public transportation options.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thesimplevueacademy.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesimplevueacademy/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nandi-edouard/
Image Credits
Jayla White
