Empowerment is a Journey
Sharing Experience.
Creating Success.
​Create Your Pathway to Success
About Us
At Municipal Empowerment Strategies,
our mission is to empower elected officials with the knowledge, leadership skills, and strategic tools necessary to effectively serve their communities.
We are committed to fostering integrity, trust, and innovation in municipal governance, ensuring that every leader is equipped to navigate the complexities of public service with confidence and competence.
Through comprehensive education, personalized mentorship, and forward-thinking strategies, we strive to create a foundation for sustainable community development and responsive, transparent leadership.
Our goal is to build resilient, thriving municipalities where empowered leaders can make a lasting, positive impact.
Our Services
Council Orientation
Our Council Orientation service leverages extensive governance experience to empower success through proven, practical knowledge. We build leadership by sharing learned experiences, teaching effective governance practices, and fostering collaborative community building. Our program equips council members with the tools and insights needed for impactful decision-making and strategic planning. By focusing on real-world applications and interactive learning, we ensure participants are prepared to lead with confidence, drive community initiatives, and achieve lasting, positive change. Our commitment is to guide councils in cultivating a culture of cooperation and excellence, ensuring every member is empowered to contribute to their community's success.
Strategic Planning
Our Strategic Planning service combines extensive practical experience and governance expertise to craft actionable plans that propel your municipality toward a dynamic, sustainable future. We specialize in translating visionary goals into practical, achievable steps, ensuring your community thrives. By engaging stakeholders and leveraging deep insights into municipal operations, we build comprehensive strategies tailored to your unique needs. Our approach fosters collaboration, innovation, and resilience, guiding your municipality through effective decision-making and resource allocation. Trust us to deliver strategic plans that are not only visionary but also executable, setting the foundation for long-term success and sustainability for your community.
Community Advocacy
Our Community Advocacy service leverages over 40 years of combined successful elected experience and a profound understanding of politics to empower your leadership. We focus on preparing your council to become the best advocates for their communities at the municipal, provincial, and federal level. Our comprehensive training and support equips them with the skills, strategies, and confidence needed to effectively navigate political landscapes and champion community interests. By fostering strong, informed advocacy, we help your leadership drive positive change, influence policy, and achieve community goals. Trust us to transform your leaders into powerful voices that make a lasting impact for your community.
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​Our Team
Jenelle Saskiw has built a distinguished career in municipal administration, project management, and government relations. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Augustana University. Her career in municipal governance began in the Village of Marwayne, Alberta, where she served as a Councilor, Deputy Mayor, and eventually Mayor from 2004 to 2016. As Mayor, Jenelle led strategic planning for community development and sustainability, overseeing fiscal budgets and fostering partnerships with local, regional, and provincial entities. Jenelle's leadership extended to the Alberta Municipalities, as the Vice President for Villages. She chaired key committees, advocating for urban municipalities and facilitating social and economic growth in Alberta. Her involvement with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities included chairing the Municipal Infrastructure and Transportation Committee, National Rail Safety Working Group, and National Rail Proximity Initiative, representing Alberta’s municipalities on federal policy matters. She worked at Alberta Counsel as a senior associate, developing strategic and government relations plans for various clients. She built relationships with local, provincial, and federal decision-makers, organized meetings, and conducted public consultations and awareness campaigns. She joined the Railway Association of Canada as a Project Manager for the Proximity Initiative, promoting rail safety and acting as the main contact for rail proximity issues across Canada.
Throughout her career, Jenelle has been an active volunteer with numerous community organizations, reflecting her dedication to enhancing community well-being. Her continuous professional development and extensive leadership roles demonstrate her commitment to public service and sustainable development across Canada.
Barry Morishita, a third-generation Japanese Canadian born and raised in Alberta, has dedicated his life to community service and leadership. With a comprehensive education including certificates in Indigenous Canada, Mediation and Conflict Resolution, Leadership, Compassionate Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and Principles of Management from prestigious institutions such as the University of Alberta, ESSEC, Oxford's Said School of Business, MacEwan University, and John Hopkins University, Barry has cultivated a diverse skill set. His career highlights include serving as the Executive Director of the Mid-Saskatchewan Municipal Alliance, Alberta Party Leader, Senior Advisor at Alberta Counsel, and President of Alberta Municipalities. Barry has also held significant roles such as Mayor of the City of Brooks, Councilor, and various board chairmanships, showcasing his extensive experience in municipal governance. His early career saw him as the owner and manager of a small business, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit. Barry's lifelong commitment to public service underscores his dedication to fostering community development and leadership.
