Ignite the Leader in You

Leadership needs women - confident, authentic, and resilient ones.

Yet women remain underrepresented in leadership, holding just one in four managerial roles. While the economic and social benefits of gender equity are undeniable, progress has been slow. That’s why we created Woman Up! A transformative leadership journey for women who are ready to lead with purpose, power, and authenticity.


Whether you’re like Emerging Leader Emily, stepping into leadership and battling imposter syndrome, or Manager Tanya, an experienced leader feeling burnt out and searching for renewed purpose - Woman Up! is designed for you.


Through engaging workshops, personal coaching, and a powerful peer community, you’ll develop a life strategy aligned with your values, gain emotional agility, and ignite your potential. You won’t just learn leadership—you’ll live it.

This is your invitation to rediscover your spark, reclaim your influence, and rise with purpose. Join Woman Up! and lead the way forward.

We think our program is great

But don't take our word for it...

Build a network of supportive peers

Joan MacMillan | Director Cammac Learning Evolution Inc.

I just completed the Woman Up! Ignite the Leader in You Program. Exceptionally valuable, not just for the learning and engagement provided, but also for those who are looking to build a network of supportive peers who are navigating similar waters! Johanna is incredibly knowledgeable and creates an ideal environment and space for personal growth and development!

Absolutely affirming and empowering!

Kellie Morgan | Superintendent Edmonton Police Service

This course has been extremely beneficial for me given my current work life and the many challenges I am faced with, completely and absolutely affirming and empowering for me. In fact I don't think I could have possibly taken the course at a better time for my own resilience, my mental fortitude and my overall emotional well-being, and I thank you for all of that!

Johanna is dedicated to her students

Abigail DiMartino | Owner Abby Marie Beauty Salon

This program has helped me start up my new business and become a leader for my employee’s. I catch myself referring back to some of the lessons almost 6 months later. I get compliments day to day from clients and my fellow coworkers of how proud they are of me and my leadership skills. This course really leaves an imprint in your mind and you will see yourself continuing to grow and develop those leadership skills you need to be the best version of yourself.

Stronger advocate for myself and fellow females in the workplace

Leila Andrews | Training Manager at ALERT

I had the privilege of being in the first cohort of the Woman Up! Program. This program exceeded my expectations in every way – the quality of the content, the authenticity of the instruction and the peer connections were more than I had imagined. During the program I saw myself grow, move out of my comfort zone and take steps to better understand my authentic leadership style and associated goals for my career. Since the program, I have found myself more confident in my job and a stronger advocate for myself and fellow females in the workplace. I strongly recommend this program to any woman, whether you are in a position of formal or informal leadership. The personal and professional growth as a result is outstanding!

I don't feel so alone anymore

Previous Participant

I now have the support needed to continue moving ahead in challenging times as I lead up and out. It was a truly incredible experience. I'm sad the program is over!

Take a deeper look into my leadership strengths

Lindsey Schellenberg | Issues Manager Alberta Corrections

I assumed it would be the typical ‘fluff’ leadership course, that would offer surface level information with little active participation required on my part…..I should have known that Dr. Pagonis would not waste anyone’s time with something like that! This course has allowed me to take a deeper look into what my leadership goals are, the type of leader I want to be and put a spotlight on my strengths, while also recognizing areas of improvement.

The importance of including male allies

Previous Participant

Having men participate can provide them with an opportunity to learn how they can be more inclusive and can open up great discussions with supportive male counterparts in the room.

More than a training program

Previous Participant

Woman Up! is so much more than a training program. It is a community and will be pivotal in working towards gender equality in the workplace

Advocate for myself

Previous Participant

This program helped my confidence so that I can better articulate my value and advocate for what I bring to the team.

Meet Your Instructors

Chief Executive Officer Dr. Johanna Pagonis

Dr. Johanna Pagonis is the founder and CEO of Sinogap Solutions and brings over two decades of experience in organizational training, leadership development, and qualitative research. Throughout her career, she has collaborated extensively with public and private sector clients, including municipal, provincial, and federal government agencies, not-for-profits, and private enterprises. Johanna has specialized in developing impactful leadership and training programs, particularly within public safety and law enforcement. Her partnerships have included organizations such as INTERPOL, Calgary Police Service (CPS), Edmonton Police Service (EPS), the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and Alberta Justice and Solicitor General. She also led the creation of leadership development initiatives for Saskatchewan Police College and numerous other institutions across Canada. Her academic contributions are rooted in her doctoral research at the University of Alberta, which explored the development of authentic and effective leadership. This research became the foundation of her book, Choose to Be a Leader Others Would Want to Follow, a guide offering actionable strategies for building high-performing leadership cultures. Currently, Dr. Pagonis shares her expertise as a faculty member at the University of Alberta, where she continues to inspire the next generation of leaders through her teaching and mentorship.

