Welcome to Episode 192 of The Darlington Podcast!
In this special episode, listen to Wendy Fitzwilliam, business executive, entrepreneur and senior parent, give her Commencement address on May 17, following an introduction from her son, Ailan Panton ('25). She encourages graduates to reflect on their Darlington experience and to use it as a launching point for their future, reminding them to adopt qualities of a tiger like confidence, determination, independence, perseverance, resilience, and adaptability.
Fitzwilliam has over 25 years of international experience advising government officials, corporate executives, NGO leaders, and academics. Trained as a lawyer, she was appointed Goodwill Ambassador by the United Nations and served in that capacity for over 15 years. She currently serves as the chairman of Dynamic 1 Group, an international holding company with diverse ownership interests in gaming, entertainment, mining, technology, and security in the Caribbean and Africa.
Previously, Fitzwilliam advised multiple state and private sector entities in Africa and the Caribbean on capital raising, business development, and key stakeholder engagement. She has also served as executive producer and host of popular television and radio programs in the Caribbean, including "Caribbean's Next Top Model"; a weekly columnist for a leading national newspaper; and has written a best-selling book on motherhood, "Letters to Ailan." She was appointed Ambassador of Youth by the International Red Cross, is the founder and chairman of The Hibiscus Foundation (a children’s charity) and was crowned Miss Universe in 1998.
The Darlington Podcast is a collaboration between the communication and advancement teams, and is hosted by various members of the school community. Episodes are released biweekly on Thursday morning and available on most podcast platforms (search for The Darlington Podcast in your podcast player). Once new episodes are posted, you'll also be able to find them at www.darlingtonschool.org/podcast. Please subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so that you'll get the latest episode!
The Darlington Podcast intro music was written and performed by Elliot Luitwieler ('22) and Kathryn Davidson ('22). Jaclyn Haynes, Upper School science teacher, lends her voice, and editing and production is handled by Maddie Chastain, content manager.
If you have ideas for future episodes or have any questions about The Darlington Podcast, please email communications@darlingtonschool.org.
