Leadership Vancouver Island: Strengthening Communities Through Leadership and Connection

LVI's new Co-Chairs, Rosalee Brown (left) and Samantha Hackett (right)

The Leadership Vancouver Island (LVI) West Coast Chapter is a dynamic place-based leadership experience coordinated by the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT) in partnership with Vancouver Island University (VIU) and is helping shape the next generation of leaders across the west coast.

Since launching in 2012, the program has welcomed more than 100 graduates who continue to lead and contribute in communities across the region in local government, business, culture, non-profits, education, environmental stewardship, health, tourism, and community development.

What makes LVI unique is its immersive, place-based approach to learning. Students travel to the rural and remote communities of the west coast, including the territories of hiškʷiiʔatḥ (Hesquiaht First Nation), ʕaaḥuusʔatḥ (Ahousaht), ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation), Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ Government (Ucluelet First Nation), and tukʷaaʔatḥ (Toquaht Nation), and the Districts of Tofino, Ucluelet, and Area C of the Alberni Clayoquot Regional District. Students learn directly from local champions, Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs, elected officials, environmental organizations, and community builders who are creating change on the ground.

From learning about reconciliation and Indigenous governance, to exploring housing, tourism, climate resilience, food security, and community wellbeing, participants gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing coastal communities and the role leadership plays in shaping a more resilient future.

But LVI is about more than professional development. It is about connection.

The program creates a powerful network of people committed to leading with empathy, courage, collaboration, and care for community. Participants often leave the program with lifelong friendships, stronger confidence, expanded perspectives, and a renewed sense of purpose in the places they call home.

This year also marks an exciting new chapter for the program with the announcement of new Co-Chairs Rosalee Brown and Samantha Hackett. Their appointments are especially meaningful because both are alumni of the program, alongside many current board members and staff, a reflection of the program’s lasting impact and the evolution of leadership journeys over time.

“I strongly believe that taking the LVI program is a great way to improve one’s professionalism.  This program helps improve self-esteem and builds confidence, all while visiting and connecting with neighbouring communities. I encourage anyone to embark on this wonderful journey.” – Rosalee Brown, LVI Cochair (Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation Cultural Support worker)

“Leadership on the west coast is deeply rooted in community, relationships, and a sense of responsibility to place. Supporting and mentoring the next generation of leaders is important because strong communities are built when people feel connected, empowered, and inspired to step forward. LVI creates space for those connections and helps people discover the impact they can have close to home.” – Samantha Hackett, LVI Cochair (Tofino Tourism Executive Director)

LVI is designed around the idea of leading self, leading others, and leading community. Seeing former students step into mentorship and governance roles demonstrates the strength of that vision in action.

As the LVI alumni network continues to grow, so does its impact across Vancouver Island communities, strengthening collaboration, inspiring innovation, and building the next generation of community leadership.

Applications are now open for the 2026/27 cohort, and CBT encourages emerging and established leaders from all backgrounds and sectors to apply.

If you are passionate about your community, curious about leadership, and inspired to create meaningful change, this program is for you. Six university credits with VIU are available on completion of the course.

To learn more and submit your application (by August 15th), visit:

Apply Today!