Lesson in leadership: 40 years of challenging the status quo

In 1983, the Governor General held the first Canadian Study Conference which brought together leaders from the corporate, community, public and labour sectors for an intensive immersive experience designed? to challenge the participants’ assumptions and prejudices; to give them the chance to examine real situations and the issues arising from the interaction between industry, and the people and communities it serves.?

Forty years later, there are 2 500 alumni of what is now called the Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference. And last week, 200 of us met in Ottawa for what was only the second official reunion but likely not the last.

We gathered to celebrate a shared intergenerational experience, to continue our learning journey and to discuss how we will move forward together as accomplices who build more inclusive, sustainable and just communities. We discussed EDI, moving from safe spaces to accountable spaces and from reconciliation to reconciliACTION as well as our responsibility towards the next generation of leaders.?

Talking with my fellow alumni allowed me to process and assess my own journey since I discovered my connection to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, learned about the province’s unique makeup and was challenged to rethink my role within the community at the 2017 Conference.?

Upfront, you need to know that people are chosen to participate as individuals, not as delegates from their sector or organisation. For me, just that was powerful. I was on sabbatical that year and had been struggling to introduce myself without the title or organisation that came after my name. The simple fact that I was invited as Stacey, nothing more, nothing less, let me know that that, in and of itself, was enough. I now show up as my authentic self every time. And I work to enable others to do the same.?

Since, my confidence has grown. My beliefs are clearer. My voice is stronger. By listening to the stories of others, I’ve developed greater empathy and a broader perspective. This new mix influences my decision-making and guides my actions. And none of this would be possible without my fellow alumni, the many speakers, the organisations who opened their doors, the volunteers, the organizing committee, the GGCLC Secretariat and many more individuals who have invested in sustaining this network over decades. And of course, Geneviève Brisson who, in 2016, introduced me to the Conference and not only encouraged but actually convinced me to apply. I appreciate every one of you and I thank you.

In 2017, his Excellency David Johnston, said “The most important role for leaders is to give hope” and I left the conference overflowing with optimism. Last week, Kory Wilson , reminded us that moving forward, "Our job is to turn hope into capacity." And I know that is exactly what we will do. ??????