Welcome to rabble.ca's extended series on the Canadian left -- Reinventing democracy, reclaiming the commons: A progressive dialogue on the future of Canada -- a look at where it stands after the 2011 federal election, and what the future can hold. The series will run in this, rabble.ca's 10th year, and is curated by journalist Murray Dobbin.

When thinking about Canada's current political reality, I think about the importance of leadership in social change work. To explain what I mean, I'll share with you a bit about my own leadership journey and the development of a program that is focused on supporting young leaders committed to social and environmental justice.