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Federal Youth Network/Career Boot Camp/CBC Speed Mentoring 2026
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Revision as of 10:07, 8 January 2026 by Tina.porretta (talk | contribs)
| Landing Page | Career Boot Camp 2026 | Speed Mentoring | Archives |
Speed Mentoring
WHAT:
These 90-minute sessions of virtual, structured speed mentoring, will allow groups of 4-5 mentees to meet with one mentor for 20 minutes at a time (through Zoom breakout rooms). There will be three rounds of networking per session.
Resources
Sample Questions for Speed Mentoring Sessions
Mentee Speed Mentoring Instructions
Mentor Speed Mentoring Instructions
WHO:
All public servants are invited to be mentees.
WHEN:
- Session 1 (English): Tuesday, January 13 from 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. EST
- Session 2 (French): Wednesday, January 14 from 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. EST
- Session 3 (English): Wednesday, January 14 from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. EST
- Reverse Mentoring Session (Bilingual): Thursday, January 15 from 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. EST
WHERE:
Online, via Zoom.
MENTEE REGISTRATION:
- Session 1 (English): https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/wU7DD9DdR-eDVdP0cHAjlQ
- Session 2 (French): https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/xZIhzqPiT8uoIZuXjT4Elw
- Session 3 (English): https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/2rx_HqOjSSyiwg3yif3gLA
- Reverse Mentoring Session: Meeting Registration - Zoom
Please note that this event will be using Zoom. As some departments have blocked Zoom, you may be required to use your personal device for this event.
Mentors:
Session 1
| Rochelle Wacklin | Scott Koehler | Sarah Francescutti | Chandra Giroux | Emma Feunekes | Lieutenant-Colonel Neil Rodriguez |
| Hanna Stewart | Timothée Labelle | Manon Labelle | Sébastien Renard | Guillaume Beaulac | Sarah Scott |
| Hannah Manning | Mark Eichhorst | Wei-Ju (Heidi) Wang | Philippe Harpin | Malvika Fragomele | Tooba Tariq |
| Sal Paladino | Racha Younes | Michel Léger | Sarah Brickell | Jason Fox | Rochelle Burkowski |
| Jeff Reader | Natasha Cote-Khan | Josee Curry |
Session 2
| Timothée Labelle | Sébastien Renard | Guillaume Beaulac | Stacey Rehel | Simon Blais | Jason Mathieu Larose |
| Franck Olivier YAO | Liliane Bruneau | Isa David | Philippe Harpin | Michel Léger | Jason Fox |
| Simon Morin | Elizabeth Cyr | Josee Curry | Sarah Brickell | Marc-André Lebel | Stacey Rehel |
| Malvika Fragomele | Hannah Manning | Mark Eichhorst | Wei-Ju (Heidi) Wang | Hope Hutchins | Susan Young |
| Jenny Wang | Delia Pop | Lindy McQuillan | Lee-Ann Bacon | Katie Moran | Camille Beausoleil |
| Raffaela Mandarino | Isa David | Tooba Tariq | Rochelle Burkowski | Jeff Reader | Natasha Cote-Khan |
| Roger Leroux | Amandeep Sangha | Ian Chatwell | Erin Murray | Daniel Leppington |
Mentor Biographies
| Name | Position | Department | Biography |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rochelle Wacklin | Policy Advisor - Analyst | Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat | Rochelle Wacklin is a policy advisor at the Treasury Board Secretariat, where she provides strategic advice on housing-related Treasury Board submissions and previously served as the lead advisor on Women and Gender Equality Canada submissions. She also worked at Employment and Social Development Canada on homelessness policy and at Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on innovation and economic development initiatives. A graduate of Simon Fraser University and Carleton University, Rochelle began her federal career through the Advanced Policy Analyst Program, completing rotations at all three central agencies and later mentoring incoming analysts. Originally from rural Alberta, she now lives in Ottawa with her partner and their four children, including 2.5 year old twins. Outside of work, she enjoys yoga, travel, and—on most days—keeping up with her toddlers. |
| Scott Koehler | Assistant Director, Individual Compliance Division, GTA East TSO | Canada Revenue Agency | For the past three years, Scott has served as an Executive with the Canada Revenue Agency, where he has lead the Individual Compliance Division within Ontario. Scott provides strategic leadership in advancing organizational priorities and enhancing service delivery for Canadians through the Non-Filer Program. With a public service career spanning more than two decades, Scott has held a range of progressively senior leadership roles across the federal government since 2012. Known for a commitment to operational excellence, collaboration, and innovation, Scott has led multidisciplinary teams, supported major transformation initiatives, and contributed to strengthening accountability and results within the public sector. |
| Sarah Francescutti
|
Senior Gender-Based Analysis Plus Advisor | National Defence | Over 21 years of experience with Canada’s Defence Team, beginning as an Army Reservist for six years before transitioning to civilian leadership roles. She spent a decade supporting ill, injured, and transitioning members through the Transition Centre and Office of Disability Management. Currently serves as Senior Strategic Advisor in Gender-Based Analysis Plus and Strategic Issues Management for the Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel), a $6B organization of 5,000 people responsible for procuring military equipment for the Canadian Armed Forces. She leads initiatives that promote inclusion, address complex challenges, and supports ADM-level strategic communications. She holds a Master’s in Business and certifications in Strategic Leadership, Executive Coaching, Emotional Intelligence 2.0, and PROSCI Change Management. Sarah lives in Victoria with her husband and young daughter, volunteers with BC Hands & Voices, and is passionate about mentoring others in leadership and creating aligned career transitions. |
