The Social Innovation Lab: A Community Sector Council Initiative
At the Community Sector Council of Newfoundland and Labrador (CSCNL), our mission is to empower and strengthen communities across our province. For years, we've been dedicated to fostering collaboration, innovation, and positive change. Now, we're excited to introduce our latest initiative: the Social Innovation Lab.
This groundbreaking project embodies our commitment to driving social impact and addressing our community’s challenges. Through the Social Innovation Lab, we aim to create a dynamic space where ideas flourish, solutions are born, and transformative change takes root. Join us as we embark on this journey of innovation and collaboration, shaping a brighter future for Newfoundland and Labrador.
Meet the passionate individuals who drive the Social Innovation Lab’s success!
We are a diverse group of dreamers and doers who bring together a wealth of expertise and experiences to deliver innovative solutions for cultivating a thriving and inclusive province that uplifts individuals, families, and communities alike. Our team comprises people championing social and economic well-being by pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Colin
Colin, (CPA, CMA) CEO at CSCNL, is a seasoned social entrepreneur with a diverse background spanning finance, tech, and rural business. He brings invaluable expertise to the table. Beyond his professional achievements, he's a trusted advisor, former mayor, and active community leader. With a passion for social finance and rural connectivity, Colin also shares his knowledge as an instructor and cherishes his role as a family man.
Lindsey (B.B.A), Director of Community Vitality, Innovation & Impact at CSCNL, is a passionate leader dedicated to community empowerment and possibilities. With a B.B.A and extensive experience in civic and social matters, she is skilled in nonprofit organizations, career development, coaching, volunteer management, and public speaking. Lindsey’s work focuses on fostering meaningful connections and driving impactful change within communities.
Lindsey
Mariana
Mariana, (MBA-SEE) Manager of Social Innovation at CSCNL. With a background in biomedical engineering and an MBA in Social Enterprise and Entrepreneurship (MBA-SEE), she prioritizes purpose and human connections in her work. Mariana is dedicated to fostering equitable opportunities through innovation, bringing her expertise to drive positive change within communities.
Andre
Andre (MBA), Social Ventures Senior Associate at CSCNL, spearheads the SETA project. He has a passion for supporting community organizations and entrepreneurs who enact change at the local level. He loves tackling a challenge through collaboration and hands-on learning. Andre draws from his rich experience working in energy, forestry, manufacturing, tech and finance.
Earl
Earl, Senior Research Associate at CSCNL, has a keen eye for detail and a passion for analytics, playing a crucial role in gathering and analyzing data to inform decision-making processes. Earl's expertise in research methodologies and data interpretation ensures our initiatives are grounded in evidence-based practices.
Emmanuel
Emmanuel, (MSc Management) joining the team through the Mitacs Strategic Business Internship, focuses on Organizational and Process Innovation. He is working on the SETA project to transform local private businesses into sustainable social purpose organizations (SPOs). Emmanuel is passionate about coming up with innovative ideas and strategies to address business challenges and bolster local economies while ensuring the continuity of essential community services.
Peli
Peli, Wellness Coordinator at the Social Innovation Lab, brings boundless joy and comfort to our team. With an insatiable love for treats, belly scratches, and chasing squirrels during lakeside walks, Peli embodies the spirit of happiness and relaxation. Always eager to participate in meetings and claim her spot at the table, she radiates peace and love, enriching our work environment with her presence.
Christine
Christine (MBA, Finance), one of the founders of the Social Innovation Lab at CSCNL, dedicated over 40 years to community and economic development. Known for her expertise in youth and seniors engagement, education, business development, and strategic planning, she also drove succession planning and social innovation. Now retired, Christine’s vision and leadership remain a cornerstone of the Lab’s ongoing work in fostering positive change and entrepreneurship.
