From Dr. Nalini’s Desk

Four things I tell every leader I mentor

It is important to know your “Why”

When you’re clear on your purpose, the noise fades and your focus strengthens. Your “why” keeps you grounded in the work.

Relationship 101….is the core to leadership

This is the core of leadership. And leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about people. How you connect, listen, and show up defines the culture you create.

Trust is the foundation of building your culture

Without trust, nothing else lasts. Build it through consistency, honesty, and keeping your word.

Lead with the heart. It wins every time

Compassion and courage are never weaknesses: When you lead with heart, you inspire loyalty, respect, and real change.

Every child deserves a school culture
where they feel safe, valued, and seen.

My Journey

From NYC Classrooms to Global Conversations

I started as a paraprofessional in the New York City public school system, supporting students long before I had a title. Over the years, I moved into leadership — assistant principal, principal, mentor, and coach — serving communities across the Bronx.

The work has taken me from classrooms to the District office, from mentoring emerging leaders in New York to coaching education heads in Dubai. I’ve worked with community schools, presented at national summits, and contributed to academic research. But my purpose remains rooted in one simple belief: Every child deserves a school culture where they feel safe, valued, and seen.

This is evidenced by having a leader with emotional intelligence at the helm!

My joy comes from helping leaders build those cultures — not just through systems, but through the people who shape them. This work is about creating a space that people want to be part of and feel a sense of belonging.

The River of Life

Dr. Nalini Singh

Coaching Philosophy

Coaching with Care, Leading with Purpose

Emotional Intelligence

I believe leadership is deeply personal work. You bring your whole self into it — your story, your culture, your wounds, and your gifts. That’s why I coach through the lens of emotional intelligence, cultural responsiveness, and radical ownership.

Cultural Responsiveness

Whether I’m mentoring a new assistant principal or supporting a seasoned school head, my approach is never one-size-fits-all. We work together — looking at your context, your team, your goals — and build capacity from the inside out.

Radical Ownership

I don’t give you answers. I help you to reflect, allowing the answers to come through your sense of self and what you strive for. I help you ask better questions — the kind that move you and your school forward.

Testimonials

I started as a paraprofessional in the New York City public school system, supporting students long before I had a title. Over the years, I moved into leadership — assistant principal, principal, mentor, and coach — serving communities across the Bronx.
The work has taken me from classrooms to the District office, from mentoring emerging leaders in New York to coaching education heads in Dubai. I’ve worked with community schools, presented at national summits, and contributed to academic research. But my purpose remains rooted in one simple belief: Every child deserves a school culture where they feel safe, valued, and seen.
This is evidenced by having a leader with emotional intelligence at the helm!
My joy comes from helping leaders build those cultures — not just through systems, but through the people who shape them. This work is about creating a space that people want to be part of and feel a sense of belonging.

David Yuan

AIM Academy, Founder

Featured Book

Harmony Through Emotional Intelligence

A Whole-Life Integration Framework for Purposeful Living
Harmony Through Emotional Intelligence explores how we can live a more balanced and purpose-driven life by aligning four key dimensions — God, Self, Family, and Career.
In this thought-provoking and practical guide, Dr. Nalini Singh offers a framework for integrating emotional intelligence into every part of life. Drawing from decades of leadership and coaching experience, she helps readers connect deeply with their purpose, navigate challenges with emotional awareness, and create harmony between personal values and professional success.
Whether you’re a leader, educator, or lifelong learner, this book invites you to reflect, realign, and rediscover what it means to live — and lead — with heart and purpose.

Awards & Recognition