| Chandra Giroux | Manager of Policy and Stakeholder Relations | Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada | Chandra Giroux is the Manager of Policy and Stakeholder Relations for the Nutrition North Canada program (CIRNAC) and was previously the Manager of the Recruitment of Policy Leaders (RPL) program. Before joining the federal government, she was an academic teaching at the University of Ottawa and Carleton, as well as an archaeologist working in Ottawa. Chandra created and runs a Government of Canada network called “Academics Connect”, which brings together academics across government on a monthly basis to discuss how they can better serve Canadians and Canada in their role as public servants. Chandra believes strongly in the importance of curiosity to inspire creative change and the power of enthusiasm to motivate. |
| Emma Feunekes | Project Manager | Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat | Emma Feunekes is a systems builder who turns complexity into momentum, guiding teams toward solutions that feel attainable, sustainable, and inspiring. She champions continuous improvement, designing processes and data stories that help people see opportunities they didn’t realize were within reach. Known for her steady confidence and optimistic drive, Emma encourages teams to stretch their thinking and embrace the art of the possible in every challenge. |
| Lieutenant-Colonel Neil Rodriguez | Deputy Chief of Staff - Operations | National Defence | Neil J. Rodriguez is a Lieutenant Colonel in the Canadian Armed Forces, currently serving as Deputy Chief of Staff Operations (DCOS Ops) within 7 Comm Gp. Originally from Montreal, he joined the CAF in 2004 and has served at multiple Bases and Wings across Canada, with operational deployments to Eureka, Afghanistan, and Kosovo. He holds a master’s degree in engineering from the University of Manitoba and a Master’s in Defence and Security from the Royal Military College. |
| Hanna Stewart | Policy Analyst | Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada | Hanna is a new mentor with the Federal Youth Network. She comes from the Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) where she works as a policy analyst with the International Crisis Response team. Hanna began her time with the public service in 2018 when she was a student with the Settlement and Integration Policy Branch (also at IRCC). After her term, she went on to pursue a Master of Arts in Sociology (2018-2020). When the pandemic hit, Hanna reconnected with some of her colleagues at IRCC and landed her first full time gig with IRCC’s Citizenship Branch, supporting the development of the citizenship guide for newcomers. Since then, she has done a stint with the formerly known Enterprise Project Management Officer (EPMO) and with the Mass Arrivals Settlement Branch, welcoming the latest cohorts of mass arrivals including Afghans, Ukrainians, the Rohingya, Americas, and now Gazans. Hanna is very excited to join in on the fun of Career Boot Camp and to share her experiences with others. As a younger professional, Hanna’s life so far has been about people. Her previous positions, both in and out, of government have been related to engagement. In her current and most recent roles, she has led stakeholder engagement work by with stakeholders about cases, public policies, and settlement work for Afghans, Rohingya peoples, Sudanese, Ukrainians and now Gazans. In her free time, she loves to give back to her community and is a volunteer with the Canadian Museum of Nature and a guide runner through Achilles run club, a group that pairs guides with athletes who are blind or visually impaired. |
| Timothée Labelle | Director, Intergovernmental Policy and Programs (Official Languages) | Canadian Heritage | Timothée has joined the department of Canadian Heritage as Director of Intergovernmental Policy and Programs (Official Languages) in December 2023. Since beginning his career in the federal public service in 2015, he has worked in several departments including as policy advisor to the Associate Deputy Minister of Indigenous Services Canada, and senior policy advisor at the Privy Council Office. He lives and works in Montreal. |
| Manon Labelle | Manager | Indigenous Services Canada | Manon joined Indigenous Services Canada in June 2023 as Manager of the Reserve Lands and Environment Management Program. Before that, she spent 15 years in other public service roles, leading teams at Employment and Social Development Canada and Shared Services Canada, and contributing her skills at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General. She’s a certified change management practitioner with a passion for stakeholder engagement, mentoring, career development, and helping people thrive. When she’s not working, Manon is the mom of two very energetic boys—and the wife of a third! She loves strong coffee, traveling, biking, hiking, cooking, and getting lost in a good book. |
| Sébastien Renard | Manager - Adaptation and Resilience - Natural Resources Management Branch | Parks Canada | Sébastien Renard has been with Parks Canada for over 10 years. He has worked as a scientist in terrestrial and marine protected areas, specializing in ecosystem health monitoring. Since 2 years, he is now manager of the Adaptation and Resilience team of Parks Canada's National Directorate of Natural Resource Management. His team provides advice, expertise and tools to Parks Canada's protected areas to better adapt to climate change.
