Sarnia, ON – To support economic growth and inclusivity in the region, the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) is pleased to announce the launch of the Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Leadership Academy. This free, self-paced, interactive training program will be available to organizations operating in Sarnia-Lambton, offering practical tools to help strengthen the local workforce and create welcoming workspaces.
IDEA Leadership Academy will equip local businesses and organizations with the skills to embed inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility within their operational frameworks. Matthew Slotwinski, CEO of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, highlighted the crucial importance of the program in the region’s overall economic development, “The IDEA Leadership Academy is a significant step towards cultivating a more inclusive business environment in Sarnia-Lambton. By investing in IDEA practices, local businesses strengthen their work culture and contribute to our region’s overall economic vitality. A diverse workforce promotes innovation, increases competitiveness, and ensures the long-term sustainability of our economy,” said Slotwinski.
With Sarnia-Lambton’s expected workforce demand of 19,500 people by 2030, programs like IDEA align with local efforts to attract and retain new talent, including immigrants. The Sarnia-Lambton Immigration Task Force, which focuses on attracting and retaining newcomers to address workforce challenges, has identified inclusivity as a key factor in making the region an attractive destination for newcomers. Offering opportunities for cultural competence and leadership development, the certification course serves as an important initiative supporting regional immigration goals.
“The IDEA Leadership Academy will be instrumental in supporting Sarnia-Lambton’s immigration efforts by creating workplaces where everyone feels welcome and valued. A more inclusive and diverse workforce will not only strengthen our communities but will also enhance the attractiveness of Sarnia-Lambton as a destination for new Canadians,” said Judith Morris, Chair of the Sarnia-Lambton Immigration Task Force.
The free, self-paced, 6-hour course includes modules on topics such as building spaces for diversity, attracting and onboarding diverse talent, and sustaining diversity in the workplace. The program is focused on real-world applications and will help businesses meet the growing demand for diverse perspectives and leadership in today’s workforce.
Registration for the free IDEA Leadership Academy training program is available for 100 participants in Lambton County, with a limit of 2 participants per business. To learn more about the program and to register, please visit https://sarnialambton.on.ca/idea-leadership-academy
About the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership:
The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) is the lead economic development agency for the Sarnia-Lambton area. Funded by the County of Lambton, we focus on promoting the distinct advantages Sarnia-Lambton proudly offers companies and residents. By coordinating community-based economic development initiatives and maintaining a commercially attractive environment, we foster new business creation, help ensure that established firms remain and grow here, and work to attract growing businesses to the Sarnia-Lambton area.
For Media Inquiries:
Arianne Garcia
Marketing & Communications Manager
Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership
(519) 332 1820 ext 225
arianne@sarnialambton.on.ca