From Strategy to Impact: Galena Cunningham’s Executive Education Experience in Canada

Through the Macedonia2025 Executive Education Program in Canada, talented Macedonian professionals gain access to world-class executive education and meaningful exposure to the North American business environment.

Participants can attend either the Leadership Program or the Strategic Execution Program at Smith School of Business, Queen’s University. The academic experience is complemented by opportunities to connect with accomplished professionals and members of the Macedonian community in Canada.

From November 3 to 7, 2025, Galena Cunningham, Senior Associate for International Relations at Macedonia2025, participated in the intensive five-day Strategic Execution Program at Smith School of Business in Kingston, Canada. In this interview, she reflects on the knowledge, professional connections and inspiration gained from an experience that exceeded her expectations.

How would you describe your experience at Smith School of Business?

Thanks to Macedonia2025, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Strategic Execution Program at Smith School of Business, Queen’s University.

Designed to strengthen leadership, strategic thinking and execution capabilities, the program exceeded all my expectations. The intensive week brought together 28 participants in a highly interactive and collaborative learning environment.

Despite the demanding schedule, the days passed effortlessly because every session was engaging, relevant and valuable.

What were the main topics covered during the program?

The sessions explored strategic planning, decision-making, strategy integration and execution. 

Exceptional professors guided us through practical and thought-provoking discussions closely connected to real organizational challenges. The program did not focus only on developing strategies, but also on the processes, decisions and alignment required to translate them into action.

This combination of academic knowledge and practical application made the experience particularly valuable.

What made the learning environment so engaging?

A strong spirit of interaction and collaboration was present throughout the week. Participants were encouraged to exchange ideas, share professional experiences and examine strategic challenges from different perspectives. Learning therefore extended beyond the formal course content and included insights from professionals working across different sectors and organizations.

The diversity of experiences in the room enriched every discussion and created an environment in which participants could challenge their thinking and learn from one another.

What was one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience?

Beyond the classroom, one of the most rewarding aspects was the opportunity to connect with inspiring leaders from Canada’s private and public sectors. The exchange of ideas, experiences and perspectives was invaluable. These conversations offered new insights into leadership, decision-making and organizational development, while also creating opportunities to present Macedonia2025 and its mission.

Many of the relationships established during the program have the potential to develop into future collaborations that can contribute to Macedonia’s economic growth and strengthen its visibility on the global stage.

Was there a particular moment that made the experience especially memorable?

One of my favorite moments happened in the heart of Queen’s University, when Macedonian music began to play.

That moment created a wonderful opportunity to share stories about our beautiful country and the mission of Macedonia2025. By the end of the evening, many fellow participants were already talking about visiting Macedonia.

It was a small but meaningful reminder of how personal connections, authentic conversations and shared cultural moments can help promote our country around the world.

What did reconnecting with Professor Goce Andrevski mean to you?

Reconnecting with Professor Goce Andrevski, a fellow Macedonian and distinguished faculty member at Smith School of Business, was another special highlight. His exceptional hospitality immediately created a sense of being at home. Throughout the week, he generously offered valuable advice, encouragement and support. The opportunity to reconnect with an accomplished Macedonian professional at such a respected international institution made the experience even more meaningful.

How important was the support you received throughout the journey?

The support provided throughout the entire process was extremely important.

Special gratitude goes to my dear colleague Nena Manchev for her help, encouragement and dedication. Her support throughout the journey meant a great deal to me and contributed significantly to the overall experience.

Behind every international program of this kind lies extensive preparation and coordination, and that support made it possible to focus fully on learning, networking and making the most of every opportunity.

How will this experience contribute to your work at Macedonia2025?

The knowledge, professional connections and inspiration gained during the program will remain valuable for years to come. These insights will be brought back to Macedonia and applied in support of Macedonia2025’s mission to advance economic growth, strengthen leadership and enhance Macedonia’s global competitiveness.

The program also reinforced the importance of strategic thinking, effective execution and strong international partnerships in achieving meaningful and sustainable results.

What made the program more than a traditional executive education course?

Its value extended far beyond the classroom. Alongside the academic knowledge, the program provided opportunities to build meaningful professional relationships, exchange ideas with inspiring leaders and represent Macedonia within an international environment.

The combination of learning, networking and cultural exchange made the experience truly transformative. It strengthened both professional capabilities and the motivation to use those capabilities in support of Macedonia2025’s mission and Macedonia’s continued development.

The Macedonia2025 Executive Education Program in Canada supports the development of talented Macedonian professionals by providing access to leading executive education courses at Smith School of Business, Queen’s University, as well as opportunities to connect with Canadian institutions, professionals and members of the Macedonian diaspora.

Through its Leadership and Strategic Execution learning pathways, the program strengthens participants’ leadership and strategic capabilities, expands their international professional networks and equips them with knowledge and experiences they can apply within their organizations and communities in Macedonia.