Making Waves

Krista Pawley, Co-founder, Wavemakers

Welcome to this special issue of Disruption magazine! Disruption is known for encouraging meaningful conversations about how we might leverage technologies to take on big challenges of today and find solutions for tomorrow. That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce you to the Wavemakers Network and share with you the stories of Canadians who are tackling some of the big questions of our time—reimagining how we approach learning, transforming the future of work, and creating true inclusion and belonging by celebrating and embracing the diversity that exists among us. 

The Wavemakers program is a first-of-its-kind work-integrated learning program that leverages cutting-edge, accessible virtual reality technology and forward-thinking speakers. Wavemakers provides post-secondary students from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives with the opportunity to come together, develop and cultivate future-proof skills, and build long-lasting connections with industry leaders, to help their transition into the workplace. It’s about providing meaningful opportunities to a diverse community of future leaders who can tackle today’s big challenges with even bigger and bolder ideas that will carry us into a more positive and inclusive tomorrow. 

Just like a wave, the Wavemakers program is starting small, but the ripples created by this community of students, mentors, and partners will build, transforming into a powerful momentum that can drive change and make a significant impact all across Canada. Wavemakers’ partner organizations are thinking about how they want to build the workforce and approach diversity and inclusion in new ways, and how to best support post-secondary students as they navigate the next step in their professional journey. Wavemakers’ mentors are advocates of lifelong learning, working with students and colleagues to bring an authentic sense of belonging into the workplace. Wavemakers’ government partners and policymakers are thinking about new approaches to the future of learning and work, with the goal of creating an economy that recognizes the diversity of Canada’s population as the nation’s most valuable asset. Wavemakers is designed to catalyse the full potential of all Canadians.  

If we can be brave enough to have conversations and take on challenges related to diversity, inclusion, and innovation, we can create a wave of positive change that washes over Canada and leaves no one behind. The result for individuals, organizations, communities, and for the future of this country is going to be phenomenal. Consider this your invitation to connect with me and become part of the Wavemarkers program: no matter who you are or where you are from, you belong here. Join us in creating better learning spaces, workplaces and, ultimately, futures for everyone.