|
| Guillaume Beaulac | Director, CX Impact Measurement and Client Insights | Employment and Social Development Canada | Guillaume Beaulac joined the Client Experience Office (CXO) at Service Canada as the acting Director of the CX Impact Measurement and Client Insights team just over a year ago. He previously held roles as a manager and behavioural scientist at Shared Services Canada, Global Affairs Canada, and at Impact Canada within the Privy Council Office. He leverages his expertise in applied behavioural science, in change management, and in innovation in the public sector to drive impactful, evidence-based improvements across government programs and policies. With a strong foundation in research, he seeks out new ways to deliver better outcomes for the population of Canada, blending data-driven strategies with creative problem-solving. |
| Sarah Scott | Manager, HR Programs and Policies | Canada Revenue Agency | Sarah started her career in the CRA as a student in 2018. She has worked in several areas in the Agency, including communications, program evaluation, strategic planning, digital transformation, and HR. In 2023, Sarah was accepted into the CRA's Agency Leadership Development Program: a program designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of the Agency through accelerated development. She is currently on assignment, as a Manager of HR Impact Analysis, in the CRA’s HR branch. Sarah has also been involved in Young Professionals Networks (YPN): she was the CRA's National Chair from 2020-22, and the Co-chair for the National Capital Region YPN 2021-23. In her free time, Sarah is an amateur musician, an avid reader, and enjoys a good old fashioned at Rabbit Hole, one of her favourite spots on Sparks in Ottawa. |
| Hannah Manning | Deputy Director | Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada | Hannah joined IRCC in 2018, bringing with her a strong foundation in public service from her time at the Canada Border Services Agency, first as a student Border Services Officer then as a program officer working on enforcement and intelligence files. Since then, she’s carved out a dynamic career in national security and intelligence policy, including a few short-term temporary duty assignments processing temporary resident visa applications. In her current role as Deputy Director in the Integrity Policy and Programs Branch, Hannah leads a team that provides strategic advice and policy guidance on migration integrity, national security, and intelligence. She’s passionate about policy, people, and making complex issues understandable and actionable. To further her knowledge and deepen her expertise in this field, Hannah completed a Master of Arts in Terrorism, Risk and Security Studies at Simon Fraser University. She’s been both a mentor and a mentee, and she thrives on connecting with colleagues to swap best practices, spark learning, and share knowledge. |
| Mark Eichhorst | Retired Canadian Diplomat | Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada | Mark Eichhorst served 34 years as a Canadian diplomat, with postings across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Europe. He occupied manager level roles for over 25 of those years, including two long term assignments at the EX1 level. As a manager, Mark actively participated in mentoring new staff. He also has extensive experience in the recruitment process for new Foreign Service Officers, and has served on multiple promotion boards. Since retiring in the summer of 2025, Mark continues to be active as a mentor and also regularly delivers presentations about international opportunities at high schools and universities. He also volunteers in his community. |
| Wei-Ju (Heidi) Wang | Data Lead | Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat | Heidi Wang (They/Any) is currently the Data Lead on the Open Government Portal Business Team. A creative force, Heidi blends data expertise with a passion for storytelling and digital government. Heidi is an alumni of the Canada’s Free Agent program with experience spanning five federal departments, including monitoring and reporting on infrastructure investment at Indigenous Services Canada, supply and demand modelling to support the COVID-19 response at Health Canada, designing learning on and building a community around data and artificial intelligence at the Canada School of Public Service. Heidi can normally be found knitting or giving belly rubs to a screaming cat named Mishka. |
| Hope Hutchins | Manager, Research Programming and Mobilization | Infrastructure Canada | Hope Hutchins (she/her) is currently the manager of the Research and Knowledge Initiative at Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada. In this role, she stewards research projects and mobilizes knowledge and tools to address housing and infrastructure priorities across Canada. With experience in six federal departments, Hope brings a broad perspective, a passion for continuous learning, and a commitment to helping others leverage transferable skills to create impact within and beyond the federal public service. She particularly enjoys discussing data collection and analysis, project management, multidisciplinary collaboration, engagement, workplace wellness, accessibility, and her very tiny dog. |
