Virtual event
How to Prepare for Promotion in 2026
Exclusively for public servants and policymakers
Thursday, Jan 8, 2026
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Speakers
What to do next
- Catch up on the 5-minute highlights above, or dive into the full recording
- Join the Career Development Community
- Check out our upcoming event Stakeholder Management 101
Resources
Join the Career Development Community
The Career Development Community is a space to explore how to navigate, grow and thrive in your public service career.
Event Description
You’ve been doing the work, showing up and delivering results. Now it’s time to make your case for promotion.
Getting promoted isn’t just about ticking the boxes. In public service, progression often depends on more than performance alone. It requires knowing how to make your work visible, aligning with your organisation’s priorities, building trust across teams and speaking confidently about your impact. Whether you're aiming to lead a team, shift into a new role or simply stop being overlooked, now is the time to act. This session explores the real levers of career growth in government and helps you take charge of your next move. Let’s set bold New Year goals and make 2026 count.
You’ll hear from senior public servants, HR leaders and professionals who’ve successfully navigated promotion pathways. Come for the honest insights, stay for the practical tools and leave with a fresh sense of purpose.
Interested in how Apolitical can support you and your organisation? Learn about collaborating with us.
Image Credit: unsplash
Speakers
Shabana Ansari
Senior Policy Analyst, Employment and Social Development Canada
Canada
Afsheen Iftikhar
Regional Head of Human Resources (PAK & IND), WestPoint Home Pakistan
Pakistan
Andrew R. Abela PHD
Assistant director, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Government of Canada
Canada
Shabana Ansari, has worked in journalism, communications, and public relations in three countries across three continents. As a supporter of accessibility, equity, and social justice, she currently holds a role that focuses on disability inclusion in the Canadian federal service.
Afsheen Iftikhar, a results-driven dedicated leader committed to driving positive change. She brings a wealth of experience in HR leadership roles across diverse industries. She is a certified DE&I expert with a belief in creating inclusive workplaces. She excels in building high-performing teams and driving organisational growth.
Andrew R. Abela PHD, is a 'retired' neuroscientist and former consultant who transitioned into public service to apply his research expertise to help improve how government works for people. He is passionate about evidence-based decision-making, supporting employee growth, and improving services for Canadians. Andrew has worked as a senior advisor, researcher, manager and director leading a variety of initiatives across the Government of Canada, including pandemic response work in the Public Health Agency of Canada and Privy Council Office, service-focused research at Service Canada, and client experience research at Immigrations, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Outside of work, he enjoys strategy games, running, animals, horror/thriller films, and—above all—spending time with his daughter.
