Packa Antovska – From Strategy to Innovation: My Journey Through the Executive Education Program in Canada
Participating in this year’s Executive Education program in Canada has been an exciting and enriching journey. This program included a comprehensive five-day course on strategy execution, held from November 11 to 15 at the prestigious Smith School of Business at Queen’s University, located in the charming town of Kingston.
The course focused on strategic planning, organizational integration, process prioritization, and strategic decision-making. Each topic was explored in depth through practical examples and dynamic group discussions, where we brainstormed not only with mentors but also with fellow participants. This program equipped leaders to understand the critical role of strategy in organizations, the necessity of adapting to modern transformative environments, and the importance of effectively executing strategic goals across departments through clear communication.
While I had high expectations, this course exceeded them with its detailed and practical lectures and the extraordinary approach of the professors.
The second phase of the program involved job-shadowing at several companies in Toronto. Our first visit was to Martinrea, a global leader in the automotive industry, renowned for its innovative engineering and R&D. At Martinrea, we gained insights into the company’s lean processes, problem-solving methodologies, and robust safety culture. Engaging in discussions on topics such as lean practices, product launches, and R&D processes was particularly beneficial, thanks to the open and collaborative attitude of the professionals we met during our three-day stay.
Following Martinrea, we visited Bombardier, a company celebrated for designing and manufacturing high-performance aircraft, and Summer Fresh, producing healthy foods and dressings. Each of these successful companies demonstrated a strong commitment to quality, safety, and their people, which was truly inspiring.
Throughout the program, we received invaluable support from the Ambassador’s Club of the Macedonia 2025 organization in Canada, as well as one of its founders, Mr. John Bitove.
I am deeply honored to have been part of this exceptional program. It provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with outstanding Canadian companies and gain insights on how I can contribute more effectively to Alkaloid’s R&D department and the organization as a whole.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Macedonia 2025 for facilitating this comprehensive advancement of my knowledge and career, as well as to my company, Alkaloid AD, for their invaluable support in enabling this education.
Packa Antovska, Senior manager, Research & development, Alkaloid AD Skopje
Bridging Knowledge and Practice: Nena Manchev’s Journey Through the Macedonia2025 Executive Education Program in Canada
The Macedonia2025 Executive Education Program in Canada consists of two transformative segments: the Strategic Execution Program at the Smith School of Business at Queens University in Kingston and the job-shadowing component, offering invaluable hands-on experiences with leading professors, professionals and organizations in Kingston and Toronto.
Attending the Smith School of Business Strategic Execution Program was an incredibly enriching experience – one that I am confident will continue to deliver value over time. The program provided a comprehensive understanding of strategic planning, execution, and decision-making. It emphasized that true strategic execution goes beyond planning – it requires adaptability, consistent effort, and the ability to blend intuition with rigorous analysis.
Key takeaways included the importance of stakeholder engagement, effective communication, and maintaining momentum to drive sustainable success. By applying the frameworks and strategies learned, I feel equipped to prioritize decisions and turn them into actionable steps for lasting organizational impact. The sessions helped me consolidate the knowledge, experience, and challenges I’ve accumulated over the years, creating a practical “playbook” for refining my execution style.
A particular highlight was the additional lecture on Competitive Strategy delivered by PhD Goce Andrevski in Kingston. This insightful session explored the integration of artificial intelligence into strategic planning, opening up exciting possibilities for future applications in my work. His valuable tips and real-world approaches will undoubtedly shape my efforts in the months ahead.
The job-shadowing segment of the program began in Kingston, where I had the opportunity to engage with professors and professionals from the Smith School of Business. Our discussions revealed shared interests and promising opportunities for collaboration, particularly with the Center for International Management. I was delighted to discover aligned approaches to alumni engagement and look forward to exploring custom-made initiatives for professionals or scholarship and exchange opportunities for aspiring Macedonian students. These initiatives could be transformative for professionals/students eager to expand their academic and professional horizons.
In Toronto, my job-shadowing experience began with a visit to Martinrea International, a global leader in automotive solutions. The visit was exceptionally organized, and we were warmly welcomed by the GM and senior leadership team. Touring their production sites, I was impressed by their refined health and safety procedures, extensive use of KPI tracking, and the consistent embodiment of their mission and values. My peers delivered an outstanding presentation showcasing the expertise and innovation of Kostal and Alkaloid, leaving Martinrea’s team inspired – proof of the talent and capabilities within Macedonia.
The official visit of Bombardier was another standout experience. Guided by Graham Kelly, Vice President, and his associate, we witnessed the intricate assembly process of business jets and even tested a plane cabin. The behind-the-scenes insights and engaging conversations made this visit truly unforgettable.
