December 8, 2025
Who says municipal leadership cannot be exciting? Cohort 22 just proved that it absolutely can
The graduation of the NextGen Municipal Leadership Certificate Cohort 22 on Dec. 4 marked the end of an energizing journey for 14 leaders representing six municipalities: City of Guelph, Town of Grimsby, City of Welland, Niagara Region, City of Niagara Falls and City of Port Colborne.
Over ten weeks, participants gained new skills, built meaningful relationships and discovered what it truly means to lead with clarity and purpose in the ever changing municipal environment. Each week brought a new challenge and a new opportunity to grow. Participants explored leadership development through topics such as equity, diversity and inclusion, artificial intelligence in the public sector, coaching and communication, staff and council relationships, leading in a unionized environment, municipal planning and execution, leading change, the dynamics of high performing teams, HR and more. The blend of practical tools, computer-based simulations, reflective activities and real-world municipal scenarios allowed participants to connect every lesson to the work they do every day.
“The NextGen Municipal Leadership course has been an incredible experience,” said Kaitlyn Grant, participant from the City of Guelph. “I have learned so much, practical tools, new perspectives, leadership strategies and also about myself. I am genuinely excited to bring all this back to Guelph. The professors have been outstanding. Their knowledge, passion and support pushed all of us to think differently and to grow, which I think is truly a testament to our leaders.”
The success of Cohort 22 reflects a collective effort: the dedication of participants, the guidance of our advisory committee, the expertise of our award-winning instructors and the support of our Goodman Group team. Together, we created an experience that was challenging, energizing and transformative.
Congratulations to Cohort 22! Your communities are fortunate to have leaders prepared to think strategically, act decisively and inspire others along the way.
Inspired by their journey? Cohort 23 is coming soon. Your leadership story could begin here. Please visit our program’s webpage to learn more or contact us at [email protected] to learn more.