Chief Operating Officer Katie Allan, M.Ed

Katie Allan is a dynamic and people-centered leader who brings heart, strategy, and authenticity to every room she enters. As the Chief Operating Officer of Sinogap Solutions, she guides organizations and individuals through meaningful transformation using research-driven insights, bold facilitation, and practical leadership tools. Her work spans leadership development, organizational consulting, and coaching—anchored by a commitment to fostering spaces where people feel heard, valued, and empowered. Katie holds a Master’s in Education from the University of Alberta and brings over a decade of formal leadership experience in higher education. Her background includes deep expertise in mentorship, change management, and program development, with a track record of strengthening teams, enhancing organizational culture, and supporting personal and professional growth. At Sinogap Solutions, Katie leads high-impact initiatives—from strategic planning and culture assessments to competency frameworks and organizational reviews. She’s known for her ability to turn complex challenges into clear, human-centered strategies. Katie also co-hosts the Tackle Tuesday podcast, where she facilitates conversations that explore leadership through vulnerability, courage, and real-world practice. Whether she’s on stage delivering a keynote, in a boardroom designing strategy, or in a breakout room guiding reflection, Katie brings a brave, compassionate presence—and a fierce belief in the power of women’s leadership.

Early Bird Discount!

Use code Womanup15 to get a 15% discount

Enroll today

Program Resources

Gain exclusive access to our thriving online community of over 150 like-minded women!

  • Learner Assessments

    You will complete one self-assessment and one 360° assessments that will uncover your strengths and blind spots as a leader and your communication skills. As you progress through the program you will create a learning and development plan that will help you achieve your ideal vision of an authentic leader.

  • Resources

    You will receive Dr. Pagonis’ e-book, Choose to be a Leader Others Would Want to Follow: How to Lead with Heart and Purpose, along with a workbook that will guide your learning through the entire program.

  • Community of Empowerment

    Inside, you’ll find a rich library of empowering videos, insightful articles, engaging podcast episodes, and dynamic discussions. All designed to support your journey. It’s more than just resources; it’s a network built for growth, connection, and real transformation.

Some of the organizations that have invested in the Woman Up! Program

Why Invest in Woman Up?

We conducted an evaluation to assess the impact of the Woman Up! program. Through the evaluation we discovered that the program was truly meaningful and empowering for its participants. We encourage you to download our infographic that provides evidence regarding the ROI for participants and organizations who make the intentional choice to invest in women.
Download the infographic

FAQ

  • What is included in the program?

    You will get access to a workbook that will guide your learning through the entire program. You will complete self-assessments and a 360° survey to assess your strengths and areas of growth regarding your leadership and communication skills. In addition, your instructors will provide guided support as you apply your new skills. Each participant will also receive Dr. Pagonis' e-book, Choose to be a Leader Others Would Follow: How to Lead with Heart and Purpose.

  • What makes this program different from other leadership workshops?

    Our method provides opportunities for you to move between the program and your workplace, to work collaboratively on assignments with other women, and use the program as an opportunity to reflect on your everyday workplace practices. This method is vastly different than what most individuals receive through training, which is why most people forget 90% of what they have learned. You will also become part of a community in which similarly positioned women can discuss their feedback, compare notes, and emotionally support one another’s learning.

  • What are the program outcomes

    You will discover your unique purpose for leading others and you will uncover the competencies required in developing your own authentic leadership style. Most importantly, you will develop a resilient mindset and communication skills to lead yourself and others through any circumstance life throws at you. By the end of this course, you will develop into a leader who engages, empowers, and inspires others in developing an inner sense of well-being and resilience.

  • Are you offering a discount if I register early?

    We encourage you to take advantage of our early bird pricing. Use code Womanup15.

  • How can I register as an organization?

    If you are interested in registering a group from your organization, please contact us at [email protected] for bulk enrollment.

Course curriculum

    1. A Message from Your Facilitator

    2. A Walkthrough of the Thinkific Learning Management System

    3. Vision and Outcomes

    4. Program Structure

    5. Meet Your Facilitators

    6. Pre-Engagement: Introduce yourself using the Woman Up online community!

    7. Get the Most from Your Online Community

    8. Dr. Pagonis' Book

    1. Orientation Workshop #1

    2. Workbook

    3. Recording

    1. Getting Ready for Your Coaching Session

    1. How to Navigate Through the Online Course

    2. Online Course #1

    1. Online Course #2

    1. Getting Ready

    2. Slide Deck

    3. Recording

About this course

  • $2,100.00
  • 33 lessons