| Susan Young | A/National Manager | National Defence | Susan Young began her public service career as an administrative professional in 2018 and quickly advanced through the ranks. She currently serves as Acting National Manager for the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC)’s 24/7 Support Line. In her substantive role, Susan is the Pacific Regional Manager for the SMSRC’s Response and Support Coordination (RSC) program. |
| Delia Pop | Senior Planning Advisor | National Defence | Senior Planning Advisor, RCAF, 3 CSD HQ as well as CEO and Co-Founder of Qdrix, a web-based platform and SAAS providing AI tools for IP. Background in sociology and civil law with a degree from the University of Ottawa and in business analysis with a diploma from Purdue University. Business professional and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in various roles in the public and private sector. Able to build strong working relationships across all levels of business to enable delivery of a world class service. Skilled at business process optimization, in managing projects and teams, ensuring an exceptional service is provided at all times, demonstrating a strong ability to lead through periods of change including significant legislation amendments and new business organizational models. |
| Lindy McQuillan | Director General Audit and Evaluation | Veterans Affairs Canada | Lindy is the Director General of Audit and Evaluation at Veterans Affairs Canada, leading a team that assesses risk management, governance, and program effectiveness to strengthen services for Veterans. Lindy is also pleased to serve as VAC’s first Champion of Values and Ethics, supporting a strong culture of integrity, respect, and ethical leadership across the department. Since 2020, she has also served as the Champion for the National Managers’ Community and co-leads a VAC Managers’ Network, fostering collaboration, professional development, and engagement among managers. |
| Lee-Ann Bacon | Superintendent/Supervisor - Defensice Tactics Delivery Team | Canada Border Services Agency | Lee-Ann Bacon has served with the Canada Border Services Agency for over 22 years, beginning her career as a Border Services Officer at the Port of Queenston, one of Canada’s busiest land ports of entry. She was among the first officers to complete the arming process in 2007 and later became a certified use of force and firearms instructor, deploying to the CBSA College in Rigaud, QC to train recruits and officers nationally. Currently, Lee-Ann supervises the Defensive Tactics Delivery Team, managing approximately 35 instructors. She is an advocate for women in law enforcement and public safety, actively participating in advisory committees and events to empower women in these roles. |
| Katie Moran | Manager | PacifiCan | Katie Moran is the Manager of the Targeted and Time Limited Programs team at Pacific Economic Development Canada. She has 20 years of experience in the federal public service and worked in a variety of positions and departments including the CRA, Passport Canada, IRCC, and ECCC. Katie has extensive experience in Grants and Contributions where she has delivered programs for newcomers settling in Canada, accommodation funding for Indigenous groups, COVID relief funding for small and medium businesses and community infrastructure projects for municipalities. She considers herself to be a lifelong learner and her interests include mental health, career development, coaching and mentoring, and public service innovation. Katie holds a Master in Public Administration from Dalhousie University, a Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia and a BA in English and History from Carleton University. |
| Camille Beausoleil | Executive Director, National Managers Community | Canada School of Public Service | Camille Beausoleil has served as Executive Director of the National Managers’ Community (NMC) since May 2023, advocating for the needs and interests of federal managers. She previously held leadership roles at the Canada School of Public Service, including Assistant Director in the Respectful and Inclusive Workplaces Directorate, and has been with the School since 2018 and previously worked at the Department of Canadian Heritage. Camille joined the federal public service in 2008, holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and HR Management certification, and lives in the National Capital Region. |
| Isa David | Acting Director, Digital Talent Development | Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat | Isa David is a strategic and inclusive leader with over two decades of experience in digital government, learning design, and talent development. As Acting Director of Digital Talent Development at the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat, Isa leads transformative initiatives that shape the future of the federal public service’s digital workforce. Her leadership has been instrumental in the development and implementation of the GC Digital Talent Strategy, the Digital Competencies for All Public Servants, and the IT Community Training and Development Fund, all of which aim to equip public servants with the skills needed to deliver modern, effective services to Canadians.
