• In line with the conference theme Whole Hearts, Clear Paths: Empowering Student Well-Being and Purpose, this keynote explores what young people truly need in order to thrive in international school settings. Academic knowledge alone cannot sustain a student’s growth; they also need opportunities to make meaningful choices, to feel the satisfaction of growing in competence, and to experience authentic connections with others. When these conditions are missing, students may appear successful on the surface yet lack fulfillment, direction, or resilience.

• Together, we will consider what happens when students are given structure without freedom, encouragement without progress, or friendships without belonging. The keynote underscores the counselor’s vital role in creating spaces where students can connect their learning to identity, relationships, and future purpose. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how to walk alongside students with both compassion and clarity — empowering them to develop whole hearts and to chart clear paths toward meaningful futures.

Location: Auditorium