A Transformative Leadership Experience at the CICan Institute

In this testimonial, Luis Ernesto Pardo Lopez, French instructor at Collège Nordique, shares his enriching experience at CICan’s Leadership Institute.

From June 22 to 27, 2025, I had the privilege of participating in the Leadership Institute for Future College Leaders, organized by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) in Prince Edward Island. This immersive training brought together professionals from across Canada’s college sector. Together, we explored the many facets of leadership through dynamic workshops focused on governance, inclusion, innovation, change management, and communication.

The Institute allowed me to strengthen key competencies while engaging in deep reflection on the challenges facing postsecondary education. I found a stimulating environment to better understand the forces shaping our sector and to develop practical tools for contributing to the strategic vision of Collège Nordique.

Beyond the formal learning, it was the human connections that left the biggest impact. The conversations, teamwork, and diversity of perspectives helped enrich my understanding of what it means to be a leader. The principles of inclusive leadership, for instance, gave me tangible ways to foster team cohesion and recognize the value of every voice. Reflections on authenticity and human-centered leadership encouraged me to adopt an approach that is more responsive to the needs of those around me.

I also gained valuable insight into strategies for navigating delicate transitions—especially the shift from peer to manager. These tools will be useful not only as my career evolves, but also in how I help guide change within my workplace.

Throughout the experience, I practiced essential soft skills that I already apply in my day-to-day work: active listening, collaboration, authentic communication, and inclusive thinking. Strengthened in a new context, these skills have helped me grow and return more confident, better equipped to contribute to the mission of Collège Nordique with commitment and vision.

About the author

Luis Ernesto Pardo Lopez is a French instructor at Collège Nordique. He believes that knowledge is truly mastered when shared with others—a philosophy that fuels his passion for teaching. Holding a master’s degree in strategic project management, he continued his academic journey at Université Laval before arriving in Yellowknife in March 2025. A lover of travel, gastronomy, trivia competitions, and scuba diving, he nurtures his curiosity in all areas of life.