PSLP is an annual, cohort-based program that selects students across disciplines and backgrounds from UM as well as the other major Manitoba postsecondary institutions: University College of the North, the University of Winnipeg, Red River College Polytech, Université de Saint-Boniface, and Brandon University.

The program currently seeks the latest cohort of changemakers and innovators across disciplines and at any level of post-secondary study. Students with existing leadership impact and experience, formal or informal, are invited to apply by March 9, 2025.

Successful applicants join a cohort of peers to participate in a core week of workshops, site visits, and leader talks in June 2025. Participants then plan and complete a summer service leadership project in diverse teams, continue the program in the fall with two dedicated days of workshops, and participate in a field trip to northern Manitoba in winter 2026.

The program is supported by a network of senior leaders from different sectors who participate as one-on-one mentors to PSLP fellows for the year. Concluding each year with a graduation celebration, PSLP has seen many graduates go on to lead in their careers and communities in any field.

Applications for the seventh cohort of the President’s Student Leadership Program are now open. Learn more about this immersive and inclusive leadership opportunity today, and read more about the most recent community projects below.

Leadership shaped by community

This summer and fall, the sixth and current cohort of PSLP fellows worked with community organizations to advance initiatives including access to official ID for newcomers, engagement with Indigenous teachings for international students, a fundraising strategy for non-profits, and a food security information program for the elderly.

“The summer projects help build our PSLP fellows’ connection to their communities and leadership commitment, regardless of what profession or field they will go into,” said Dr. Suzanne Gagnon, Director of the Burns Leadership Institute and Associate Dean of Research at the Asper School of Business.

The sixth cohort of the program completed the following community projects:

Paint Your Teachings

Mackenzie Ferguson, Jory Thomas-Blanchard, Olamide Collins-Longe, and Alejandra Diabb Sanchez devised “Paint Your Teachings,” a paint night dedicated to the seven sacred Indigenous teachings. Hosted by the UM International Centre, the team conceived of and facilitated the event in partnership with Nancy Hamilton, a Knowledge Keeper.

Participants gathered to learn about Indigenous culture and beliefs while expressing their talents through art. After Hamilton guided them through the seven sacred teachings, participants were prompted to paint these teachings on rocks. As the workshop continued, they were encouraged to continue sharing their learning and the values that resonated most with them, bringing teachings to their communities.

Collins-Longe reflects on the impact of the project. “Our community project taught me the importance and power of communication and community, knowing when to step in and when to step back,” she said. Expanding on the impact of PSLP as a whole, Collins-Longe shares that the program “shifted my perspective on life and leadership.”

Identifying Boundaries

Oluwafemi Awopegba, Logan Basarowich, Madison Bonnefoy, and Kiera Butterfield’s project “Identifying Boundaries,” worked to lessen the barriers of obtaining identification for newcomers.

Working with community organizations NEEDS Inc, SEED Winnipeg, and the Me-Dian Credit Union, the group focused on the MPI Identification Card and the Social Insurance Number card. They determined that the most impact could be made by reducing financial and language barriers to accessing these important IDs.

In their project summary, the team writes, “by listening to the communities, we were able to reduce the gaps of access and help newcomers in Winnipeg with their pursuit of a happy life.”

Together, they created a step-by-step guide of how to obtain these forms of ID and translated these guides from English into Tigrinya, Arabic, and Ukrainian with support from the Ethiopian Society of Winnipeg, Islamic Social Services Association Inc, and Ukrainian community members.

KidSport Storybank

Laura Effinger, Craig Hillier, and Faye Vaquilar completed a project with KidSport Manitoba to help increase fundraising and marketing efforts. They created a Manitoba KidSport storybank to collect impactful stories and testimonials to inspire and engage the community in fundraising and marketing matierals.

The team developed a blueprint for listening generously and capturing KidSport family stories. To help build this competency and resource, they emphasized strengthening connections with KidSport members and staff through engaging events and staying flexible with both phone and in-person interviews with stakeholders and community members.

Rising Together through Story

Halem Hrizai, Noor Imran, Tobi Olanipekun, and Kezia Wong worked on a community project called “Rising Together through Story.” This storytelling workshop, in partnership with Newcomer Employment and Educational Development Services (NEEDS), aimed to help NEEDS students feel empowered to share their backgrounds, connect with their peers, and deepen their sense of belonging.

The workshop comprised two interactive, art-based activities that asked students to share the story of their name and reflect on what makes them feel at home. To ensure this workshop could be offered by others in the future, the group prepared a manual for NEEDS that outlines activity instructions and further recommendations for facilitators.

Mission Possible

Kelly Laybolt, Briana Oliver, Erin Sinclair, and Tooba Razi devised a community project that aims to address food insecurity among older adults (55+) in Manitoba. They partnered with Norwest Co-op Community Health and created a comprehensive, accessible resource pamphlet that lists local food programs and services.

