: 12 | Issue : 12 | 2024
Catalysts for Change How Inspiring Leaders Are Redefining Educa on?
The Power of Inspira on Inspiring Leaders
Empowering Students and Transforming Educa on
Empowering Students Realize Their Dreams of Studying Abroad Sushil Sukhwani,
Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.
Sushil Sukhwani , the visionary Founder of
Edwise International , stands out as a shining light of inspiration in a world where education has been the cornerstone of personal and professional growth. Through an unwavering commitment to guiding students toward global opportunities, he has transformed the landscape of education consulting by empowering countless young minds to chase their dreams.
Founded with the intention of making the whole study abroad process easier and seamless, Edwise International was created under Sushil. With his leadership, today it has grown into one of India's leading education consultancies, helping many aspire to join world-class universities and bridge the gap for those who cannot directly. Sushil has brought in vision through a love for education and helped thousands of students through complex admission processes, financial planning, and cultural transitions with confidence.
Unwaveringly devoted to education as an activity of change, Sushil has focused on providing proper guidance since education is said to be " the key for unlocking the world of opportunities . The role for this is students equipped to make an enlightened decision on the direction of their own future ". This ideology pushed Edwise International toward
working out student-specific service-oriented solutions according to their aims and requirement.
Sushil’s leadership style blends innovation with empathy, ensuring that Edwise International stays ahead of industry trends while maintaining a studentcentric approach. From offering insights into emerging fields of study to leveraging technology for seamless virtual consultations, he has consistently adapted to the evolving demands of the education sector. His efforts have not only empowered students but also positioned India as a significant contributor to the global talent pool.
Indeed, he has influenced beyond guidance provided in academics. By hosting or providing initiatives for cross-cultural education, thereby improving his networking skills, Sushil has significantly influenced an emerging generation of leaders with the readiness to be impactful individuals in a networked world.
Sushil Sukhwani’s journey is a testament to the profound impact of visionary leadership in education. By nurturing aspirations and creating opportunities, he has set a benchmark for excellence, earning him Insights Success India ’s well-deserved title of “ The Most Inspirational Leader Empowering the Education Sector .”
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My arduous path to earning an MBA abroad, which I eventually completed at Bond University in Australia, fueled my desire to simplify this process for others.
It was a time in the late 80s before the liberalization of
the Indian economy when a young graduate, Sushil Sukhwani , dreamed and desired with all his might to study abroad. At first, he wished for his dream destination— America.
However, Sushil soon finds out the first biggest challenge. He couldn’t study in the land of his dreams. Yet, he did not lose hope. In his words, “ When institutions in the USA told me I couldn’t study there because I had a three-year bachelor’s degree, I turned to the Australian Consulate General in Mumbai for guidance about the possibility of studying in Australia .”
To Sushil’s surprise, they were unaware of his options and only provided a phone number for the High Commission in Delhi. Undeterred, he took a 16-hour train ride to visit them in person. They, too, didn’t have information.
Sushil then travelled to Sydney, Australia. He had to go the extra mile to find his perfect university fit. “ I visited an education fair and then toured 15 campuses across Australia before making my final decision ,” he says, reflecting on his journey.
After completing his MBA, Sushil realized that his saga had just begun with a blend of personal passion and a keen awareness of the challenges students face in pursuing an education abroad. He adds, “ My arduous path to earning an MBA abroad, which I eventually completed at Bond University in Australia, fueled my desire to simplify this process for others .”
This experience highlighted the need for genuine support for the aspirants, as Sushil had to go through such a challenging journey before being able to study at an international institution. Recognizing this gap in the market for guidance and support motivated him to set up Edwise International in 1991.
“ The potential to transform lives through education became my driving force ,” says Sushil, who imagined a consultancy that not only assists students but also empowers them to realize their dreams. This initial spark of inspiration ignited his commitment to facilitate global education opportunities for anyone wanting to study abroad, “ And I am proud to have built Edwise on this foundation. Today, we have expanded to 24 branches across India, making it easier for students nationwide to access the guidance and resources they need to pursue their dreams of studying abroad. ”
As I had to go through such a challenging journey before being able to study at an international institution, this gap in the market for guidance and support motivated me to set up Edwise International.
