ABOUT ME

Clarity | Confidence | Career Direction

A portrait of Indi Kalsi, mentor and educator

"Every twist in my career taught me resilience, leadership, and the power of mentorship - now I get to be the guide I once needed."

My Journey into Higher Education Leadership

My career path has never been a straight line but it's been real, rich, and shaped by lived experience.

In my early 20s, I had passion, potential, and a desire to do something meaningful. But like many, I had no map. I didn't know what I wanted, how to get started, or who to turn to. There was no mentor for me then, just a lot of trial and error, and the hope that somehow I'd figure it out.

I began in administration roles, learning on the job, growing behind the scenes, and picking up essential knowledge about systems, people, and resilience. Slowly, I found my footing. I realised that leadership wasn't a title, it was about showing up, making space for others, and staying curious.

Step by step, I progressed through roles in Higher Education, gaining experience in operations, academic support, and strategy. Along the way, I gained academic foundations in Education Studies with Employment, and later completed a Master's in Management Studies, which strengthened both my practical and strategic approach to leadership.

Today, I co-lead a Business School at a UK university alongside the Dean - a role that brings together my passion for people development, leadership, and education. But mentoring is where my heart lies, because I know what it's like to need someone and not have them. Once I finally found a mentor, it changed everything. I was able to clarify my goals, build confidence, and take action that was aligned with my values. That experience fuels why I mentor today: to be the guide I once needed.

Why Book a Mentoring Session With Me?

I've walked the path

I know what it's like to feel unsure of your direction or stuck in your career. My journey wasn't always smooth, but it's made me a grounded, empathetic, and practical mentor.

Real-world experience

I've worked across multiple levels in Higher Education for over a decade, from administration to senior leadership. I understand complex systems, workplace dynamics, and how to grow in them.

Academic grounding

I hold a Degree in Education Studies with Employment and an MSc in Management Studies, giving me both the theoretical understanding and practical tools to support others effectively.

Practical support

I bring real HR and recruitment experience from my time with Reed, offering hands-on advice with CV writing, cover letters, and interview preparation techniques.

Deep personal development

I've attended transformational events like Tony Robbins' seminars and global women's entrepreneurship conferences. I've invested in my own growth, and I bring those lessons to my mentoring practice.

Creative entrepreneur

I've run a successful Henna and Arts & Crafts business for over 15 years. I understand the challenges (and joys) of running something of your own, balancing creativity with confidence.

What I Offer in My Mentoring Sessions

  • A safe, non-judgmental space to talk honestly about where you are
  • Help identifying your strengths, values, and what's holding you back
  • Tools to plan your next steps, whether it's a career move, a confidence boost, or something more personal
  • Honest, experienced insight into navigating professional spaces
  • Accountability and encouragement to take aligned action
  • Culturally aware and inclusive support as an active mentor with London Higher's Global Majority Mentoring Programme

Let's talk. Your clarity starts here.