Laybolt explains that despite the simplicity of the solution, the impact and learning were significant for this project. “It is important to listen to the needs of your target group. Had we approached our stakeholder with a completed plan and remained married to that idea, our leadership project would have been ineffective,” he says.

Through meaningful conversation and reflection, the team executed on a clear, targeted project to help centralize information about food resources to community members in need.

Fantastic Four Community Cookbook

Jenel James, Sahil Lekhi, Ayushi Pattharwala, and Ariel Wilcox worked together to create a cookbook that showcases a diverse collection of healthy, affordable, and simple recipes, all contributed by members of Manitoba’s immigrant communities. In addition to recipes, the cookbook provides practical resources for newcomers, including tips on navigating local food marketing, understanding nutritional labels, and making sustainable food choices.

The group is excited to continue this culinary work with a cooking class in collaboration with the Immigrant Centre that features contributors from the book.

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Housed at the Asper School of Business, the James W. Burns Leadership Institute at UM has been shaping the next generation of leaders through this flagship program since 2019. Learn more about PSLP, Manitoba’s premier postsecondary leadership program, today.

When she first took on this role, Gagnon was tasked with launching the President’s Student Leadership Program (PSLP). It was this unique opportunity to put her own leadership expertise into practice that drew Gagnon to Asper, joining from her long service as a faculty member at McGill’s Desautels Faculty of Management.

“As an academic role with a mandate to lead in community outreach and engagement and positively contribute to the business and social landscape of Manitoba, it was very compelling” she says. “The challenge of developing rigorous and impactful programming in leadership with strong ties to the community, specifically geared to help students take action for the future was very appealing and has been a great opportunity.”

A leader in leadership education

Gagnon got to work, meeting with business and community leaders across the province in post-secondary and beyond, leading with a curious and collaborative approach.

She quickly felt the connectivity of Manitoba, the willingness leaders had to share insights and networks, and the potential for a completely unique program that could tap into this collective energy.

In 2019, the first cohort of PSLP welcomed 27 students from post-secondary institutions across Manitoba, and in 2024, the program celebrated five years of immersive, inclusive, and innovative leadership education unlike anything else in Canada.

Reflecting on the last five years and the renewal of these interwoven roles, Gagnon says that she is most proud of her journey developing, shaping, launching, and sustaining PSLP.

In addition to this work, Gagnon founded the Leadership for Our Times: Critical Issues Series, and during her first tenure as chair, led the launch of a minor in leadership for UM students across faculties, through the Asper School of Business. She also conducted extensive research in leadership and in equity, diversity, and inclusion as this intersects with leadership and entrepreneurial leadership.

Her recent work includes a new article published in Organizational Dynamics (2024) based on interviews with CEOs across economic sectors conducted during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, theorizing their challenges and expertise in interconnected leadership, and a paper that integrates research paradigms to guide organizational change for greater equity, published in the FT 50 journal Human Relations (2022).

Associate Dean of Research

While excited to carry on her work as director and Canada Life Chair, Gagnon is also looking forward to a new portfolio as Associate Dean of Research at the Asper School of Business.

Gagnon previously served as Associate Dean of Professional Graduate Programs and Executive Education (2021 to 2024), during which she led the Asper MBA, MSCM, and MFin programs through pandemic lockdowns while advancing professional graduate offerings at the Stu Clark Graduate School and increasing enrolments.

With colleagues in Law, she successfully finalized UM’s JD/MBA concurrent degrees program, offered by the Asper School of Business and the UM Faculty of Law, which gives law and business students the opportunity to complete two-high impact degrees in four years.

“These are some of the things that I am most proud of. Of course, none of this work can be achieved by one person and I take pride in helping create that momentum, bringing a positive view to sometimes hard negotiations and seeing exciting new offerings go through.”

As Associate Dean of Research, Gagnon strives to build on the legacy left by past ADs and generate momentum.

“I aim to further advance the research culture at Asper, support and empower assistant professors to really optimize their research, and inspire strong mentorship. The best research benefits from open feedback, exchange, and collaboration, and I hope to support new opportunities for that at the Asper School of Business. We also want to provide every benefit to our PhD and MSc students.”

Big ideas, close connections

When Suzanne Gagnon discusses her work, she speaks as passionately about big-picture initiatives as she does individual students she has mentored through PSLP, the Asper MBA, and other programs.

Conversing with President Michael Benarroch on UM’s What’s the Big Idea podcast, Gagnon shares one of the core lessons PSLP fellows learn in the program, a recognition that they can and should “lead from the outside in.”

“I can lead, and I should lead,” she says, referring to students’ reflections, “but, it’s not just about me; it’s about us—and not only some of us, but all of us.”