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| Philippe Harpin | Assistant Director | Canada Revenue Agency | Philippe is a seasoned leader with a proven track record of managing and empowering teams. Over the past six years, he has led multiple workplace investigation units, overseeing teams ranging from 5 to 21 employees. Known for his people-first approach, Philippe is defined by integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement, with a passion for fostering a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace where individuals feel valued and empowered. With more than 25 years of experience in investigations, Philippe has built a career defined by curiosity, rigor, and a commitment to fairness. While his expertise in workplace investigations is extensive, his leadership journey is equally compelling. He began his career in law enforcement before transitioning to the public service, where he progressed from entry-level roles to positions of influence. At the Department of National Defence/Canadian Armed Forces Ombudsman’s Office, he contributed to systemic investigations that improved conditions for employees and military members. He later advanced to the Canadian Human Rights Commission and then Global Affairs Canada as a Values & Ethics Senior Advisor, gaining experience on an international level. In March 2020, Philippe joined the Canada Revenue Agency as Assistant Director of the Discrimination and Harassment Center of Expertise where he led the development of internal investigations capabilities and integrated workplace restoration planning, ensuring that resolution foster healthy organizational cultures. Seeking new challenges, he transitioned to the Internal Affairs Division in December 2023, where they conduct workplace investigations of misconduct, continuing the mission to uphold trust and accountability within CRA. Philippe holds a degree in Business Administration with specializations in Human Resources and Work Psychology. His commitment to leadership excellence is reflected in advanced training, including Informal Conflict Resolution from the Canadian Institute for Conflict Resolution and leadership programs from the Institute of Leadership, and an executive-focused program at Queen’s University. Although he is aiming for a position at the executive level, he always takes time to share his knowledge and experience with future leaders during training or mentoring sessions. |
| Malvika Fragomele | Manager - project management | Canada Revenue Agency | Malvika Fragomele is a public service leader with over 13 years of experience in federal government spanning operations, policy implementation, enterprise-level program delivery and project management. She currently works on excise tax and duty programs, supporting the implementation of legislative and government priorities through collaboration, sound governance, and strategic oversight.
Malvika has led large, diverse teams, managed significant public resources, and advised senior leaders on complex issues in dynamic and high accountability environments. Her career includes experience both in regional operations and at headquarters, giving her a strong perspective on aligning strategy with execution. In addition to her substantive role, she is actively involved in leadership, mentorship initiatives across the public service. She has contributed to and led volunteer networks focused on leadership development, inclusion and employee engagement, helping build stronger, more connected employee – management communities. As a mentor, Malvika brings a clear, practical, outcomes focused approach to leadership. She is passionate about developing future leaders, navigating complexity with confidence, and leading with clarity, integrity, and respect during times of change. |
| Jenny Wang | Manager, Resource Management Unit | Indigenous Services Canada | Jenny Wang began her public service career at PSPC as a FORD candidate in the BC region before moving to Indigenous Services Canada. She brings expertise in financial policy, operational accounts receivable/payable, cabinet submissions, and resource management (FP&A). Jenny is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experiences with others, and looks forward to mentoring youth and early career professionals as they explore opportunities in the federal public service. |
| Raffaela Mandarino | Superintendent | Canada Border Services Agency | Raffaela Mandarino is a Superintendent with the Canada Border Services Agency where she has been employed for 18 years. Superintendent Mandarino was a 2024 recipient of the Emerging Leader Award by the Women’s in Defence and Security Committee. She is actively involved in the roll out of numerous projects and Working Groups actively seeking to address gaps in Policy, Legislation, and Procedure in various areas of the CBSA Commercial Program. Raffaela leads with kindness and is generous with recognition of her staff in the excellent work they do to protect Canadians. She is committed to building the future of Women in Law Enforcement as a role model, and mentor. |
| Tooba Tariq
|
Payment Services Officer | Employment and Social Development Canada | Tooba Tariq is a Payment Services Officer (PSO) at Employment and Social Development Canada. She has over 4 years experience of serving Canadians with regards to delivering the Employment Insurance (EI) program, analyzing and applying the EI Act, and solving client’s enquiries for Regular and Special benefits. As a Peer Mentor, she has mentored 15 PSOs with taking EI calls, approved their transactions, held an open-door policy for questions, provided constructive feedback, and completed forms to document their daily learning. As a team representative for the Social Wellness Committee, she promotes social wellness and engagement by planning activities that are focused on team building activities, monthly contests, and has been the Project Leader for the New Hire Hospitality Project for new hires at the EI, Canada Pension Plan, and Canada Dental Care Plan Call Centres.