Visiting Summer Fresh, a family-owned Canadian company led by Macedonian-Canadian entrepreneur Susan Niczowski, was equally inspiring. Susan’s personal story of determination and success resonated deeply, highlighting her passion for growing a business that now produces over 85 gourmet salads, hummus, and dips. Although health and safety protocols limited access to production sites, the visit left a lasting impression.
We also had the pleasure of networking with MK2025 Ambassador Club Members Margarita Mincheva, Aleksandar Orovcanec, and Iko Maurovski at Niagara Falls. Their hospitality and inspiring stories of immigrant success added another dimension to the trip. Niagara Falls itself was a breathtaking natural wonder that left us in admiration.
Finally, meeting John Bitove, his wife Rendi, and their daughter Blair during a dinner in Toronto was a memorable experience. Sharing impressions of the Executive Education program and attending a Toronto Raptors game together – celebrating a win – was a thrilling way to cap off the trip.
I am deeply grateful to Macedonia2025 for facilitating this invaluable opportunity at the Smith School of Business and the accompanying job-shadowing program. Their dedication to supporting Macedonian professionals in gaining Canadian business experience has profoundly impacted my growth and aspirations.
If you are considering advancing your skills, building global connections, and gaining transformative insights, I wholeheartedly encourage you to apply for this program. It is a journey that will challenge, inspire, and prepare you for greater professional achievements.
Nena Manchev, Leadership and Education Program Manager at Macedonia2025
Bringing Knowledge and Practice: Lejla Mehmedovikj’s Journey Through the Macedonia2025 Executive Education Program in Canada
Macedonia2025 and John Bitove afforded us exclusive access to an exceptional Executive Leadership Program and exemplary leadership across a spectrum of Canadian companies. The curriculum at Queen’s University featured inspiring lectures on transformational and charismatic leadership, complemented by invaluable one-on-one coaching and a rich exchange of insights with fellow Canadian professionals.
Our visits to Martinrea, SummerFresh, and Bombardier showcased a culture committed to the highest standards of first-world manufacturing. Susan Niczowski’s remarkable success story, alongside Bombardier’s dedication to excellence in luxury aircraft production and Martinrea’s unwavering focus on safety and innovation, will profoundly influence my professional growth.
I extend my sincere gratitude to the Bitove family for their warm hospitality during our unforgettable evening at the Scotiabank Arena for the Toronto Raptors game, and to Prof. Goce Andrevski from Queen’s University for his generous welcome in Kingston and generous knowledge sharing on Strategy.
Lejla Mehmedovikj, Category Manager at Lear Corporation, Europe & Africa region
We’re thrilled to announce that three outstanding professionals: Packa Antovska, Viktor Taneski, and Nena Manchev, are embarking on a transformative two-week journey as part of the Macedonia2025 Executive Study Program in Canada, starting November 11th. This program provides Macedonian executives with a unique North American experience, combining world-class executive education with practical business insights.
In their first week, Packa, Viktor, and Nena will participate in the Strategic Execution Course at Smith School of Business at the Queen’s University, where they’ll sharpen their strategic leadership skills and gain invaluable knowledge to drive meaningful change within their organizations and communities.
After their week at Queen’s University, Packa, Viktor and Nena will head to Toronto for an intensive job-shadowing week. This invaluable opportunity will not only expand their professional networks but also equip them with practical insights that will drive their future success. A heartfelt thank you to John Bitove Jr. for his incredible support in making this program possible, including the job-shadowing component. During their second week, participants will visit top Canadian companies, where they will gain hands-on business experience, by visiting top Canadian companies across various industries such as Martinrea, Summerfresh, Bombardier, and Rumble, gaining hands-on experience and insights from various industries. His commitment is empowering Macedonian leaders to thrive in an ever-evolving global business landscape.
Stay tuned for updates as Packa, Viktor, and Nena embark on this enriching experience!
Call for applications closes on: December 20th, 2024
Macedonia2025 is thrilled to announce an open call for 5 scholarships for its Executive Education Program in Canada for 2025 offering Leadership and Strategic Execution Programs in collaboration with the Smith School of Business, Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada.
General information about the Program
The Macedonia2025 Executive Education Program in Canada offers talented Macedonian managers a comprehensive North American experience, featuring access to top executive education courses and genuine business exposure in North American companies.
The program aims to actively and continuously support talented professionals in the country to improve their professional knowledge and leadership potential by increasing the participant’s competencies and performance in a continuously changing global business environment. It also offers a unique networking opportunity that can help export-oriented companies promote their products and services to the global markets.
Smith School of Business at Queen’s University is one of Canada’s leading business schools, renowned for its excellence in management education and research. Accredited by AACSB International, it offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and executive programs tailored to meet diverse professional needs. With a focus on a global perspective, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong alumni network, the Smith School of Business prepares students and executives to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape, making impactful contributions to their fields and communities.