Her own leadership is informed by this inclusive leading from outside in, a commitment to creating space for and empowering diverse voices and experiences that represent and contribute to the advancement of community connectivity.  

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The James W. Burns Leadership Institute at the I.H. Asper School of Business was created through the visionary investment from Canada Life, IG Wealth Management and the Power Corporation of Canada, as well as the Province of Manitoba. Learn more about the Institute’s impactful President’s Student Leadership Program here.

The PSLP welcomes students from all levels of postsecondary study and across disciplines. Participants, called PSLP Fellows, collaborate with each other, apply critical thinking and tap into their curiosity and passion to contribute solutions to complex leadership problems impacting Manitoba.  

The sixth cohort represents 22 different disciplines across four levels of postgraduate studies from the University of Manitoba, Red River College Polytechnic, University of Winnipeg, and University College of the North (Thompson).

Throughout the Core Week, PSLP Fellows meet leaders representing a number of sectors critical to Manitoba’s economic and social well being, from innovation in education and community development, to Indigenous leadership and economic growth, manufacturing, entrepreneurship and technology. Leaders discuss their most pressing challenges, opportunities and successes to help expand participants’ leadership toolkit and practice.

Along with an array of cutting-edge workshops, the Fellows learn from these inspiring senior leaders’ experience while building community and their capacity to lead in their careers in any field.

“These students have committed themselves to build on their already considerable leadership abilities through this collective learning experience over the coming nine months,” said Dr. Suzanne Gagnon, Canada Life Chair in Leadership Education at the Asper School of Business and program director. “They join more than 110 program alumni to date, and we are excited to see their future accomplishments in their careers and for our society.”

Congratulations to PSLP Cohort Six!

1. Oluwafemi Awopegba. University of Manitoba, PhD in Economics
2. Logan Basarowich. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Commerce, Honours (International Business)
3. Madison Bonnefoy. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Arts in Women & Gender Studies and Indigenous Studies
4. Kiera Butterfield. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Arts in Political Studies
5. Olamide Collins-Longe. Red River College Polytechnic, Diploma in Disability & Community Support
6. Alejandra Diabb Sanchez. University of Manitoba, Master of Natural Resources Management
7. Laura Effinger. University of Manitoba, Master of Business Administration
8. Mackenzie Ferguson. University of Manitoba, Master of Science in Agricultural and Food Sciences         
9. Craig Hillier. University of Manitoba, PhD in Applied Health Sciences
10. Halem Hrizai. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Arts in English
11. Noor Imran. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Microbiology
12. Jenel James. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Health Sciences
13. Kelly Laybolt. University College of the North, Bachelor of Arts
14. Sahil Lekhi. University of Winnipeg, Bachelor of Business and Administration
15. Tobi Olanipekun. University of Manitoba, Master of Science in Physiology and Pathophysiology
16. Briana Oliver. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Commerce Honours (Human Resource Mgmt)
17. Ayushi Pattharwala. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Biosystems)
18. Tooba Razi. University of Manitoba, Medicine
19. Erin Sinclair. University of Manitoba, Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
20. Jory Thomas. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Environmental Design
21. Faye Vaquilar. Red River College Polytechnic, Diploma in Business Information Technology
22. Ariel Wilcox. University of Manitoba, Master of Nursing
23. Kezia Wong. University of Manitoba, Master of Arts in Psychology

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The James W. Burns Leadership Institute is housed at the Asper School of Business and was created through a visionary endowment to UM from Canada Life, IG Wealth Management, the Power Corporate of Canada as well as the Province of Manitoba.

For more information about the President’s Student Leadership Program visit: https://umanitoba.ca/faculties/management/leadership_institute/3434.html

Twenty-two graduates received their certificates and joined the PSLP community of leaders making a difference in sectors from healthcare and technology to the arts, law and business. The event feted the now 113-strong contingent of PSLP alumni, and celebrated five years of immersive, interdisciplinary leadership education.

Unique in Canada, PSLP is the flagship program of the James W. Burns Leadership Institute, led by Dr. Suzanne Gagnon, Associate Dean and Canada Life Chair in Leadership Education at the Asper School of Business.

Each year, PSLP selects a cohort of students from across faculties, post-secondary institutions, interests and backgrounds to build their leadership potential. Participants have notable leadership experience already, serving in their communities, faculties, sports or elsewhere. The program is funded through a fellowship for participants, thanks to a visionary investment from Canada Life, IG Wealth Management and the Power Corporation of Canada, as well as the Province of Manitoba. Distinguished guests Paul Mahon [BComm(Hons)/86], President and Chief Executive Officer of Great-West Lifeco and of Canada Life and Renée Cable, Minister of Advanced Education and Training attended this year’s event to celebrate its five years of success.