In the last 33 years, Edwise became a pioneering platform that provides comprehensive guidance and support. As the Founder and CEO of Edwise International and a member of the American International Recruitment Council (AIRC) , Sushil is committed to ethical recruitment practices and ensuring the best interests of students. Edwise's core mission is to empower students and help them achieve their academic and career aspirations .
Through personalized counselling, expert guidance, and a strong network of international institutions, Edwise has helped countless students secure admissions to top universities worldwide. Sushil's hands-on approach and dedication to excellence have made Edwise a trusted name in the field of international education.
The guiding philosophy of Edwise International is rooted in trust and excellence, says Sushil. “ We believe that every student has unique aspirations and needs .” So, they focus on understanding individual goals and providing tailored support to help them achieve them. This student-centric philosophy has propelled their success, ensuring that they remain not just a consultancy but a trusted partner in their students' educational journeys.
To date, Sushil and his company have successfully sent over 2,00,000 students to study abroad , a testament to their commitment and effectiveness in guiding them toward their academic goals. By cultivating strong relationships with educational institutions worldwide, which today amount to more than 950 institutions , they empower
students by giving them the chance to make informed choices. “ Our mission extends beyond just placements; it’s about fostering a community where aspirations are nurtured, and students are given the space to flourish into high agency individuals ready to thrive in a global landscape ,” he states.
In today’s evolving educational landscape, Edwise stands out through a few key USPs:
Ÿ Free personalized counseling since 1991 ,
Ÿ Global partnerships with 950+ universities, and
Ÿ A visa success rate of 99% – which is the highest in the industry .
Sushil adds, “ We pride ourselves on offering tailored guidance that aligns with each student’s individual aspirations, connecting them to top universities in over 16 countries, such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore , and many others .”
Additionally, Sushil and his expert team offer coaching for all major tests like TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE, ACT, SAT , etc. They also assist with career counselling, admissions assistance, scholarship assistance, acquiring education loans, booking flight tickets and accommodation assistance to support their students throughout their journey.
“ Our commitment to student success and satisfaction remains unwavering, making us a trusted choice for aspiring international students ,” he insists.
To date, we have successfully sent over 200,000 students to study abroad, a testament to our commitment and effectiveness in guiding them toward their academic goals.
Sushil’s dynamic leadership style is often recognized as a driving force behind Edwise International’s achievements. According to him, his approach to leadership is founded on collaboration and empowerment. “ I believe that a strong, motivated team is essential for success ,” he says, fostering an open environment where ideas are encouraged and everyone’s voice matters. “ Regular team-building activities and training sessions are also integral to our culture, helping us grow collectively and individually ,” he adds. By investing in his team’s development, Sushil ensures they are equipped to provide the best guidance to our students. Celebrating achievements, both big and small, reinforces their shared commitment to excellence.
This dynamic leadership style has cultivated a passionate, dedicated team that is genuinely invested in its mission, which drives the company forward.
The essence of future educational revolution lies in innovation, disruptions, and enhancing the learner experience. Striking a balance between teaching efficiency and student satisfaction is vital to their mission at Edwise, says Sushil. He adds, “ We implement innovative teaching methodologies that prioritize student engagement and learning outcomes .” Their emphasis on personalized support, combined with comprehensive resources, enhances the overall learner experience. Feedback loops are integral; “ We actively seek student input to continuously refine our approach ,” Sushil assures. This dual emphasis on efficiency and satisfaction ensures that Edwise students not only gain knowledge but also feel valued and supported throughout their educational journey.
Digitally Equipped Educational Access
Digitalization and technological advancements are crucial aspects of the modern educational ecosystem. Believing in it ardently, Sushil says, Edwise International is the first institute to have a website, a CRM, Chat + Toll-Free and a search engine . Incorporating digitalization and
technological advancements is a cornerstone of the company’s strategy.