Application Criteria
The target participants for this program are middle to top-level Macedonian managers and successful entrepreneurs at companies located in Macedonia who plan to develop their professional careers in Macedonia and to contribute towards the economic development of the country and who are fulfilling the following application criteria:
Have at least 5 years of relevant experience in a middle to top-level managerial position
Are willing to give back to the community and mentor younger professionals
Have possibilities for company expansion, growth within the company, and sharing knowledge within the company
Are eager to learn, upgrade skills, and implement the knowledge within the company
Have excellent proficiency in the English language
Can adapt to working with international teams
Are preferably, representatives of an export-oriented company
Candidates without prior exposure to foreign education programs and female candidates will be given preference
Program Structure
Participants in the Macedonia2025 scholarship program will experience a comprehensive and enriching executive education module designed to enhance leadership skills and strategic execution capabilities.
The program structure includes:
Duration and Timing: Participants can engage in one executive education module, spanning 5 working days, offered either in May/June 2025 or Oct/Nov 2025.
Financial Coverage: Macedonia2025 covers partly cost of the enrollment, tuition, and administrative fees associated with the selected executive program, while the participant is expected to participate with 2500 EUR (this amount may vary due to changes in the program fee.
Travel and Accommodation: Participants are responsible for covering co-share of enrollment fees, financing their travel, visa expenditures, and accommodation expenses outside of the ones during the course.
Internship/Job Shadowing: Participants have the option to undertake internship or job shadowing activities within a Canadian company, tailored to their industry and background. Internship/ job shadowing is not guaranteed.
Networking Opportunities: Participants will have the unique opportunity to network with Macedonia2025 members and supporters residing in Canada.
Executive Course Selection: Applicants can choose one executive course from the list of proposed options.
Duration of Stay: Each participant is encouraged to consider staying in Canada for at least two to three weeks, depending on the duration of the secured internship/job shadowing.
Facilities Provided by Macedonia2025
Selected candidates will benefit from various services provided by Macedonia2025, including:
Interview scheduling with Selection committee members
Confirmation letter for visa application
Enrollment in the chosen program
Assistance during the program in Canada
Support in finding a job shadowing company (not guaranteed)
Networking events with Macedonia2025 members
Co-sharing cost of the scholarship fee (Program costs CAD 10,500 (plus applicable taxes))
Obligations of Applicants/Companies
Applicants or their respective companies are required to:
Co-sharing cost of the scholarship fee in the amount of 2.500 EUR (this amount may vary due to changes in the program fee)
Personally handle visa applications and related documents
Cover all travel expenses
Bear accommodation and other additional expenses not covered by the scholarship
Consider daily living costs ranging from CAD 80 – to CAD 100
How to Apply
To apply, you will need to fill-in the APPLICATION ASSESSMENT FORM, and attach the required documents within. At the end of the process, you should have submitted:
Completed Application Assessment Form;
CV in English (Europass or similar format) (professional resume);
High-resolution Photo;
Selection Process
The selection process will be as follows:
Open Call announced on November 15th, 2024
Application deadline: December 20th, 2024
Evaluation by an independent selection committee
Shortlisted candidates invited for interview
Selection based on industry diversity, educational background, achievements, and gender diversity
Location and Accommodation
Programs take place at designated locations: Kington, while the job-shadowing part will be most probably executed in Toronto.
Bear accommodation arrangements and other additional expenses not covered by the scholarship are the responsibility of the candidates.
Important Notices
Scholarship recipients must sign a framework agreement with Macedonia2025, outlining areas of contribution to the organization or the country.
Recipients are required to provide photos and testimonials after completing the program for promotional purposes of the Program.
Alumni are expected to maintain close relations with Macedonia2025, participate in events, and contribute to the organization’s mission.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to enhance your leadership skills and strategic execution capabilities.
Apply now and be part of Macedonia2025’s mission to drive economic growth and development in our country.
The Macedonia2025 Executive Education Program in Canada offers talented Macedonian executives a unique North American experience, blending top-tier executive education with real-world business exposure at leading companies.
We are proud to announce that two outstanding professionals, Lejla Mehmedovikj and Sanja Radovanovikj, are embarking on their leadership journey with a Leadership Program at Smith School of Business at Queen’s University. This program is designed to help participants realize their full leadership potential by enhancing their skills and performance in a rapidly changing global business environment.
After their week at Queen’s University, Lejla and Sanja will head to Toronto for an intensive job-shadowing week, where they will gain hands-on business experience by visiting top Canadian companies across various industries. This invaluable opportunity will not only expand their professional networks but also equip them with practical insights that will drive their future success.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to John Bitove Jr. for his invaluable support and dedication to making this program’s job-shadowing component a reality.
Stay tuned for updates as these two remarkable leaders embark on their journey to further their leadership skills and make impactful contributions to the global business community!