Advisory Board Member Charles Henaire [BComm(Hons)/88] attended the graduation and anniversary celebration and articulated the Advisory Board’s vision for the program.

“When PSLP was envisioned, the idea was to continue to develop future leaders from Manitoba who would go out into our communities and beyond, to make a positive impact in their chosen fields. The opportunities and challenges facing our society are complex, and there is a tremendous need for leaders to help shape our future,” said Henaire, Deputy CFO and Chief Accounting & Control Officer at Great-West Lifeco.

PSLP is delivering on its vision as the program boasts diverse and influential alumni across many sectors.

Kevin Boreskie

A first-year emergency medicine resident, PSLP alumni Kevin Boreskie is completing a PhD in Applied Health Sciences at UM. As he describes it, PSLP unites students and leaders, highlighting the immeasurable impact of diverse, but interdependent, leadership skills.

“Through PSLP, I saw how the community leaders we met with through the program had incredible skill sets that made them effective leaders, but that these skill sets weren’t necessarily the same. What they had in common was passion for addressing a problem,” he says.

PSLP taps into students’ own drive to solve problems and serve their communities. This passion transcends institutions and occupations, and PSLP invites students from across Manitoba to connect with a network of committed peers.

Amy Jackson

PSLP alumna Amy Jackson notes that learning from others allowed her to reflect on the value of her own unique point of view.

Jackson received her Bachelor of Arts in History and Indigenous Studies from UCN. “Participating in PSLP boosted my confidence in valuing my unique perspective as an Indigenous woman from northern Manitoba. It has also broadened my mindset by exposing me to various ways of thinking,” she notes.

PSLP is designed as an inclusive program, teaching participants that effective leadership positively impacts communities, and that valuing diversity is central to healthy communities and competent leadership.

Kathleen Murphy

Kathleen Murphy is graduating from RRC’s Business Administration program and holds a Post-Bacc in Vocal Performance and a Bachelor of Music from UM. They explain how PSLP has improved their ability to lead in 2SLGBTQIA+ initiatives like the Rainbow Harmony Project.

“PSLP has been instrumental in building my confidence, refining my public speaking and defining my values as a leader. I am passionate about leveraging my leadership education to build inclusive spaces, empower people to raise their voices and form meaningful connections in service to others,” they say.

Community initiatives are included in the program pedagogy, with students working in groups to complete a hands-on service leadership project.

Jude Obidiagha

A senior policy analyst with the Government of Manitoba, Jude Obidiagha completed PSLP while pursuing his master’s in applied economics at UW. Obidiagha worked with fellow students on an Indigenous Newcomer Workshop, designed to build relationships between different communities and raise awareness about Indigenous culture among newcomers in Winnipeg.

“Through this community project with fellow young leaders in my cohort, I developed the skill of working with other passionate peers while cultivating leadership skills like empathy, active listening and collaboration,” he says.

Mentorship is in PSLP’s DNA, as students learn from dedicated faculty, experienced business, government and non-profit leaders, and their own cohort.

Reanna Merasty

Reanna Merasty was pursuing her Master of Architecture at UM while in PSLP, and is now architectural intern with Number TEN architecture Group. She describes her biggest takeaway from PSLP. “What stuck with me was the value of collaborative leadership, where we are not leading on an “I” but with an “us.” Collaborative leadership means using the strengths of others to achieve a shared goal.”

PSLP redefines leadership, giving students the skills they need to lead and succeed while reaffirming that effective leadership is often more collaborative than individual, more collective than self-serving, more dynamic than stagnant.

The vision for PSLP began as a desire to build on the leadership ethos that the donors saw in Manitoba, and to create new knowledge, relationships and experiences that would stay with and guide the participants as they entered their careers. Director Gagnon expresses how the program has lived up to that vision.

”We are extremely proud of these five cohorts of PSLP fellows and the hard work and care they put into participating in this program. We have seen many flourish with new activities in the community new positions in their fields, in academic work, government and, in industry. With the sixth cohort soon to begin the program, we look forward to continuing to create strong collective capacity that will help them to tackle the tough problems and create opportunities for the future.”

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Housed at the Asper School of Business, at the University of Manitoba, the President’s Student Leadership Program selects a cohort of students from across faculties, post-secondary institutions, interests, backgrounds and regions of the province to build their leadership potential.

Visit the PSLP website for full program details.

From now until March 8, socks and underwear can be dropped off in collection bins at the Bombers store. Those who donate will receive a 15 per cent discount on merchandise.

“The Bombers have been super generous for this project,” said Allison Balasko, one of the students behind the campaign.

The Underwearness Project was started by a group of University of Manitoba students in 2023 and aims to address the critical shortage of undergarments and socks, specifically for women. Donations are collected and passed along to Siloam Mission.

