Cultural Leadership: Reflecting Forward with Wise Practices

About the Open Call

Over six days, participants will reflect on their leadership values and experiences while learning alongside a peer cohort of cultural leaders. Participants will be given an opportunity to bring cultural challenges into the room and work through them using wise practice principles. Together, we will delve into areas such as governance, strategic thinking, organizational development, cultural policy and protocols, and community engagement — not as isolated skills, but as interconnected elements of resilient, values-based leadership. Program highlights include Wise Practices Leadership Competencies, Leadership as Practice, Designing for Action: Social Network Mapping, Strategic Thinking in a Changing Sector, Self-inquiry, Reflection, Land-based Deep Listening, Collaborative Decision Making, and Insights from the Inside: Converse with CEOs.

What is Offered

The program fee includes a flexible credit-based meal plan (equivalent to $73 per day), a single bedroom on the Banff Centre campus for the duration of the program, group seminars and workshops with faculty, access to the Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives, and campus facilities including the Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre and Box Office discounts for performances. Funding of up to $2500 is available to support participants.

Requirements

The program is designed for arts and culture professionals working in organizations of any size and across any art form (visual arts, galleries, museums, theatre, dance, opera, film, music and literature). Suited for those looking to build skills to run effective organizations, build healthy and sustainable communities, and drive change. This includes Indigenous, Canadian, and international artists; administrators, managers and directors; policymakers; creative producers; education and engagement specialists; community-based cultural workers in urban and rural settings; and consultants. Applicants must be 18+ and domestic and international applications are welcome.

How to Apply

To apply, complete Step 1: Complete the Online Form. Step 2: Pay your application fee (login with username and password emailed after Step 1). Step 3: Upload your materials, including a two-page resume or C.V., a program-specific questionnaire (written or video submission under five minutes), and complete the Financial Aid question in SlideRoom to be eligible for financial assistance.