Susan Szpakowski

Susan Szpakowski is the Orchestrator at How We Thrive, an organization focused on community development and social innovation.13 Her professional background includes:

Career History

• Co-founder of How We Thrive3
• Executive Director of the Authentic Leadership in Action (ALIA) Institute for 10 years2
• Experience in teaching, editing, writing, and organizing events and gatherings3

Role at How We Thrive

As Orchestrator, Susan plays a key role in initiatives like The Narrative Project, which aims to share inspiring stories and connect people across Atlantic Canada and beyond.1 Her work involves:

• Hosting online sessions with 35-60 participants
• Facilitating discussions on themes like arts, food, and community resilience
• Exploring how storytelling can inspire positive change and strengthen relationships

Philosophy and Approach

Susan's approach emphasizes:

• The power of storytelling to build understanding and create possibilities
• Flexibility and adaptability in planning and hosting events
• Creating spaces for people to connect, reflect, and make meaning together
• Valuing inspiration and connection as important outcomes in themselves

Her LinkedIn username is susan-lorraine-szpakowski-0a6749a.3