Read more

Successful applicants will join a cohort of peers to participate in a core week of workshops, site visits and leader talks in June 2024. Participants then complete a summer service leadership project in interdisciplinary teams, continue the program in the fall and take a trip to northern Manitoba in winter 2025. The program concludes with a graduation celebration. Participants also have an opportunity for individual mentoring with a senior leader from the community.

Housed at the Asper School of Business, the James W. Burns Leadership Institute at UM has been shaping the next generation of leaders through this flagship program since 2019. Students learn from senior leaders in different sectors, from non-profit, business and government to healthcare and technology. Program workshops teach from multiple perspectives, discussing leadership purpose, collaboration, conflict resolution, dialogue and negotiation, while students learn from their peers, deepening their knowledge and broadening their reach as future leaders.

Cohort 5 Visits The Pas, Manitoba

This February, the students of cohort five travelled to The Pas and Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN) to learn from Indigenous and community leaders in the North. The students met with distinguished leaders including Edwin Jebb, UCN Chancellor and OCN Band Counselor; Maureen Brown Onekanew (Chief) of OCN; Minister Judy Mayer, Vice President Manitoba Métis Federation, The Pas Region; and Doug Lauvstad, President and Vice Chancellor of UCN.

An inspiring panel with community youth leaders rounded out the visit, along with cultural activities. Panel members shared their personal experiences, life stories and current goals. The panel comprised Ashley Moore, Chief Executive Officer at Kíwétin Environmental Consulting Ltd; Gloria Packo, 2023 Northern Manitoba Trappers’ Festival Fur Queen and entrepreneur; Savanna Henderson, OCN Councillor and entrepreneur; and Desarae Lambert, Executive Director at The Pas Community Renewal Corporation.

While in The Pas, PSLP was hosted by Dr. Dan Smith, Vice-President of Strategic Growth at UCN and Burns Leadership Institute Advisory Board member. The trip exemplifies PSLP’s pan-provincial mandate, exposing participants to experiences of leading, living, working, and bringing change in Manitoba.

Said Dr. Suzanne Gagnon, PSLP program professor and director of the Burns Leadership Institute,

“Being in their community and learning directly from these leaders was an incredible opportunity for our PSLP students. They see how leadership contributes to reconciliation and how, in detail, the actions of leaders at all levels are bringing lasting change. This knowledge is critical to the understanding and capacity of any emerging leader preparing to serve in Manitoba and beyond.”

PSLP participant and UM Master of Sociology student Mehraz Sarker comments on the impact of the program.

“This experience has significantly contributed to my personal growth, leadership, and cross-cultural understanding. We extend immense gratitude to our hosts, partners, and all the leaders involved for their amazing support in nurturing us as future leaders.”

Justin Hiebert, Diploma in Business Administration (Marketing) student at RRC, added, 

“Having the opportunity to go to The Pas and meet leaders of the community was an incredible and humbling experience. I was able to grow and really see a new perspective through a different lens that I normally do not see. This will allow me to strengthen my leadership abilities in my future.”

Apply Today

Visit the PSLP website for full program details, eligibility criteria and instructions on how to apply. If you see yourself in the criteria for selection, we encourage your application!

PSLP cohort 5 catching the northern lights in The Pas.

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The Burns Leadership Institute was launched at UM in 2019, funded through a visionary investment by Power Corporation of Canada, Canada Life, IG Wealth Management and the Province of Manitoba.

The program provides students with training, connections and personal development, asking them to apply their insights and skills to projects that address social issues and make a positive, lasting impact in our communities. 

PSLP students connect with industry leaders who offer coaching and mentorship, and they receive training through a series of workshops. They work in multidisciplinary teams to find creative ways to have a leadership impact. In just a few short months, these teams go from concept to action: generating ideas, building partnerships and planning then carrying out community projects.

Lukas Neville, associate professor of organizational behaviour at the Asper School of Business and acting academic lead for PSLP, comments on the importance of these hands-on projects.

“There’s an element of leadership development that isn’t found in a classroom, a lecture, or a workshop alone,” says Neville. “It comes from the hands-on experience of building and carrying out initiatives and projects. These students met one another for the first time in May, and by the end of the summer were working closely in teams, putting their training into action and serving the community in deeply meaningful ways. It’s an amazing journey to see.” 

PSLP COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP PROJECTS 2023

Catalyst Collective

• Jennifer Breddam – University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Arts in Labour Studies
• Kathleen Murphy – Red River College Polytechnic, Diploma in Business Administration
• Victor (Chun) Chau – Red River College Polytechnic, Diploma in Applied Computer Education
• Winnica Beltrano – University of Manitoba, Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)

Catalyst Collective partnered with Aurora Family Therapy Centre to establish terms of reference for the Centre’s Elder-In-Residence (EIR) program that is being developed. This initiative is in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s (TRCC) 94 Calls to Action, specifically Call 22, which urges health service providers to offer culturally informed care to Indigenous Peoples in collaboration with Indigenous Elders and healers.

