MAX Executive Leadership Series (ELS)

Empowering professionals to rise into executive leadership.

The MAX Executive Leadership Series (ELS) is a flagship professional development initiative under MAX – Muslims Achieving Excellence.

Created in partnership with leading industry experts, the program equips high-potential professionals with the knowledge, mentorship, and network needed to advance into senior and C-suite roles.

Through a series of interactive, high-impact modules, participants gain access to executive-level insights, hands-on learning, and opportunities to build meaningful connections across industries.

2025 Program Themes:

  • Executive Communication & Presence
  • Managing Your Brand
  • Managing Stakeholders (Upwards & Downwards)
  • Building Teams
  • Establishing Your Network
  • The Art of Persuasion

Each session blends expert-led learning, executive panels, and structured networking, helping participants strengthen their leadership presence and expand their influence.

Vision:
To enable Muslim and visible minority professionals to break the glass ceiling by providing them with the training, mentorship, and executive network needed to reach the C-suite—and lead with confidence, authenticity, and purpose while building a more inclusive Canadian leadership landscape.

Who Should Apply (Eligibility Criteria)

The Executive Leadership Series is designed for:

  • C-suite –1 to –3 level professionals (Directors, Senior Directors, Vice Presidents, Senior Vice Presidents)
  • Professionals from the technology industry seeking to strengthen executive leadership capabilities
  • Individuals based in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) willing to attend in-person sessions
  • Leaders with a demonstrated track record of performance, commitment to growth, and community impact

Applicants should ideally have 12+ years of professional experience and be preparing for or transitioning into executive leadership roles.

 

Leadership Insights from the Panel

Each module of the Executive Leadership Series features distinguished panelists and executive speakers who share candid reflections on leadership, growth, and navigating complex organizational challenges. These sessions provide participants with practical insights, personal stories, and actionable advice from leaders who have excelled in their fields.

Past Executive Speakers include:

  • Walied Soliman, Global Chair, Norton Rose Fulbright
  • Salma Salman, CFO, TD AMCB
  • Danish Yusuf, CEO, Zensurance
  • Rizwan Khalfan, EVP, Chief Digital and Payments Officer, TD Bank Group
  • Uzair Hussain, Head of Banking and Advisory, Microsoft
  • Sulemaan Ahmed, Principal, Servo Annex
  • Kashif Saya, Managing Director, Structured Solutions, National Bank
  • Seema Hashmi, Vice President, GTA Commercial Banking, TD Bank Group

These leaders exemplify excellence and integrity at the highest levels of corporate leadership, offering invaluable mentorship and inspiration to every cohort.

Program Format

The program runs across four- six modules between April and October, featuring:

  • Educational segments led by senior leaders and industry experts
  • Executive panels and fireside chats exploring real-world leadership challenges
  • Networking opportunities to build cross-industry relationships
  • Action-based takeaways to apply learnings within participants’ professional environments

Each session runs approximately 3–4 hours and is hosted at premier venues in downtown Toronto, in collaboration with corporate sponsors such as PwC.

Submit your application here

Application & Intake Process

  1. Application Submission:
    Submit an online application through creating a profile on MAX Aspire and highlighting leadership experience, career goals, and motivation to join the program.
  2. Interview & Selection:
    Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview with the MAX ELS Selection Committee to assess program fit and readiness.
  3. Notification of Acceptance:
    Selected participants receive confirmation and onboarding details.
  4. Cohort Onboarding:
    The program kicks off with an in-person Onboarding & Networking Dinner, connecting participants with peers, mentors, and sponsors.

Applications typically open towards the end of the calendar year, and the program commences in April.

Key Program Outcomes

By the end of the series, participants will:

  • Strengthen their executive communication, decision-making, and leadership presence
  • Build meaningful networks with senior leaders and peers across industries
  • Gain clarity and confidence to pursue executive-level opportunities
  • Develop actionable strategies for influence, brand, and career growth
  • Contribute to an expanding community of Muslim leaders excelling across sectors

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Is there a cost to participate in the program?
    Yes, there is a fee associated with taking part in the program. The fee is mentioned in the intake form when the application is live. Selected participants are expected to commit their time and engagement throughout the series.
  2. How selective is the program?
    Admission is competitive. Each year, the program receives over 40 applications, with approximately 25 participants selected.
  3. Does the selection criteria cater to a specific industry?
    Yes. The 2025 cohort focused on financial services and the 2026 program is focused on the Technology industry.
  4. Is attendance mandatory for all sessions?
    Yes. Each session builds upon the previous one, and full participation ensures maximum benefit and engagement within the cohort.
  5. Can I attend virtually?
    The 2026 series is entirely in-person, held in the GTA. There are no virtual attendance options.
  6. Who facilitates the sessions?
    Sessions are co-hosted by industry executives and sponsor partners, combining academic and practical perspectives.
  7. How can my organization get involved as a sponsor or partner?
    MAX welcomes partnerships aligned with our mission of empowering professionals. Sponsors can engage through speaking opportunities, hosting sessions, or supporting participant experiences.
    For inquiries, please contact contact@onemax.org.

Connect with Us

To apply to the program, please visit the communities section on MAX Aspire to submit your application. To learn more about the MAX Executive Leadership Series email us at contact@onemax.org.

Submit your application here