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| Sal Paladino | Business Expertise Manager | Employment and Social Development Canada | Sal has been a Business Expertise Manager with Employment Social Development Canada since February 2022. Their current team provides all functions related to Training Delivery and Advice, Guidance, Feedback & Quality for all regions across the country within the Integrated Expertise Network Branch. Sal began their career with the Government of Canada in 1998 as a Support Clerk with the Ontario Region. From there, they transitioned to the Old Age Security program as a Program Officer, progressed to Service Canada Benefits Officer, advanced to Team Leader, and subsequently took on the role of Business Expertise Consultant. Outside of work and in their free time, Sal likes to play and watch sports, especially football and basketball. |
| Racha Younes | A/Manager | Canada Border Services Agency | Racha started her public service career with CBSA in 2007 at the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) in the Southern Ontario Region. During her career, she occupied various positions as a Border Services Officer, Trainer, Superintendent and Acting Chief of Operations at one of the largest border crossings. With her deep interested for Immigration, she completed a Temporary Duty assignment as a visa officer with IRCC to Kingston, Jamaica. Given her extensive experience in CBSA operations, enforcement, immigration and language profile (English, French and Arabic), Racha joined CBSA’s International Network as the Liaison Officer to Rabat, Morocco from where she represented the Agency in eleven countries in Africa and the Middle East (AME) from 2019 to 2023. While overseas, Racha advocated for the Agency’s and GoC interests in pushing the border out, facilitation of genuine travellers and goods, and Canada’s feminist policy. She worked closely with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in representing Canada and delivering training on securing international borders, passenger threat assessment and empowerment of women in law enforcement. During the pandemic, Racha played an instrumental role working on the Emergency Response Team for various missions in the repatriation of thousands of Canadians back home. Upon her reintegration back to Canada, Racha joined the CBSA Refugee Division as the Strategic Advisor to the Director and moved into her current role as the Acting Manager of the Operational Guidance Unit. Racha has an MBA in Strategic Management and enjoys leading teams, driving change and innovation, mentoring, and making a difference every single day. Racha came to Canada when she was a child and takes much pride in her personal, educational and professional achievements. She is married and a mother to three ages 20, 10 and 4 who keep her very busy. Racha loves to travel and explore new places and things. She enjoys giving from the heart, cooking and entertaining. |
| Michel Léger | Manager, Policy (Results and Reporting) | Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency | Michel Léger is a manager in policy (results and reporting) for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. He lives and works in New Brunswick. His experience spans 10 jobs over nearly 17 years with the federal government. He’s worked in policy, program delivery, intergovernmental affairs, and international relations. His contributions helped design and launch nearly 15 new initiatives, several intergovernmental agreements and collaborations, and nearly a decade of public reporting. His academic background is in international public policy, political science and management. Perspectives that may be relevant for young public servants include early career management during periods of cutbacks, progressing in the EC classification, leveraging work experience in job searches, and moving to and from the National Capital Region. |
| Sarah Brickell | Manager, Data Management and Digital Adoption | Financial Consumer Agency of Canada | Sarah Brickell lives in Halifax, NS with her husband and four children. She currently leads the Data Management and Adoption Office at the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada. This month, Sarah celebrates her 22nd year as a public servant, with a diverse career that began on Parliament Hill in 2003. She has extensive experience in business operations and administrative investigations, having held various senior roles at the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner from 2007 to 2018. Sarah holds a Master of Arts in Political Economy and a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Law from Carleton University. In her spare time, she volunteers with several local and national non-profit organizations focused on community-building and moderates the GoC Parents group on Facebook. |
| Jason Fox | Chief of Staff, Financial Sector Policy | Finance Canada |
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| Rochelle Burkowski | Director General | Employment and Social Development Canada | Rochelle began her career with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and Service Canada as a summer student in the Native Internship Program while completing her degree at the University of Regina. She graduated with a combined major in Economics and Business Administration and later became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in 2009. She has since completed a Certificate in Reconciliation Studies from the First Nations University of Canada as well as a Masters Certificate in Indigenous Nation Building through the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy and the First Nations University of Canada. Appointed as ISB Director General in 2023, Rochelle's diverse experiences have prepared her well for this leadership role. She has received several ADM and DM awards for her contributions, including Excellence in Internal Service Delivery and Program Design, and Excellence in Promoting a Healthy and Inclusive Workplace and Advancement of Reconciliation. Rochelle is the Indigenous Perspectives Champion (IPC) for WT, with a focus on empowering Indigenous employees, providing opportunities for development and a voice for the lived experiences, knowledge and perspective each employee brings. In the role of IPC Rochelle has led the creation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA) working group, identifying action items for Service Canada. She led the creation of and continues to support the W-T Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action working group and supports the Indigenous Recruitment, Retention and Advancement (IRRA) Steering Committee, advancing reconciliation through activities, and learning materials. Rochelle is also a Co-Champion for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the region working closely with her colleagues and the Centre of Expertise for Diversity and Inclusion in WT, which has led initiatives such as the Pronouns Matter pilot and currently the focus on the Black Centric Lens.