For example, it was one of the first education consultancies in the space, which introduced the concept of virtual meetings where a student sitting anywhere in the world can directly contact one of its counsellors online and get answers to all their queries. Sushil says they utilize advanced data analytics to understand student needs and preferences better, tailoring their services accordingly. They also invest in training their team to embrace new technologies, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. “ Our commitment to integrating technology at every level positions us to effectively meet the evolving demands of the educational landscape ,” he adds. It includes communication on Zoom and WhatsApp.
Edwise International achieved remarkable success due to its numerous transformational initiatives. One of the hallmark initiatives that exemplifies its commitment to excellence and innovation is the “ World Education Fair .” Pioneered by Edwise, this event is organized in 17 cities throughout India and serves as a comprehensive platform for students aspiring to study abroad. It brings together representatives from top universities worldwide, allowing students to interact directly with them, ask questions, and receive tailored guidance–all under one roof.
Our mission extends beyond just placements; it’s about fostering a community where aspirations are nurtured, and students are given the space to lourish into high agency individuals ready to thrive in a global landscape.
What makes the World Education Fair truly special is that it’s completely free of charge for attendees. This commitment to accessibility ensures that students from diverse backgrounds can benefit from high-quality information and resources without financial barriers. “ Over the years, we've expanded this initiative to host multiple events throughout the year, each attracting thousands of students eager to explore their educational options ,” Sushil informs.
As the cornerstone of any successful institution, Sushil says that at Edwise, they view their counsellors and teaching staff as the backbone of their institution. “ To foster a culture of growth and empowerment, we prioritize professional development through workshops and training programs, which ensures that they are well prepared to assist the students in any way ,” he adds. They encourage their employees to pursue continuous learning, ensuring they stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
We pride ourselves on offering tailored guidance that aligns with each student’s individual aspirations, connecting them to top universities in over 16 countries, such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and many others.
Recognizing and rewarding individual contributions is also crucial, adds Sushil. “ We celebrate milestones and achievements to motivate our team .” This supportive environment cultivates not only skill development but also a sense of belonging, inspiring the staff to excel in their roles and contribute meaningfully to their students’ success. “ We have a blended internet training system with 1:1 training, mock counselling, buddy counselling, training curricula and tests ,” he reveals.
As a leader in India's educational sector, Sushil and Edwise’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. One particular instance that tested their resilience was during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. “ As international travel restrictions emerged, we had to pivot rapidly to online counselling and support services ,” recalls Sushil, adding, “ The ingenuity of our team shone through as we developed virtual workshops, webinars, and one-on-one virtual consultations to ensure students remained informed and connected .”
This proactive approach not only helped them maintain their service quality but also strengthened their relationships with students and institutions. “ We also assisted students in navigating the complex visa processes that arose due to the pandemic. The collective determination and adaptability of our team turned a crisis
Additionally, we offer coaching for all major tests like TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE, ACT, SAT etc.
into an opportunity for growth and innovation ,” he says with pride.
Furthermore, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, they’ve implemented robust contingency plans to prepare for future uncertainties. This includes enhancing their digital infrastructure to facilitate seamless online operations and ensure continuity of services regardless of external circumstances. “ We’ve established flexible communication channels to keep our students informed and supported, no matter the situation .” By fostering a culture of agility and adaptability, Sushil says they are well-equipped to navigate future disruptions, ensuring that their mission to support students remains unwavering.
Education is a way for the Indian economy to pace up its knowledge potential and capacity. To budding entrepreneurs venturing into the educational space, Sushil advises them to prioritize understanding the needs of their students before developing their offerings. “ The education sector is diverse, and identifying gaps where you can add value is crucial .” Ensure that lasting relationships are built with educational institutions and stakeholders to create a supportive network. Don’t forget to embrace technology and innovation, as they are key drivers in today’s landscape.
Most importantly, remain adaptable; the educational landscape is ever-evolving. “ Stay committed to your vision while being open to feedback and change. Your passion for overseas education and counselling will ultimately pave the way for your venture’s success .”
Looking ahead to 2025, Sushil’s vision for Edwise International is to expand its reach and open even more branches across India while keeping the success of its students as its top priority. “Collaborating with more global institutions will also be a top priority as that allows us to offer even broader opportunities to our students,” he adds.
