A trip that changed my life

3 years ago, I went on a trip that changed the trajectory of my life forever. I truly feel it's one of Canada’s best kept secrets and would love to get the word out so more can experience it.

The Governor General's Canadian Leadership Conference is a unique two-week program that happens every 3-4 years. It challenges participants to think differently about community, leadership, and Canada’s future. Approximately 250 delegates are selected to participate, and then assigned to one of 16 study groups – with each group travelling to a different region of Canada.

Remarkably, the program is funded entirely by donations from organizations and individuals, so the only cost to delegates is their transportation to and from the opening/closing plenary and the two-week time investment.

In June 22, I began my 16-day immersive adventure with the 14 amazing individuals in my study group, representing almost every province and territory in Canada and spanning professional fields (including business, labour, government, NGOs, health care, education and the cultural sector).

Experiencing some of the most challenging aspects of Canada and its history alongside such a diverse group of humans broadened my perspective and expanded my empathy more than I can ever express. I experienced my first traditional sweat lodge, visited residential school grave sites, met hundreds of people across multiple industries, and stayed up many late nights having deep, often highly emotional discussions and debates across every topic you could imagine, as we processed and reflected on what we experienced each day. The event culminated in a trip to Ottawa where each study group was given the opportunity to present our recommendations for the Future of Canada to The Governor General of Canada and all of our fellow delegates.

I'm forever grateful for the vulnerability and generosity each one of the amazing humans in my study group showed me during our trip. Through our almost daily WhatsApp chats in the three years ever since, we continue to share our experiences – from our toughest problems to our proudest victories - with one another in the spirit of unconditional support, learning and growth.

The 2026 Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference is now accepting applications. If you or someone in your network is an emerging leader with curiosity, an open heart and mind, and a desire to grow and contribute meaningfully to our country, I strongly encourage you to apply.

Applications are open until September 30, 2025.

Feel free to reach out if you want more information about my experience - I'm happy to share really openly about it.