Developed in consultation with Indigenous programming experts, Catalyst Collective has produced a uniquely inclusive program grounded in mino-pimatisiwin, the Indigenous approach to helping. This program takes a holistic approach, prioritizing respect for the experiences, cultures, languages and traditions of Indigenous Peoples. It is designed to provide service to any person seeking Elder In Residence (EIR) services at Aurora Family Therapy Centre and aims to establish a connection between Aurora Family Therapy and Winnipeg’s Indigenous communities through direct and meaningful consultation and collaboration.

Community Canvas

• Abigail Kawadza – University of Manitoba, Master of Nursing (Administration)
• Justin Hiebert – Red River College Polytechnic, Diploma in Business Administration (Marketing)
• Mudra Dave – University of Manitoba, Master of Science in Kinesiology
• Randi Roy – University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Microbiology Hons. Co-op

The key objective of Community Canvas was to build community by fostering intergenerational connections, using painting as a medium of addressing and expressing current social issues. The team chose to focus on making connections across generations by bringing together community-dwelling older adults and youth.

“We see great value in bringing people together from different generations to raise awareness on multiple social and environmental issues through painting,” says the team. This intergenerational endeavor provided a space for socialization and elevation of creative growth in community-dwelling older adults while fostering intergenerational connections through art.

New Transitions

• Amy Lloyd – University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science (General)
• Carolina Cespedes – University of Winnipeg, Master of Science in Applied Computer Science and Society
• Christopher Yendt – University of Manitoba, Doctor of Philosophy in Education
• Mark Rauhaus – University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
• Mehraz Sarker – University of Manitoba, Master of Arts in Sociology

The New Transitions team partnered with the New Directions for Children, Youth, Adults and Families to offer supports to individuals living within the Supported Independent Living (SIL) program. The SIL program supports people with intellectual and physical disabilities to live independently based on their individual needs. This groundbreaking program took a critical step away from the institutionalization or service-centered approach and moved into a person-centered approach that prioritizes the person’s rights and empowerment.

New Transitions worked with New Directions to identify gaps in the transitional services provided and to pilot life-skills workshops. The pilot workshop taught relevant financial skills including how to budget, grocery shop, save income and set financial boundaries with loved ones.

SciFive

• Allison Balasko – University of Manitoba, Medicine (MD/PhD)
• Hiwot Jonk – University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Human Nutritional Sciences (Dietetics)
• Jesse Shen – University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Physics (Hons)
• Joao Carlos Fidencio da Silva – University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Biosystems Engineering
• Pelumi (Samuel) Akinola – University of Manitoba, Master of Science in Pharmacy

In collaboration with Siloam Mission, SciFive worked to raise awareness about the chronic shortage of adult undergarments and socks among unhoused individuals. The team recognized that these often-overlooked necessities play a crucial role in maintaining dignity and well-being among the unhoused. Through donation drives, they sought to address this shortage and provide essential items to community members. SciFive’s aim was to contribute to the integration of unhoused individuals within our Winnipeg community.

The first awareness and donation drive, held in partnership with Real Canadian Superstore (Winnipeg West) was a success. At the end of the drive, the team received approximately 250 pairs of underwear, 500 pairs of socks, and $365 in monetary donations. Building upon this success, the second donation drive saw an even greater outpouring of support, resulting in 530 pairs of underwear, 700 pairs of socks, and an impressive $1,836 in monetary donations, totaling $7,116 worth of donations.

Team iMPact

• Edwin Alarcon – Red River College Polytechnic, Diploma in Business Technology Management
• Michael Zarychta – University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
• Pinaz Mehta – University of Manitoba, Master of Business Administration
• Tasnim Ferdous – University of Manitoba, Master of Landscape Architecture

Team iMPact partnered with Harvest MB to enhance awareness and provide education to children and young adults on food insecurity. The project’s strategy involved creating educational tools designed for elementary students, as well as resources that encompass broader subjects such as constructing home and community gardens and addressing food insecurity. These resources were developed for Harvest MB as part of their extensive educational outreach efforts. With the support of Harvest MB, Team iMPact successfully presented the elementary-school-oriented presentation to a summer camp hosted by Sustainable South Osborne Community Cooperative.

The project’s core mission focused on creating awareness and facilitating the dissemination of resources to build capacity in starting home gardens, effective use of food banks and advocating for sustainable food practices, all aimed at mitigating the adverse consequences of food insecurity.

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The President’s Student Leadership Program is the flagship program of the James W. Burns Leadership Institute and unique-in-Canada immersive learning opportunity that brings together a cohort of students each year from across faculties, post-secondary institutions, interests, backgrounds and regions of the province to build their leadership potential.