Macedonia2025 is thrilled to announce an open call for 4 scholarships for its Executive Education Program in Canada offering Leadership and Strategic Execution Programs in collaboration with the Smith School of Business, Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada.
General information about the Program
The Macedonia2025 Executive Education Program in Canada offers talented Macedonian executives a comprehensive North American experience, featuring access to top executive education courses and genuine business exposure in North American companies.
The program aims to actively and continuously support talented young professionals in the country to realize their full personal and leadership potential by increasing the participant’s competencies and performance in a continuously changing global business environment. It also offers a unique networking opportunity that can help export-oriented companies promote their products and services to the global markets.
Smith School of Business at Queen’s University is one of Canada’s leading business schools, renowned for its excellence in management education and research. Accredited by AACSB International, it offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and executive programs tailored to meet diverse professional needs. With a focus on a global perspective, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong alumni network, the Smith School of Business prepares students and executives to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape, making impactful contributions to their fields and communities.
Application Criteria
The target participants for this program are top Macedonian executives, high-level managers and proven entrepreneurs at companies located in Macedonia who plan to develop their professional careers in Macedonia and to contribute towards the economic development of the country and who are fulfilling the following application criteria:
• Have at least 5 years of relevant experience in a managerial position • Are willing to give back to the community and mentor younger professionals • Have possibilities for company expansion, growth within the company, and sharing knowledge within the company • Are preferably, representatives of an export-oriented company • Are eager to learn, upgrade skills, and implement the knowledge within the company • Have excellent proficiency in the English language • Can adapt to working with international teams • Adaptability to international teamwork • Candidates without prior exposure to foreign education programs and female candidates will be given preference
Program Structure
Participants in the Macedonia2025 scholarship program will experience a comprehensive and enriching executive education module designed to enhance leadership skills and strategic execution capabilities.
The program structure includes:
Duration and Timing: Participants can engage in one executive education module, spanning 5 working days, offered either in May/June 2024 or Nov/Dec 2024.
Financial Coverage: Macedonia2025 covers partly cost of the enrollment, tuition, and administrative fees associated with the selected executive program, while the participant is expected to participate with 2500 EUR (this amount may vary due to changes in the program fee)
Travel and Accommodation: Participants are responsible for covering co-share of enrollment fees, financing their travel, visa expenditures, and accommodation expenses outside of the ones during the course.
Internship/Job Shadowing: Participants have the option to undertake internship or job shadowing activities within a Canadian company, tailored to their industry and background. Internship/ job shadowing is not guaranteed.
Networking Opportunities: Participants will have the unique opportunity to network with Macedonia2025 members and supporters residing in Canada at an exclusive event hosted by Macedonia2025 members.
Executive Course Selection: Applicants can choose one executive course from the list of proposed options.
Duration of Stay: Each participant is encouraged to consider staying in Canada for at least two to three weeks, depending on the duration of the secured internship/job shadowing.
Facilities Provided by Macedonia2025
Selected candidates will benefit from various services provided by Macedonia2025, including:
• Interview scheduling with Selection committee members • Confirmation letter for visa application • Enrollment in the chosen program • Assistance during the program in Canada • Support in finding a job shadowing company (not guaranteed) • Networking events with Macedonia2025 members • Co-sharing cost of the scholarship fee (Program costs CAD 11,000 (excluding tax))
Obligations of Applicants/Companies
Applicants or their respective companies are required to:
• Co-sharing cost of the scholarship fee in the amount of 2.500 Eur (this amount may vary due to changes in the program fee) • Personally handle visa applications and related documents • Cover all travel expenses • Bear accommodation and other additional expenses not covered by the scholarship • Consider daily living costs ranging from CAD 50 – to CAD 70
How to Apply
To apply, you will need to fill-in the APPLICATION ASSESSMENT FORM, and attach the required documents within. At the end of the process, you should have submitted:
Completed Application Assessment Form;
CV in English (Europass or similar format) (professional resume);
High-resolution Photo;
Selection Process
The selection process will be as follows: • Open Call announced on March 14th, 2024 • Application deadline: April 20th, 2024 • Evaluation by an independent selection committee • Shortlisted candidates invited for interview • Selection based on industry diversity, educational background, achievements, and gender diversity
Location and Accommodation
Programs take place at designated locations: Kington, while the job-shadowing part will be most probably executed in Toronto. Bear accommodation arrangements and other additional expenses not covered by the scholarship are the responsibility of the candidates.
Important Notices
Scholarship recipients must sign a framework agreement with Macedonia2025, outlining areas of contribution to the organization or the country.
Recipients are required to provide photos and testimonials after completing the program for promotional purposes of the Program.
Alumni are expected to maintain close relations with Macedonia2025, participate in events, and contribute to the organization’s mission.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to enhance your leadership skills and strategic execution capabilities.
Apply now and be part of Macedonia2025’s mission to drive economic growth and development in our country.