IPN Spotlight: Laila Bandali (President at Ivy Kids Early Learning Centers)
Laila is President and Founder of Ivy Kids Early Learning Centers (ELC). She has over 15 years of experience in developing Early Childhood Education (ECD) curriculum, management systems, operational policies and procedures. To date Laila has managed teams that have started up eight child care centers in the state of Texas. Prior to Ivy Kids ELC, she has over 25 years of experience as a Chemical Engineer in the Oil and Gas Industry.
What skills have helped you in your career?
My education and work experience as a Chemical Engineer helped me in designing systems, processes and evaluation methods. My MBA and work experience in refining economics and marketing taught me financial discipline, how to evaluate financial statements and manage the business side. I also had great mentors who inspired me to become an entrepreneur.
What do you wish you had known or done differently throughout your career?
Be more data driven, by that I mean use data analytics more to drive your decisions rather than using gut feeling. I have a tendency to jump to conclusions when making decisions based on what seems like the right thing to do.
What do you do for continuing education and improvement?
Currently my focus is on Early Childhood Education (ECD) curriculum. I attend as many professional conferences as I can on this subject matter. I spend a lot of time with experts in ECD to increase my curriculum knowledge. I read at least two articles every day. I train and lead curriculum workshops to solidify my knowledge base (in short, I am obsessed with developing my skill set).
What is next for you in your career?
I would like to take our systems at Ivy Kids and build a solid franchising business. My hope is that we can inspire others to become independent entrepreneurs and experience the joy and success of running a school. I would also like to take our model to third world countries where there is a severe lack of quality Early Childhood Development (ECD).
What advice would you offer to others?
Don’t let fear of the unknown stop you from venturing out. I truly believe that taking calculated risks is better than inaction. My advice would be to find a good mentor, trust your mentor and let them guide you through your journey (but begin your journey – don’t wait).
Areas where you can help other Ismailis:
I can help professionals with their business plans, evaluate business options within the ECD space, motivate people to take action, and help with recruitment and hiring.
Please provide the link to your LinkedIn profile:
Laila Bandali
Region:
Southwest
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