ABOUT
The Leadership Development Series is a National Program!
With the support of the Canada Media Fund, we’re inviting individuals from across Canada’s screen-based media industry to apply for this unique opportunity to develop their leadership potential.
And the best part? This program is completely free for all participants. Financial assistance is available for participants travelling from outside Ontario. For participants based in Ontario but outside the Greater Toronto Area, financial assistance will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Space is limited to 12 participants. Non-members are also welcome to apply.
This four-day, career-building program focuses on developing personal leadership skills as opposed to the “business” of a job. What does leadership mean? What experiences, skills, and attributes make a great leader? This program helps participants build the confidence and skills needed to transition into a leadership role.
Participants will leave with a personal leadership canvas to help define their leadership goals and approach, practical tools to strengthen their professional identity, and a peer accountability community to support continued growth beyond the program.
ELIGIBILITY
This program is geared toward mid-level media professionals as well as those re-entering the work force or looking to transition within the industry into management.
Target participants include: Junior Series Producer, Line Producer, Story Editor, Showrunner, and those looking to move into Executive Producer or Broadcast Executive roles.
NOTE: While the program focuses on building skills and confidence for women, non-binary, and other equity-seeking participants, people of all genders are welcome to apply.
Those looking to apply for our Executive Leadership in Media Certificate Program will find this series a terrific introduction.
Questions about whether or not this series is for you? Email Jody Anderson, Programs and Special Events Coordinator.
DATES
Applications Open: September 28, 2026
Applications Close: October 25, 2026
Program Runs: December 8 - 11, 2026 (inclusive) in Toronto
FEES
Thanks to financial support from the Canada Media Fund, this program is completely FREE.
2026 SESSIONS
*Instructors and Guest Speakers to be confirmed.
Session One
The Essential Foundations of Leadership
- What do we mean when we say “leadership”?
- What are the characteristics of a successful leader?
- Understanding who you are, and who you want to become
- How do you see yourself within the greater industry landscape? What do you bring to the table?
- Identifying your strengths and challenges
- How can you leverage your strengths and build on areas for growth?
- What is your management style and how does it serve you?
- Developing foundational management skills
- Understanding your motivation: What drives you, and how does it serve you?
- Identifying and overcoming obstacles that may be holding you back
Session Two
Growth Strategies and Team Building
- Developing critical and strategic thinking skills in both big and small scenarios
- Building a personal strategy to move your career forward
- Understanding the importance and power of networking (Part 1)
- Leading across departments with different priorities and working styles
- Managing effectively up, down, and across the organizational structure
- Understanding the difference between personal goals and a leadership vision
- Crafting your personal leadership vision
- Understanding imposter syndrome and developing strategies to overcome it
Session Three
Communications, and How Your Technique Serves You
- Making a powerful impression in every interaction
- Carrying yourself with authority
- Delivering consistent messaging
- Understanding the principle: “Clear is kind.”
- Keeping your communications focused and on point
- Giving and receiving constructive feedback
- Asking for what you need
- Exploring more soft skills
- Developing your leadership presence as second nature
- The impact of your verbal skills and how to focus them for success
- The impact of your written skills and how to focus them for success
- Understanding the impact of your verbal and written communication and using it effectively
Session Four
Moving Yourself Forward
- How to best handle an interview
- Understanding the characteristics of an impressive resume
- Preparing and delivering your personal elevator pitch
- Learning how to negotiate for yourself and others
- Understanding contract and salary negotiations
- Developing conflict-resolution skills
- The importance and power of networking (part 2)
- Learning how to thrive in an organization
- Avoiding leadership “blind spots”
- Understanding how to use motivation to lead others
- Exploring the differences of executive leadership