As graduation season brings a moment to reflect back and look ahead, we reconnected with several MPPGA alumni to see where their degrees have taken them—and which skills have mattered most along the way. From shaping national education policy to tackling complex social challenges and strengthening Canada’s economic position, their stories highlight the diverse paths graduates are carving out and the impact they’re making across sectors.
Alex Ash, Class of 2019
Strategic Stakeholder Engagement Lead, Department for Education (UK Government)
I work with leaders across the education sector from industry, unions, charities, academia and philanthropy, to ensure expertise is channelled into strategic decision-making. I am excited by this innovative approach to government and the potential my role brings to enable collaboration between government and the sector to deliver positive change for the young people across the country.
Anjana Donakonda, Class of 2025
Senior Policy Consultant, Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan Corporation (LGS), Government of Saskatchewan
I am currently developing an organization-wide program evaluation framework for Responsible Gambling programs across all gaming channels. Addressing complex issues at the intersection of entertainment and social responsibility challenges me to apply both my management and policy expertise to achieve meaningful results.
Mackenzie Edwards, Class of 2023
Senior Consultant, Berlineaton
The most valuable skill in my career has been the ability to both listen and communicate effectively. In my current role, I regularly facilitate workshops with senior executives and organizational leaders. I am often one of the youngest people in the room, but the ability to communicate clearly and with confidence allows me to establish credibility and engage as an equal.
Lauren Hamman, Class of 2018
Associate Director, Signal49 Research
I think it’s important for people to learn how to adapt to change, and think analytically, rationally and critically about the future. This is challenging, particularly in what seems like constant chaos in the world around us. I would say taking time out to stop and think (without the help of AI!) will be an invaluable skill moving forward. It sounds simple, but it’s harder than expected, and it pays dividends.
Christopher Stoicheff, Class of 2020
Director of Government Relations, Trans Mountain Corporation (TMC)
I do government relations for a strategic Canadian Asset, the only sovereign bitumen pipeline that provides access for producers to the Pacific Coast. Without this pipeline, Canada is primarily dependent on the US Gulf Coast for access to tidewater. It excites me to contribute to Canada’s geopolitical strength and security and to provide significant public revenue in return that supports essential public services for Canadians.
