Emerging Leaders
The Emerging Leaders Program is a dynamic 18-month leadership development experience designed to equip officers and employees of The Salvation Army with the skills, confidence and network to lead effectively. Grounded in the LEADS leadership framework and aligned with The Salvation Army’s mission, the program fosters leadership growth through peer collaboration, applied learning and structured feedback.
The Emerging Leaders Program is a transformational leadership development journey for officers and employees of The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. Grounded in the LEADS leadership framework and aligned with the mission of The Salvation Army, this program combines in-person and virtual learning, peer collaboration and applied leadership practice. Participants engage in meaningful discussion, receive 360-degree feedback and coaching and complete a project that puts their learning into action—equipping them to lead with confidence, clarity and purpose in their local context and beyond.
Eligibility:
The program is open to people leaders in The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda who have:
- Their supervisor’s approval to participate.
- Completed the Foundational Leadership Certification.
Program Structure
- Program Kickoff – Begin your leadership journey by meeting your session leaders, facilitators and fellow cohort members. This interactive session sets the tone for learning, builds meaningful connections and introduces the structure and goals of the program. You'll get a clear picture of what to expect—and how to make the most of the experience.
- Ongoing Virtual Learning and Peer Discussions – Regular online seminars, coaching sessions and group learning to reinforce leadership concepts.
- LEADS 360 Assessment and Coaching – Receive structured, anonymous feedback from peers, supervisors and reports—supported by personalized coaching.
- Applied Learning Project – Design and implement a real-world leadership project aligned with The Salvation Army’s mission and values.
- Capstone Gathering – An in-person capstone event to share learning and insights and engage in networking and leadership development activities.
Certification and Digital Badge
Upon completing the program, participants will receive an official certification from The Salvation Army in the form of a shareable, verifiable digital badge through Credly.
Program Duration and Delivery
This 18-month program features a blend of self-paced and instructor-led learning experiences. While most of the learning sessions are online, there are opportunities to gather in-person as a cohort.
Cohorts are offered within each division on a rotating basis. We aim to offer opportunities in every division as frequently as possible. To see when the next cohort is scheduled in your area, please visit our [PROGRAM CALENDAR PAGE LINK].
Program Costs
This program is fully funded by Leadership Development as part of The Salvation Army’s investment in growing strong leaders across the territory. All program costs, including travel expenses, are covered by Leadership Development. There is no cost to you or your ministry unit.
Key Benefits
- Develop Practical Leadership Skills: Learn essential tools in goal setting, time management, team building and leading change—skills you can apply right away in your role.
- Grow in Self-Awareness: Gain valuable insights through a LEADS 360 assessment and personalized coaching to better understand your strengths and areas for growth.
- Apply Your Learning: Design and implement a real-world project that makes a meaningful impact in your ministry unit and reflects The Salvation Army’s mission.
- Connect with Leaders Across the Territory: Form lasting connections with peers from other divisions, share experiences and build a network that supports your leadership journey long after the program ends.
Throughout the Emerging Leaders Program, participants explore key leadership topics designed to strengthen their effectiveness and impact:
- Goal Setting – Learn to set clear, actionable goals for yourself and your team.
- Time Management – Develop strategies to manage your workload and priorities.
- Team Building – Build trust, collaboration, and a strong team culture.
- Managing Change – Lead others confidently through times of transition.
- Personal Development Planning – Create a roadmap for your growth as a leader.
- Reflective Practice – Learn to assess your experiences and apply insights moving forward.
- Project Planning and Implementation – Turn ideas into action through real-world application.
- Effective Communication – Strengthen your ability to communicate with clarity and purpose.
- Collaborative Leadership – Work across roles and departments to achieve shared goals.
- Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence – Understand your leadership style and its impact on others.
Enrolment
Ready to take the next step in your leadership journey?
If you meet the eligibility criteria and have your supervisor’s support, we encourage you to apply.
Questions? Reach out to us at leadership.development@salvationarmy.ca — we’re here to help!
Hear from Our Emerging Leaders
Curious about what it’s like to be part of the Emerging Leaders Program? Hear directly from past participants as they share their experiences, insights and how the program has shaped their leadership journey within The Salvation Army.
Go beyond result-driven leadership
Julie Gilfillan, Executive Director at Ridge Meadows Ministries, discusses the impact of the Emerging Leaders program on her self-awareness. It helped her to recognize that there is more to being a leader than achieving results. By engaging others and developing coalitions, Julie has been able to step back and apply leadership theory to her work, making her a more considerate and empathetic leader.
Develop a deeper drive to understand leadership
Dan Donkers, Spiritual Care Coordinator at The Gateway of Hope in Langley, BC, shares his transformative experience with The Salvation Army's Emerging Leaders program. As a relatively new chaplain, Dan talks about the critical shift from “fixing” to “being” with people—a mindset that has enriched his approach to leadership.
Value the life-long pursuit of knowledge
Elena Simanis, Facility Manager at Victoria Sunset Lodge, shares her gratitude for being part of The Salvation Army's Emerging Leaders program. She emphasizes the importance of continual learning and personal growth, which she believes are essential to being an authentic and effective leader. “Never stop learning!” is Elena’s personal credo, and this program has reinforced that belief.
Reflect on your leadership development
Michael Winter, Executive Director at Mount Waddington Community Ministries in Port Hardy, BC, reflects on the profound impact of his experience in The Salvation Army's Emerging Leaders program. This opportunity has allowed Michael to step back and truly assess his personal and professional growth, taking stock of who he is as a leader and the ways he can improve.




