Search Associates Strengthens Partnerships at NESA Fall Leadership Conference 2026

From supporting professional learning to sharing insights on effective international school leadership, Search Associates (SEARCH) continued to demonstrate its commitment to the international education community at the Near East South Asia Council of Overseas Schools (NESA) Fall Leadership Conference, held October 15–18, 2026, at the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand.

This year’s theme, NESA Curious; NESA Possible, invited leaders “to explore what learning can become when curiosity fuels possibility.” A sizeable and enthusiastic SEARCH team attended the conference, engaging with school leaders, connecting with new and prospective candidates, and strengthening relationships with schools across the region.

The conference featured seven specialist-led, interactive workshops addressing a range of topics, including AI use, student-centered learning, effective classroom observations and feedback, and leadership growth and momentum. These sessions provided valuable opportunities for educators and school leaders to exchange ideas and explore approaches to strengthening teaching and learning.

SEARCH was proud to sponsor the keynote by Trevor MacKenzie, “Cultures of Curiosity.” Introduced by SEARCH Senior Consultant Steve Razidlo, Trevor explored how schools can foster authentic cultures of curiosity. His presentation examined four types of student inquiry—structured, controlled, guided, and free inquiry—as well as the power of a provocation and the question triangle, which moves from closed to open questions. By highlighting the critical role of inquiry, learner agency, and purposeful learning experiences, Trevor demonstrated how schools can create environments that empower both students and adults to question, explore, and grow.

Trevor’s keynote was one of four engaging presentations featured at the conference. Additional keynotes were delivered by Craig Johnson, Rami Madani, and a team from UnconstrainED: Craig Johnson, Fiona Reynolds, and Alex Johnson.

Beyond its support of the conference’s professional learning program, SEARCH also contributed directly to conversations about leadership and career development in international education. Dr. Tim Stuart, Search Associates Director of Leadership Recruitment & Global Partnerships, and Dr. Lana Al-Aghbar, Search Associates Senior Consultant, presented “What Great International School Leadership Looks Like… and Why It Matters for Your Career.” Their session explored leadership recruitment and the core competencies that define strong, effective leadership in international schools.

The presentation emphasized intentional, strategic recruitment, including conducting thorough, school-specific research, aligning candidates’ experience and qualifications with position profiles and role requirements, and understanding how an individual’s digital footprint can influence the recruitment process. These insights underscored the importance of preparation and a thoughtful approach to recruitment for both schools seeking exceptional leaders and educators pursuing leadership opportunities internationally.

The SEARCH team, which also included Senior Associate Gez Hayden, attended several additional presentations and sessions while remaining actively engaged with new and prospective candidates and schools. These conversations offered further opportunities to understand the priorities of international school communities and connect with educators exploring future career possibilities.

The NESA Fall Leadership Conference provided a valuable opportunity for SEARCH representatives to connect with school leaders, strengthen existing partnerships, and establish new relationships across the international education community. Through professional dialogue, shared learning, and personalized support, Search Associates continues to build trusted partnerships with international schools, help them navigate their evolving recruitment and leadership needs, and connect educators with opportunities for professional growth.