As we begin the new year, it is my pleasure and honour to step into the role of President of the International Confederation of Principals (ICP). I would like to begin by thanking Leendert-Jan Veldhuyzen, our Past-President, for his leadership over the past two years. His dedication and commitment to our association and its members have been evident throughout his tenure. I have learned a great deal from Leendert-Jan, and I will continue to rely on his guidance and support as I move into this role.

I would also like to sincerely thank the remainder of the ICP Executive—Sofia Hughes, Damian White, Leanne Otene, Matthew Johnson, Welcome Mhlanga, and Magdalena Kassis, for their ongoing contributions and commitment to the leadership of ICP.
As we look ahead, I remain deeply committed to our core mission: the development, support, and promotion of school leadership. As the only global network of school leaders, ICP has a unique opportunity to shape the future of education on a global scale and to drive systemic change that improves learning outcomes worldwide. We can do this by continuing to share best practices, fostering opportunities for deep and meaningful dialogue, championing equity, and seeking strategic partnerships that positively impact the working conditions of school leaders and their capacity to drive student success. The continued development of our business plan will be central to this work, and a focus at our upcoming Executive and Council meetings.
2026 will be an exciting year for ICP as we look ahead to the 2026 ICP Council Meeting and Convention in Auckland, New Zealand. Our hosts, the New Zealand Principals’ Federation, together with the ICP Executive, are developing engaging and forward-focused agendas. I also encourage you to review the communications from our ICP Secretary, Sofia Hughes, which outline upcoming webinars, speakers, and highlights from our magazine. In addition, our regional representatives will be leading regional meetings, providing valuable opportunities for members to contribute to ICP’s mission and help shape our next steps.
In a world of ever-changing relationships and priorities, ICP is uniquely positioned to demonstrate the critical value of global connection and collaboration. I look forward to our continued exchange of shared and diverse perspectives, sustained international engagement, and collaborative efforts toward meaningful progress in the enhancement of school leadership.
All the best,
Nancy

