5-minute read
Post Contributed by Anja Sadovski, Communications Specialist, College of Pharmacists of Manitoba
Leadership Winnipeg Class of 2024-2025
Reflections from the Latest Leadership Winnipeg Session
The latest Leadership Winnipeg session was a powerful day of inspiration, practical wisdom, and community spirit, showcasing leaders who have made significant impacts across various sectors. From philanthropy to environmental sustainability and community activism, each speaker offered a unique perspective on leadership, resilience, and the importance of giving back.
The day began with a warm land acknowledgment and welcome from Doneta Brotchie, Program Director, followed by remarks from the Honourable Anita Neville, Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, and Loren Remillard, President and CEO of The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, setting a thoughtful and energizing tone for the day.
Keynote Speaker: Ash Modha on Purpose-Driven Leadership
Ash Modha, Founder and CEO of Mondetta Clothing, delivered the keynote address, sharing his journey of building a global company with a strong commitment to social responsibility. Mondetta’s journey toward becoming a certified B Corporation, achieving net-zero contributor status, and setting ambitious emissions targets exemplifies the company’s dedication to sustainability.
A particularly impactful moment in Ash’s presentation came when he highlighted the inherent challenges and complexities in making ethical decisions and prioritizing sustainability. He stated that while doing the right thing requires more work and the path of integrity demands additional effort, the rewards, such as fostering trust, loyalty, and positive change in individuals and communities, are immeasurable and create a lasting impact far beyond immediate outcomes. Ash emphasized that it’s possible to align profitability with purpose, underscoring the role of business leaders as changemakers who redefine success to include positive impacts on people and the planet.
Gail Asper: Community and Connection
Gail Asper, a renowned philanthropist and president of the Asper Foundation, offered reflections on community building and the doors that open through service. She highlighted that sitting on boards not only grants access to decision-makers but also fosters lifelong connections in a close-knit community like Winnipeg. Her advice was to embrace opportunities, as you never know when a connection will become valuable. “People give to people,” she reminded us, stressing the importance of building trust through face-to-face interactions. Gail’s message reinforced that true leadership is about fostering relationships and giving back to the community.
Jessica Dumas: Resilience and Following Your Intuition
Jessica Dumas, a life coach, speaker, and Leadership Winnipeg alumna, shared a motivational story of resilience. She recounted times when she felt like quitting, believing no one would notice. However, by persevering, she discovered her calling in public speaking and coaching. Jessica encouraged us to evaluate our speaking skills and leverage the limitless potential of online platforms. Her advice was clear yet impactful: don’t wait for recognition as motivation. Instead, trust your intuition, a vital tool for decision-making and authenticity. Her journey serves as a reminder to lean into personal passions and purpose, even when the path forward isn’t immediately clear.
Jackie Hunt: Leadership Beyond Credentials
Jackie Hunt, Senior Director of Strategy and Impact for End Homelessness Winnipeg, shared valuable insights on the importance of strong communities and the impact of serving others. Reflecting on her experience in municipal government, she noted the lack of women in those roles and how, despite feeling out of place, she proved to herself and others that she belonged at the table.
Jackie emphasized that personal qualities matter more than formal qualifications. Empathy, kindness, and passion for your work or volunteer efforts are what truly count. She encouraged us to approach challenges with curiosity and enthusiasm, reminding us that we can make a meaningful impact through volunteering or serving on boards, even without extensive education or experience.
Justin Phillips: Embracing Failure and Pioneering Innovation
Justin Phillips, Vice President and COO of Standard Carbon Inc., shared his entrepreneurial journey in renewable energy and his passion for environmental stewardship. His story of overcoming personal health challenges, including surviving a brain tumor and enduring partial hearing loss, resonated strongly.
Justin emphasized the importance of humility and encouraged us to turn our failures into successes. He urged us not to shy away from discussing our shortcomings, recognizing that it is fundamentally human to make mistakes. By being candid about our challenges, we can connect with others and foster genuine relationships. He reminded us that there is always something to learn from our mistakes and encouraged facilitating conversations that share both the good and the bad.
A Day of Reflection and New Beginnings
Each of these speakers brought something personal and unique, yet all shared a common thread: the importance of leading with purpose, resilience, and a commitment to the community. This day served as a reminder that while leadership journeys may vary, the drive to make a positive impact is universal.
Thank you to Lieutenant Governor Anita Neville for her patronage of the Leadership Winnipeg program.
Thank you to our sponsors for making the Leadership Winnipeg program possible.
Vision Partners: Canada Life, Johnston Group, The Winnipeg Foundation
Proud Partner: Assiniboine Credit Union
Proud Supporters: Boston Pizza, Change Innovators Inc., Honest Agency, University of Winnipeg
