Meet CPKN’s New President – Sonia Poulin

We sat down with CPKN’s third president to learn more about her experience and her priorities for her first 90 days.

1. What inspired you to take on the role of President?

I have dedicated 27 years to the justice sector, and for the past seven years, I have had the privilege of leading an organization that increased legal capability, developed digital solutions, and strengthened justice systems.

Tactically, this has included capacity building, technical assistance, and professional development for police internationally. This work has been the most rewarding and inspiring part of my career, I am thrilled to now embrace it full-time.

On a personal level, I am also a proud mom of an RCMP member serving in the Rocky Mountains—a connection that adds a deeply personal dimension to my passion for this field.

2. What are your top priorities or key goals for the first 90 days of your leadership?

In my first 90 days, my focus will be on learning, listening, and building connections. I will spend most of my time engaging with the Network –  staff, the Board, the National Advisory Committee, and key stakeholders in the policing community across the country.

These connection points will allow me to understand the unique perspectives, priorities, and challenges facing the Network from coast-to-coast. This time will be dedicated to fostering trust, gaining insights, and identifying opportunities to enhance the value we provide to the police community, while advancing CPKN’s mission and impact.

3. As the President of CPKN you will be based in Edmonton. How will you foster strong connections with staff predominantly located in Charlottetown while balancing engagement and representation with the Network that spans nationally?

This is a national organization, and leadership transcends location. I have many years of experience leading diverse teams — in English, en français, y español —and fostering stakeholder relationships across borders.

Initially, I will spend significant time in Charlottetown to build strong relationships with staff, then visit monthly while traveling nationally to engage with the Network. Virtual tools enable seamless collaboration, ensuring consistent connection with staff and stakeholders across Canada. My approach balances in-person and virtual engagement to reflect the organization’s national scope and vision.

4. Given your international experience, how will you leverage this to benefit CPKN and its stakeholders?

My international experience positions me to bring valuable opportunities to CPKN and its stakeholders. Many countries lack an organization like CPKN to address critical training and learning gaps. I believe we have the potential to fill that void by sharing our expertise and resources.

Additionally, there is a significant need and appetite for virtual learning in developing countries where funding is limited. CPKN is well-positioned to meet this demand while building sustainable partnerships.

By facilitating the exchange of ideas and best practices between Canada and other nations, we can enhance collaboration, drive innovation, and solidify CPKN’s role as a global leader in professional learning.

While I’m focused on my transition at the moment and deepening our reach within Canada, I am excited to explore these international opportunities in the future.

5. What are some personal values or philosophies that guide your leadership style?

My leadership is guided by empathy, collaboration, and inclusivity. As a collaborative decision-maker, I prioritize listening to diverse perspectives to build trust and create an environment where everyone feels valued.

I am also committed to fostering innovation and encouraging the exploration of new ideas and approaches to drive progress. By empowering others and cultivating shared ownership, my focus is on inspiring meaningful impact and collective success.

 

6. Can you share a fun fact about yourself that might surprise our members?

I have traveled, volunteered, and worked in over 110 countries, and somehow, drama always follows me—whether it’s being stranded with borders shutting down, dealing with delayed luggage, or ending up in headline-worthy events. I encourage you to ask me about some of these tales when we have a chance to meet, I definitely do not have a boring life!