What is your current position?
Senior Strategy Manager, Public Policy, TELUS
What attracted you to your program of study at the BSIA?
My undergraduate degree was in Global Development Studies and I graduated with a certificate in International Relations, so I have always been passionate about learning and addressing global issues. The opportunity to learn about these complex issues while leveraging an interdisciplinary lens called to me, and the MAGG program was the perfect fit.
What was the most impactful experience you had while completing your graduate degree?
My Master’s degree was an amazing time, not only because of the content of my coursework, but the design of the programs at the BSIA, writ large. From being in classes with students from both the MAGG, MIPP, and PhD programs; being able to meet and speak with thought leaders across various industries; participating in the Graduate Fellowship and presenting in front of Global Affairs Canada, the BSIA set me up for success in a variety of ways. My ability to effectively research complex information and present in front of a variety of audiences were honed through this program.
Tell us about your job, what do you do?
In the Public Policy team, we are responsible for TELUS’ government relations in a variety of jurisdictions. In my role, I lead federal advocacy initiatives with Senators and Members of Parliament, with a focus on in-person engagement with GTA MPs. I largely focus on topics around AI, social purpose, and copper theft. In my job, I’m able to engage with people from different parts of the business, which is an exciting way to be engaged in a variety of files, understanding the different ways telecommunications and connectivity plays a role in the lives of Canadians (which is more than one might think).
In my role at TELUS, I’m proud that I get to focus on advocacy that bridges the gap between government policy and the needs of communities. One initiative I’m particularly proud of is leading outreach for TELUS’ Kits for Kids program. Each year, TELUS donates backpacks filled with school supplies to students in need across Canada, and my job is to bring Members of Parliament into the fold. By strengthening these relationships, we have been able to increase participation year over year, which means thousands more children go to school with the supplies they need to succeed and effectively learn. For me, that project continues to highlight that advocacy isn’t just about legislation or corporate goals, it can also be about making a difference in communities. I’m proud to work at a company that prioritizes corporate citizenship (and I’m not just paid to say that!)
What are the next steps in your career progression… where do you see yourself going?
While both my undergraduate and graduate degrees have been focused on international/global relations, my shift into Canadian policy in my current role has highlighted the importance of flexibility and openness for whatever opportunities are presented to me for my personal and professional progression. I love advocacy and communications, and I would like to continue to develop that in my career, regardless of what my role is. In the next few years, while I don’t have any specific expectations for what my job will be, I know I will continue to learn and challenge myself.
What advice do you have for a potential student looking to complete their degree at the BSIA? Or for someone looking to work in Global Governance and International Policy?
As I mentioned earlier, always be open to new opportunities and challenges. While it’s important to have set goals, it’s also important to be flexible, and so, take advantage of all the experiences that are available through the BSIA. Trying new things, taking courses on a variety of topics, meeting thought leaders on different topics, taking internships in different industries is important in so many ways. Having diverse experiences to levy will only ever be a strength. Every day, I benefit from the experiences I had at the BSIA, even though I do not work in Global Governance or International Policy – but if you do, you’ll have a great advantage.