Universities Canada

Universities Canada is a membership organization providing universities with a unified voice for higher education, research and innovation. Universities Canada advances the mission of their member institutions to transform lives, strengthen communities and find solutions to the most pressing challenges facing our world.

THE CHALLENGE

Universities Canada was actively delivering its Global Skills Opportunity (GSO) Ambassador Program, which engaged 14 student ambassadors from universities and colleges across Canada to promote international learning experiences.

With the program in motion, they reached out to shiftED to strengthen the ambassadors’ public speaking and storytelling abilities to prepare them to share the impact of the GSO program through outreach, presentations to government officials, and national events.

THE SOLUTION

shiftED Academy created a bespoke virtual workshop designed to break through personal and professional barriers while building core communication skills. The workshop focused on best practices for pitching, storytelling, and speaking effectively to audiences of decision-makers.

Each ambassador received one-on-one coaching designed to strengthen their ability to apply new skills in real-world contexts. This personalized support deepened their confidence and prepared them to represent the GSO program across diverse platforms, while equipping them with transferable communication and leadership skills to engage effectively with any audience.

THE RESULT

Participants were provided with tools to quiet their inner critic and manage their barriers. The ambassadors presented 'up' to their audiences of decision-makers confidently and captivated them with storytelling. Incorporating best practices for pitching and presenting also helped them to stand out as emerging leaders. Following their presentations, one participant was asked to provide their very first keynote and, subsequent to that, invited for a second.