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| Jeff Reader | Area Superintendent | Parks Canada | Jeffrey Reader currently serves as the Area Superintendent with Parks Canada’s Nunavut Field Unit, based in Iqaluit. In this role, he leads the management and delivery of operations, programs, and services at both Sirmilik National Park and Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area, ensuring the protection of Arctic ecosystems and fostering meaningful relationships with Indigenous and local communities. With a strong foundation in federal public service, Jeffrey brings a wealth of experience from roles at Fisheries and Oceans Canada—where he held positions in Maritimes and Pacific regions including Aquatic Science Biologist, Senior Management Advisor, and Resource Management Section Head. His interdisciplinary background in environmental science and resource management has shaped a holistic and evidence-based approach to conservation and policy development. |
| Natasha Cote-Khan | Director Digital Services of HR | Public Services and Procurement Canada | Natasha Côté-Khan is a senior leader in digital service design and transformation within Canada’s federal public service. She currently leads HR design and innovation initiatives at Public Services and Procurement Canada, where her work focuses on improving how people experience complex systems through user-centred design, data, and responsible use of emerging technologies, including AI. Alongside her public service role, Natasha is a part-time professor in User Experience Design, where she teaches practical, real-world approaches to research, design, and service delivery. Her career path has spanned multiple roles and levels, giving her a grounded perspective on navigating growth, career pivots, and leadership without taking a traditional or linear route. Natasha is passionate about mentorship, especially helping people translate their skills into meaningful careers, build confidence in their professional voice, and make intentional career decisions.
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| Roger Leroux | Manager | Employment and Social Development Canada | Roger Leroux is a Manager with Benefits Delivery Modernization (BDM). Working with the OAS Technology Enablement Team, he is helping deliver the migration of legacy systems onto the Cúram platform. He joined the team in October 2023. Prior to joining BDM, Roger was a Service Manager with the Employment Insurance Call Centre based out of Harbour Centre in Vancouver, BC. He supported the needs of five team leaders and their sixty call centre officers engaged in providing an essential service to Canadians from coast to coast. Roger recently celebrated twelve years with the public service and has been a noteworthy leader within the organization from day one. He began with Statistics Canada after the 2011 Census leading a distributed team of field interviewers. In April 2013, he joined Service Canada's Employer Contact Centre before moving to Employment Insurance as a Benefits Officer in March 2015. After specializing in complex adjudications, he moved to Business Expertise in April 2017. Seeking a leadership challenge, Roger returned Statistics Canada for the 2021 Census. His team of ten crew leaders and their 170 staff enumerated over 125,000 dwellings in a 6000 sq. km. area of coastal British Columbia – all during the Covid-19 pandemic. He briefly joined NHQ with the In Person & Passport Operations and Strategies directorate as a Program Advisor when he received the call to rejoin the W-T Region. Roger is passionate about developing and coaching aspiring leaders in the organization, participates in the Official Languages, Client Experience, and Data communities of practice. He is also the current chair of the Official Languages Committee of the British Columbia Federal Council. He holds a Secret security clearance and has an ECE profile in French. Prior to joining the public service, Roger spent a decade as an IT business analyst for two Fortune 500 companies and a BC provincial health care authority. |
| Amandeep Sangha | Regional Director, Oceans Protection Plan Engagement | Transport Canada | Amandeep Sangha joined Transport Canada, Pacific Region, in March 2023 as the Regional Director of the Oceans Protection Plan Engagement team. With over 25 years in federal public service, Amandeep has had the opportunity to explore over 15 unique roles across six departments and agencies in BC/Pacific Region including: then Citizenship & Immigration Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, Public Health Agency of Canada, BC Federal Council/Pacifican, Public Safety Canada, and Transport Canada. Each role and department helped shape her understanding of public service. From serving on the frontlines of Canada at airports and borders, to responding to migrant vessels off Canada’s coast, to responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, Amandeep has had the privilege of being on the ground when real-world events demanded urgent, human-focused solutions. Her career path has not been linear and she’s happy to share her journey and experiences to help guide others in their own careers. Amandeep is married with two children, ages 14 and 10. She holds a Master’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. |