Applications for the next cohort of the President’s Student Leadership Program will open on January 21, 2024, and close on March 3, 2024.

Allison Balasko, Hiwot Jonk, Jesse Shen, Joao Fidencio da Silva, Samuel Akinola chose Siloam Mission after visiting the shelter. They were struck by the staff and volunteers’ unwavering commitment to people experiencing homelessness. The group wanted to raise awareness about the shelter but also address the critical shortage of undergarments and socks.

The Underwearness Project was born. They have received approximately 250 pairs of underwear, 500 pairs of socks, and $365 in monetary donations. They are gearing up for a second donation drive.

When: Sunday, August 27th from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm

Where: Superstore (3193 Portage Ave.)

Additionally, the group will have drop-off spot at the UMSU Service Centre (1st Floor University Centre) starting on Monday, Aug. 28-Sept. 15, 2023.

Siloam Mission will also gladly accept donations every weekday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm at 300 Princess St. 

Even if they reach their goal, the group says the project is intended to be a long-lasting campaign that will continue to address this need for several years.

There is also a plan to create a newsletter that Winnipeggers can subscribe to so they can receive a yearly reminder about the campaign.

Representing an array of 18 unique disciplines, the 22 PSLP Fellows are emerging leaders enrolled at the University of Winnipeg, Red River College Polytechnic and the University of Manitoba. These selected participants demonstrate leadership experience in their community or student life, dedication to learning from diverse perspectives, and commitment to applying their learning to positive social change and making meaningful impact in their future careers. 

The program’s core week is an immersive experience featuring a range of learning formats: workshops, site visits and community building. PSLP Fellows hear from senior Manitoba leaders including Winnipeg Art Gallery President and CEO Stephen Borys, NFI Group President and CEO, Paul Soubry [BComm(Hons)/84,LLD/22], United Way Winnipeg CEO Michael Richardson, Winnipeg Boldness Project Director Diane Roussin [BSW/96], and Manitoba Chicken Producers Executive Director Wayne Hiltz [BSA/90]. They will also visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation with UM Elder-in-Residence Norman Meade [Ext.Ed/88]. 

Leadership workshops with Cate Friesen [BMR,OT/84] (The Story Source), Keren Taylor-Hughes [BA/85] (Leader-in-Residence and Agile Change Consultant), Rob Nickerson (Rob Nickerson Improv), Professors Lukas Neville (Negotiations for Emerging Leaders) and Jae Kim (Ethical Decision-Making) are also part of the program.

These components and others serve to enhance and strengthen PSLP Fellows’ leadership skills and capabilities while broadening their leadership networks and community of practice. While they learn from our community of senior leaders, they also learn from each other; their peer work draws on their different disciplines, diverse backgrounds and individual identities. The understanding of diverse perspectives they cultivate in the program is key for their leadership effectiveness. 

Professor Suzanne Gagnon, who developed the curriculum and leads the program through her mandate as Director of the Burns Leadership Institute, is proud to see how the participants and the program grow each year.

“Building on Fellows’ already impressive leadership experience and equipping them with relevant, cutting edge, and transferable skills suitable to any sector, the PSLP is committed to developing the next generation of leaders in Manitoba,” she says. “We evolve and adapt the curriculum to expose participants to the latest pedagogical trends in leadership, and we connect participants with senior leaders who share practical and real-life examples of how they approach and manage challenges and opportunities.” 

This year, Lukas Neville, Associate Professor of Organizational Behaviour at the Asper School of Business, will co-lead the academic side of the year-long program, the students’ summer leadership projects and fall activities in particular.  

Gagnon is grateful for all community and business leaders who support the program by sharing their time and experience with the participants. “The Program benefits tremendously from engaged and generous community leaders who share their and leadership journeys directly with our students through dedicated Q&A sessions, talks and mentorship. Over the four cohorts of PSLP to date, we have learned from an incredible array of inspiring leaders in many sectors,” she says.

PSLP Fellows undertake their work in addition to their regular studies, and this year’s cohort of 23 joins 91 PSLP graduates from the previous four cohorts.  

Congratulations to the new PSLP Fellows of Cohort 5!

