Nia: Teaching with Purpose, Leading with Vision
- Shapel LaBorde
- Dec 30, 2024
- 6 min read
I've been reading this book that is so divine in timing (more on that later) so this post is minutes before the next day. In Swahili, Nia means purpose. In practice, it means aligning our personal goals with the collective uplift of our community. For me, Nia is the heartbeat of everything I do as a Black woman, scholar, and educator. It is the guiding force behind The Practipel Pedagogue, my philosophy of education, and the reason I step into every classroom, every meeting, and every moment of my life with intention. Big Stepper Shapel.
Nia in My Journey
Growing up in South Jamaica, Queens, I learned early on that purpose is not something given to us—it’s something we start to create and step into. My great-grandmother, Grandma Babe, was a living embodiment of Nia. Hopefully by now you understand my Grandma Babe was all of Kwanzaa for me. She raised me with love and resilience, always encouraging me to dream beyond what the world told me was possible.
Her lessons shaped my path as the first in my family to pursue a PhD and as an educator who sees teaching as more than a job—it’s a calling. Nia reminds me that my work is not just for my own advancement but for my daughter, my family, and every student I encounter. It is a payback for thoae who carve the way for me today. Thank you!
Nia in The Practipel Pedagogue
Purpose in Education
The Practipel Pedagogue is built on the belief that education must be purposeful. Every lesson, every conversation, every interaction is an opportunity to inspire students to see themselves as agents of change. It’s about helping them discover their own Nia—their unique purpose—and equipping them with the tools to pursue it boldly. I remember when I was a young girl my teachers would pour into me. I am so lucky to have had great experiences for my journey as a scholar but there were a few who reminded me to believe in myself more than their doubts.
Culturally Sustaining Practices
Through The Practipel Pedagogue, I center the voices, experiences, and histories of Black and Brown students, ensuring they see their identities reflected in their education. Purpose means rejecting one-size-fits-all models and embracing practices that honor who our students are and where they come from. I want my classroom and my pedagogy to feel like Grandma's living room because that was hnestly my first classroom, Grandma Babe's living room.
Community Transformation
Nia reminds me that my work as an educator is not just about individual success—it’s about building a stronger community. The programs I design, the policies I advocate for, and the spaces I create are all rooted in a vision of collective empowerment. In the realm of education, the impact of our efforts extends far beyond the classroom walls; it resonates throughout the entire community. Each initiative I undertake is carefully crafted with the intention of fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared sense of purpose among students, families, and educators alike.
As I reflect on my role, I recognize that education serves as a powerful catalyst for change. It is not merely about imparting knowledge to individual students; it is about cultivating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. The programs I design are not isolated efforts but rather interconnected threads that weave together the diverse tapestry of our community. For instance, when I develop after-school activities, I ensure they not only cater to academic enrichment but also promote social skills, teamwork, and cultural understanding. This holistic approach allows students to learn from one another, fostering relationships that transcend the classroom.
Moreover, the policies I advocate for are grounded in the belief that equitable access to resources is essential for community growth. I actively seek to influence decision-makers to prioritize funding for programs that support underrepresented groups, recognizing that when one segment of the community thrives, the entire community benefits. By championing initiatives that address systemic inequalities, I aim to create a more just educational landscape where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
The physical spaces I create also play a crucial role in this vision of collective empowerment. If it doesn't give Grandma Babe's cozy faithful living room with plants - I don't want it! I strive to design classrooms and communal areas that are not only conducive to learning but also reflect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the students I serve. By incorporating elements that celebrate various cultures and perspectives, I help cultivate a sense of belonging. This inclusive atmosphere encourages open dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect, essential components for a thriving community. Ultimately, Nia's reminder serves as a guiding principle in my work. It reinforces the idea that my efforts as an educator are part of a larger mission to uplift and strengthen the community. By focusing on collective empowerment, I am not only preparing students for their individual futures but also equipping them to become active, engaged citizens who will contribute positively to society. In this way, the impact of education reverberates beyond the present, shaping a brighter, more interconnected future for all.
Nia in Action
In the Classroom
When I teach, Nia guides me to look beyond the curriculum and ask, What will this mean for my students’ lives? I design lessons that spark critical thinking, creativity, and self-discovery, helping students connect their learning to their purpose.
With My Daughter
As a mother, I take on the vital role of teaching my daughter the importance of living with intention, a concept that encompasses mindfulness and purpose in every aspect of life. Together, we engage in meaningful conversations about our dreams and aspirations, exploring not just what we want to achieve individually, but also the collective goals that bind us as a family unit. We discuss the significance of setting both short-term and long-term goals, and how these aspirations can guide our daily actions and decisions. Too much for a five-year-old, then you have not met the Sage Ali. LOL This girl goes deep, philosophically and spiritually. I am sure I must have birthed an Ancestor again. Because.....
In our discussions, I emphasize the idea that every small step we take contributes to the larger picture of our lives and the legacy we are building together. This legacy is not merely about material success, but also about the values we uphold, the kindness we extend to others, and the memories we create. My daughter inspires me deeply; her curiosity and enthusiasm for life motivate me to show up with purpose every single day. I understand that my actions, both big and small, have a profound impact on her development and worldview, shaping her understanding of what it means to live a life filled with intention and meaning. I am so proud of the way she is her own person and I hope and pray I can continue to guide her to be proud of both her actions and who she is as a person.
We often reflect on the importance of resilience and perseverance, discussing how setbacks are merely stepping stones on the path to achieving our dreams. I encourage her to see challenges as opportunities for growth, reinforcing the idea that living with intention also means being adaptable and open to change. This ongoing dialogue not only strengthens our bond but also instills in her the belief that she has the power to influence her own future. She is very competitive which I love but I see the ways in which she needs to just let it go and breathe, she challenges me to set that standard for her to model.
Through our shared experiences, I aim to model the behavior I wish to see in her, demonstrating that living with purpose is a continuous journey. We celebrate our achievements together, no matter how small, and learn from our mistakes, fostering a growth mindset that will serve her well throughout her life. Ultimately, my hope is that she will carry these lessons forward, understanding that the choices she makes today will echo into her tomorrow, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond her own life and into the lives of those around her.
In My Community
Nia fuels my commitment to South Jamaica, Queens—a place that raised me and continues to inspire me. Whether I’m organizing community events, mentoring young leaders, or advocating for systemic change, my work is always guided by the question, How can I contribute to the collective good? I have so many ideas in store!
Nia for All of Us
Nia is more than a principle—it's a lifestyle. It encourages us to navigate life with purpose, to pay tribute to our ancestors by creating a better future, and to utilize our talents for a cause beyond ourselves. Personally, Nia underpins The Practipel Pedagogue, embodies the essence of my teaching career, and represents the legacy I aspire to leave.
🌿 This Kwanzaa, and every day, I invite you to reflect on your Nia. What drives you? What are you building? How does your purpose align with the needs of your community? Together, we can create a world where every student, every family, and every community thrives with intention. Explore more at www.shapellaborde.com.
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