| Ian Chatwell | Executive Regional Director, Issues and program Management | Transport Canada | Ian Chatwell is the Executive Regional Director, Issues and Program Management at Transport Canada’s Pacific Region, a role he has held since April 2023. He leads coordination of horizontal files and manages complex, cross-cutting issues to support a safe, secure, efficient, and environmentally responsible transportation system. Beginning his career with Transport Canada in 1999, Ian built extensive expertise in environmental stewardship through impact assessments and contaminated sites management. In 2017, he joined the executive cadre as Regional Director, Programs, overseeing diverse portfolios including airport and port operations, environmental programs, and Indigenous relations. Ian holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Land Use and Environmental Studies from the University of Saskatchewan, a Certificate in Public Sector Leadership and Governance from the University of Ottawa, and completed executive training at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. |
| Erin Murray | Policy Advisor, Nature and Climate Capacity Building | Environment and Climate Change Canada | Erin Murray joined Environment and Climate Change Canada as a co-op student in 2022, became full-time in 2023, and now works as a Policy Advisor with the Strategic Environmental and Economic Assessment Secretariat. She focuses on strengthening climate and nature literacy across the federal public service through tools and training. Erin leads the nature literacy file for ECCC and oversaw the development and launch of Halting and Reversing Biodiversity Loss in Canada (CHC112), a first-of-its-kind course now available through the Canada School of Public Service. Developed with the Canadian Wildlife Federation and experts across government and civil society, the course introduces foundational biodiversity concepts, explores how worldviews shape our relationship with nature, and highlights Canada’s National Nature Strategy. Erin’s lived experience—including being diagnosed with ADHD at 26 after years of misdiagnosis and navigating chronic health conditions—fuels her commitment to mental health and disability advocacy. As a speaker with the Federal Speakers Forum on Lived Experience, she creates space for honest conversations and champions supportive, inclusive workplaces. |
| Josee Curry | Manager | Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada | Josee Curry has an extensive history of working in communications, parliamentary and legislative affairs. She began her career as a reporter for CBC radio after completing a master’s degree in journalism at Carleton University in 1999. She worked in Quebec City, Yellowknife, Inuvik, Corner Brook, and in St. Johns, and ended her reporting career in Ottawa where she created a one-year contract to produce national stories on Indigenous and northern affairs. In 2007, Josee began a new career in communications working in Minister’s offices. She worked as press secretary, and after a few years, she was promoted to Director of Parliamentary Affairs at Environment and Climate Change Canada. After working in Minister’s Offices, Josee worked in the private sector for two years, and returned to the Government of Canada, accepting a job as senior parliamentary affairs advisor at Indigenous Services Canada. In 2022, she was provided with the opportunity to manage her own parliamentary affairs team at Canadian Heritage. It is a very busy department, serving five cabinet ministers. In 2024, Josee was offered a promotion to be a legislative manager at CIRNAC. She is responsible to work on legislative, regulatory, and policy initiatives relating to resource management in Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. Some of her key roles consist of drafting bills with legal counsel at the Department of Justice to comply with modern treaties or devolution agreements, such as the Nunavut Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement. |
| Daniel Leppington | Civil Aviation - Technical Team Lead - Airworthiness | Transport Canada | Daniel started in Government as a Civil Aviation Safety Inspector with Transport Canada 8 years ago. Currently he is a Technical Team Lead – Airworthiness and has also been the Regional Manager Standards Coordination for the Prairie Northern Region of Transport. He is a licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer specializing in remote location operations and special purpose aircraft. What he enjoys most at work is problem solving, community building and learning about anything new. In his free time he enjoys adventure travel by motorcycle and overlanding camping in the Rockies and Northern Canada. |