Abigail Kawadza. University of Manitoba, Master of Nursing (Administration)

Allison Balasko. University of Manitoba, Medicine (MD/PhD)

Amy Lloyd. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science (General)

Carolina Cespedes. University of Winnipeg, Master of Science in Applied Computer Science and Society

Christopher Yendt. University of Manitoba, Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Chun Yin (Victor) Chau. Red River College Polytechnic, Diploma in Applied Computer Education

Edwin Alarcon. Red River College Polytechnic, Diploma in Business Technology Management

Hiwot Jonk. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Human Nutritional Sciences (Dietetics)

Jennifer Breddam. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Arts in Labour Studies 

Jesse Shen. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Physics (Hons)  

Joao Carlos Fidencio da Silva. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Biosystems Engineering

Justin Hiebert. Red River College Polytechnic, Diploma in Business Administration (Marketing) 

Kathleen Murphy. Red River College Polytechnic, Diploma in Business Administration 

Mark Rauhaus. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry 

Mehraz Sarker. University of Manitoba, Master of Arts in Sociology

Michael Zarychta. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Mudra Dave. University of Manitoba, Master of Science in Kinesiology

Pelumi (Samuel) Akinola. University of Manitoba, Master of Science in Pharmacy

Pinaz Mehta. University of Manitoba, Master of Business Administration

Randi Roy. University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Science in Microbiology Hons. Co-op

Tasnim Ferdous. University of Manitoba, Master of Landscape Architecture

Winnica Beltrano. University of Manitoba, Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)

We wish you a fantastic year ahead in the program. 

For more information about the President’s Student Leadership Program, and if you are interested in applying in 2024, visit the President’s Student Leadership Program website.

The Burns Leadership Institute was created through a visionary endowment to the UM from the Power Corporation of Canada, Canada Life, and IG Wealth Management. For more information on the Institute, please see: Burns Leadership Institute.

“I always dreamed I would get to this moment and feel this sense of accomplishment.”

Deidre Dewar joined the Bachelor of Commerce (BComm) program at the Asper School of Business as a mature student and a mother. This spring, she joins the Asper Class of 2023 at convocation.

Her undergraduate career began five years ago at Red River College Polytechnic. Through the Joint Articulation agreement, she was able to continue her studies at UM.

Dewar’s journey actually began much earlier with that ever-present dream and her unwavering passion for learning. A degree was more than a credential to her, and as she moved through life’s challenges and competing priorities, it took on more meaning.

As a child, Dewar observed her mother completing her bachelor’s degree, and in June she becomes the second in her family to do the same. She hopes to carry on this tradition, setting a strong example for her children, giving back to her community and inspiring other First Nations women.

Dewar reflects on her achievement, what it meant as a dream and how it is opening doors for her now.

“I wanted to pursue self-determination to secure a better quality of life for myself and my family—to be a role model for my kids and show them that persistence and dedication can help you achieve your goals.”

Dewar made sacrifices to complete an undergraduate program while balancing family life. Ultimately, her family’s support and the years she spent working before returning to school were what helped her succeed.

“When I was younger, the first time around, I didn’t have a lot of security or as many supportive people around me. This time, I do, but it took time to set that up for myself,” she says.

Early mornings getting her kids ready for daycare before class and late nights studying math were manageable thanks to this support and her conviction that the sacrifices would be worth it.

Dewar also came into the program with an eye for possibility, an ability to imagine success for herself and take advantage of every learning opportunity.

At Asper, she joined the President’s Student Leadership Program (PSLP), surrounding herself with a diverse group of student leaders from a range of backgrounds.

“PSLP was amazing,” she says. “It was an exploration of leadership at all levels, and Dr. Suzanne Gagnon was an integral part of that journey.”

Gagnon, Leadership and Organization Director at the Burns Leadership Institute, introduced Dewar to the Women’s Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) at Asper and WEKH Indigenous Lead Ashley Richard. Dewar eventually secured a research assistant position at WEKH and worked on their See It Be It campaign which increases visibility and representation of women entrepreneurs.

Dewar is also a graduate of Indigenous Business Education Partners (IBEP) at Asper, where she accessed tutoring and career services.

“The team at IBEP were great mentors, and they helped me see what’s out there, including jobs that are more equity seeking or Indigenous-friendly. There are larger institutions that I never thought I could work at, but IBEP was very supportive, bringing those employers in and empowering me to see myself in those roles.”

Dewar’s experiences with PSLP and IBEP expanded the boundaries of what she believed was possible for herself; they revealed more paths forward than she had expected.

As she reflects on graduation, Dewar is in no rush to choose which path to follow. Instead, she is embracing this feeling of possibility and taking time to celebrate her achievement.

“I went to the Graduation Pow Wow and celebrated with other Indigenous graduates. I am glad to wear my ribbon skirt and practice my cultural identity through graduation. Asper has helped me be more confident in my cultural identity as well as my business skills.”

She has a few new dreams for her future—while she might pursue entrepreneurship on the side, she is currently considering graduate studies. She might even like to teach one day.

“Right now, I’m taking it all in, all the years of hard work, all the patience, all the sacrifice,” she says.

She has arrived at the moment she always dreamed of, and that arrival brings a sense of purpose. “I don’t yet know exactly what that purpose is, but it’s coming together—it’s manifesting,” she says.

Dewar worked for years to secure something more important than a singular purpose. In committing to learning, making sacrifices and embracing her story—challenges and all—she found possibility.