Their focus will remain on fostering a supportive community that prioritizes individual aspirations. “ By continuously innovating and adapting to the educational landscape, we aim to be at the forefront of transforming international education, making a lasting impact on students’ lives in India and beyond ,” he concludes.
Ever since education has been the platform,
progressing nations can be seen to be carving them and empowering individuals. Everchanging contemporary needs, technological advancement and aspirations of students in achieving change are now challenging the tradition al pattern of education. It becomes the backbone of transformation spearheaded by inspiring leaders for change, redefining modes of delivery, perception and value of education.
The role of educational leaders, in this sense, is never administrative. Today, school leaders are visionaries who have been innovative and also changemakers. They understand that this future will demand much more on the lines of critical thinking, creativity, and responsiveness. For example, when leaders like Sushil Sukhwani of Edwise International talk about bridging gaps between students and worldwide opportunities, he has brought a change to the ways education consulting was done prior to this, ensuring opportunities and world-class resources catered to goals for aspiring learners.
This has been the most impactful transformation among other things in which leaders have transformed education. The rise of virtual classrooms, AI-led learning systems,
and digital collaboration platforms has significantly changed traditional approaches to teaching. For example, Sal Khan, through the Khan Academy, used the potential of technology to open up the opportunity of higher quality education to any connected individual around the world.
These leaders realize that technology benefits accessibility and personalizes learning experiences. With this, data analytics, and through adaptive learning tools, a teacher might reach the actual needs for individual students so none are allowed to be left behind, especially these ones who make up those communities of least privilege educationally.
Inspiring leaders are also shifting the focus from formal education to lifelong learning. They understand that the future workforce must continuously adapt to changing industries and technologies. Institutions and organizations now emphasize skill development, online certifications, and experiential learning opportunities.
For example, LinkedIn Learning and Coursera are some of the initiatives led by education and business leaders that have enabled millions to upskill and reskill on their own terms. It recognizes that learning does not end at the door of the classroom; it is a lifelong journey.
Systemic inequities are addressed as education is redefined. Inspirational leaders advocate for initiatives promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in education. Such programs as providing scholarships for underrepresented groups, safe spaces for the marginalized communities, and inclusion of diverse cultural perspectives into curricula reshape the landscape of education.
Malala Yousafzai is the epitome of how leadership can break barriers and ensure every child has the opportunity to learn through her advocacy for girls' education. This, in turn, not only empowers individuals but also fosters a more inclusive and empathetic global society.
Today's leaders recognize that education is as much about learning to feel and to work with others as it is about book smarts. They encourage wholistic approaches to learning, mental health and emotional well-being, as well as relationships. Such curricula contain more of these mindfulness lessons, conflict resolution, and even community service.
Dealing with these aspects, the leaders ensure that students are academically competent, emotionally resilient, and socially responsible. That is to say that this is critical in preparing persons to survive in a complicated and interdependent world.
Inspiring leaders in education are also cultivating global citizenship among the students. As they promote crosscultural cooperation, sustainability, and social relevance, they are preparing students for positive contributions to the world.
Global education initiatives, such as IB programs, emphasize values of intercultural understanding and respect. Individuals in leadership positions encourage kids to think beyond borders and confront global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.
Redefining education will require cooperation among sectors, such as academia, industry, government, and nonprofits. Bridge-builders will be those leaders who create the ecosystems that foster innovation and opportunity.
Such collaboration has led to STEM programs partnered with tech companies that give students skills for the jobs of the future.
These collaborations also provide students with real-world exposure, enabling them to apply their learning in practical contexts. Such experiential learning opportunities are invaluable in preparing students for the complexities of modern careers.
As education continues to evolve, inspiring leaders will play the most important role. They will fuel the integration of new technologies, promote equity and inclusion, and develop lifelong learners. The new approaches will make education remain relevant, impactful, and accessible to all.
These leaders remind us that education is more than a system but a catalyst for personal growth, societal progress, and global change. They are redefining education to build a future where every learner will be empowered to reach their potential and contribute meaningfully to the world.
