Virtual event
How to Use Data to Tell Better Stories
Exclusively for public servants and policymakers
Thursday, Aug 7, 2025
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At this event, you’ll:
- Understand the principles of effective data storytelling in the public sector
- Learn techniques to transform complex data into compelling narratives
- Explore useful tools and best practices to make impactful data visualisations
Speakers
What to do next
- Catch up on the 8-minute highlights above, or dive into the full recording
- Join the Data Skills Network
- Check out our upcoming event How to Solve Complex Policy Problems
Resources
Join the Data Skills Network
The Data Skills Network is an online space where you can build your data skills through connection and conversation with your peers across government. Use it to share tips, resources and best practice.
Event Description
In a world inundated with data, the true challenge lies not in collecting insights but in how to communicate clearly about them. It’s not enough to show the data — you need to shape it into a story that resonates.
This masterclass explores the two core pillars of effective data storytelling: visualisation and narrative. You'll learn how to design visuals that clarify, not confuse, and how to craft stories that move beyond charts to engage, persuade and drive public impact.
Led by experts in government data communication, the session offers practical tools and techniques to help you level up your approach — whether you’re updating a community, pitching a policy, or reporting on performance.
Interested in how Apolitical can support you and your organisation? Learn about collaborating with us.
Image Credit: unsplash
Speakers
Anil Arora
Adjunct Lecturer in Public Policy, Harvard Kennedy School & former Chief Statistician of Canada
Canada
Anil Arora, has dedicated his professional career to partnering with the business sector, academia, internationally and with all three levels of government, building a culture of innovation, successfully delivering complex and transformational digital solutions, strengthened consumer and citizen trust, and increased organizational relevance and impact. Anil was appointed as the Chief Statistician of Canada in September 2016, overseeing the country’s preeminent data agency, where he led modernizing its digital governance, technical and data infrastructure. He co-authored and helped steer the Government of Canada’s data strategy. With significant experience in the private and public sectors, as well as leading influential international forums in the OECD and the United Nations, Anil has helped shape the data and digital landscape domestically and globally. He currently provides consultative services globally with the World Bank, helping countries build robust data and digital strategies. Anil has advised CEO’s, Prime Ministers, Cabinet Ministers, Premiers, Deputy Ministers, and led Business Missions internationally. Anil has authored several papers, is a regular keynote speaker and lecturer, and a sought-after thought leader. He is an adjunct lecturer at Harvard Kennedy School, teaching digital governance and leadership in the public sector and a board member of CIGI. Anil has led large and complex organizations with multi-billion dollar budgets and tens of thousands of employees. Anil’s leadership spans senior strategic, science, policy, program delivery and regulatory roles in the oil and gas sector, mining and critical minerals, forestry, nuclear, public health, drug safety, food, medical devices, and natural health products. Anil has earned numerous accolades, including being named Outstanding Innovator (2023), One of the Top 25 Immigrants in Canada (2022), Policy Maker (2022), as well as receiving several Leadership Awards by the Business Community, the Public Policy Forum, and the Association of Professional Executives of the Public Service of Canada (2009-2025).