Their efforts during this era of rapid transformation are a testament to the power of visionary leadership in building a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Education is the backbone of development in society,
molding the mind and aspirations of tomorrow. However, in this scenario of modern technological development, cultural changes, and global challenges, the model of education is being totally changed.
Indeed, inspiring leaders -educators, visionaries, or change makers-who energize students to redefine what is possible for education to offer are at the heart of this change. These leaders understand that inspiration is the key to unlocking potential and laying a foundation for lifelong learning.
Visionary leadership is a factor of change.
Inspiring leaders in education believe that education goes beyond teaching in ways traditionally perceived. Education is considered an empowerment tool, a bridging gap tool, and an innovation platform. As an example, Malala Yousafzai inspires girls all over the world to have access to education; she has shown how a single voice can spark global action. Such a leader's vision impacts students as well as teachers, creating a chain of positive effects.
Such leaders understand the importance of developing curiosity and critical thinking. They teach students to question, explore, and innovate in skills that are crucial to a future full of uncertainties. By emphasizing problemsolving, adaptability, and creativity, they prepare the student to be an active member of society.
Inspiring leaders are moving away from mere rote memorization and towards holism. They realize that learning must address not only academic but also emotional intelligence, social skills, and personal development. Programs that incorporate mindfulness, community engagement, and experiential learning are quite common because of visionary education.
For instance, SEL programs enable learners to know how to manage their feelings, create positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Such programs make the learner successful in any environment and are an essential key to success in today's world: resilience and empathy.
The integration of technology into learning is probably one of the most monumental achievements of the 21st century. Inspiring leaders embraced this change and utilized digital tools to offer learning experiences that are tailored for the individual. AI and data analytics-powered platforms enable educators to design lessons that will be responsive to the needs of every learner, hence not leaving any learner behind.
Sal Khan of the Khan Academy is an apt example in how technology can be applied in democratizing learning.
This facility offers free quality resources to millions of students globally across cost and geographical barriers.
Such leaders understand that immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) can make it engaging to learn. These encourage the exploration of new ideas and concepts with much excitement and enthusiasm by offering students experiential learning experiences that are interactive.
The inspiring leader in addressing systemic inequalities in education does so by advocating policies and practices that ensure equality among all students regardless of race, class, etc. By offering scholarships and other mentorship programs that introduce inclusive curricula to allow for success in communities most in need.
The likes of Teach For All , founded by Wendy Kopp , focus on bringing quality education to areas that cannot afford it. It brings the gap between those educated and those not, which in turn makes society a more equal one.
Champions of equity also emphasize the need for representation in education. By promoting diversity in teaching staff, leadership positions, and educational content, they ensure that students see themselves reflected in the system, which inspires confidence and ambition.
Inspiring leaders know that education doesn't take place only within the classroom. They have a culture of lifelong learning, where students pursue knowledge and skills throughout their lifetime. This is the greatest mindset in a changing world, where one has to be adaptable and continually strive for self-improvement.
Online learning platforms such as Coursera and edX, spearheaded by visionary leaders, have revolutionized access to education for professionals and lifelong learners. These platforms allow individuals to upskill themselves with flexible, industry-relevant courses that make them competitive in their careers.
Now education, according to leaders and institutions, must mean so much more than achieving passing grades. Preparation of children to be successful responsible world citizens is perhaps a large part of modern-day schooling.
Inspiring leaders always mention intercultural awareness, sustainability, and making an impact for social welfare as some very significant responsibilities of the times. End.
International programs such as the Model United Nations give students experiences in working together across cultures, developing leadership skills, and developing a global orientation. Leaders who support initiatives like these make sure their students are ready to work in a networked world.
Inspiring leaders have an influence that extends beyond the students they come into contact with. The transformations they bring to education systems and inspire others to continue with in the same area leave a legacy of empowerment and progress. Innovative approaches and commitment to the success of students serve as a blueprint for future educators and policymakers.
These leaders are proving to everyone at schools, colleges, and organizations around the globe that education is the ultimate catalyst for change. When inspiring students, it helps the students not only master skills in academics but grow compassionate, innovative, and strong individuals who will lead this world into its great potential.
