Muskoka Woods CEO Leadership Camp: Empowering Youth Leaders Ages 15-17

John McAuley

John is currently the Executive Chair of Muskoka Woods, a position he took on after serving as CEO for three decades. His current focus is on leadership development and working closely with the Muskoka Woods Youth Foundation to ensure every kid has the chance to come to Summer Camp. If you have been to Muskoka Woods in the previous 30 years, then no doubt you have seen John McAuley in the circle, greeting parents and engaging guests, welcoming all to Muskoka Woods on the beautiful shores of Lake Rosseau. He moved into the Executive Chair position in 2023.

Chris Tompkins

As the CEO of Muskoka Woods, Chris Tompkins leads the senior leadership team in bringing the Muskoka Woods vision to life. He holds a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Guelph, a teacher’s college degree from the University of Toronto and a Master’s degree in Youth Development from Clemson University. His experience leading in local community, school, church and camp settings has spanned over 20 years. His current role and expertise generates a demand for him to speak with teens and consult with youth leaders.

Chris hosts the Muskoka Woods podcast, Shaping Our World where he speaks with youth development experts. He is an avid sports fan who enjoys an afternoon with a big cup of coffee and a good book. Chris resides in Stouffville, Ontario with his wife and daughter – herself a CEO program graduate.

Sue Wigston

Sue is committed to making an impact in all she does. She is currently the CEO of Givesome, a digital, mobile, web-based platform that lets donors see the difference they make when they give. She is also the EVP of Strategic Growth at Eagle’s Flight, a company committed to changing behavior to drive results. She was previously the COO at Eagle’s Flight for many years, and continues to work with executive teams engaged in Cultural Transformation.

Sue was the founder and president of the Guelph Youth Volleyball Club and coached competitive volleyball for 25 years. She is an advisor for the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion committee with the Integrated Youth Service Network and enjoys working with their youth teaching leadership and life skills. Sue and her husband Cal have 3 amazing adult children and two adorable dogs. Sue loves being active, trying things that terrify her and spending time at her cottage.

Dr. Karyn Gordon

A Wall Street Journal Bestselling author, World’s Top #10 TEDx Talk Speaker (2022), and nominee for the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award (2022), Dr. Karyn is the CEO and co-founder of DK Leadership. She has spoken to over half a million people in 17 countries, including Fortune 500 executives, family businesses, entrepreneurs, professional associations, and school boards.

She holds a Doctorate in Marriage & Family and certifications in leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and career direction. With 25 years of experience as a professional registered therapist and executive coach, she practices what she preaches – embracing a ‘work smart, play hard’ philosophy. Her hobbies include interior design, tennis, skiing, traveling and cherishing moments with her husband of 22 years, twin teenagers, friends, and two energetic puppies in their home north of Toronto.

NASCAR

NASCAR racing stands as a prime example of “team-based” execution, where today’s crews showcase highly-planned activity during every pit stop. In this immersive experience, participants will step into the roles of a typical NASCAR pit crew, working on actual cars to change tires and perform other critical tasks. They’ll get hands-on opportunities to hone the skills crucial for top-notch team execution, developing the precision and teamwork needed to excel in any high-pressure environment.

Draft Day

Draft Day, an Eagles Flight Sports themed experience, is designed to help participants recognize and harness their unique strengths to contribute to a high-performing team. Emphasizing the idea that “Good is the Enemy of the Great,” this program provides opportunities to practice essential skills and gain a deeper understanding of the unique value each participant brings to a team. Through engaging activities and teamwork challenges, participants will strive for greatness and develop the capabilities needed to excel in any team setting.

Promises, Promises

Set against the backdrop of the historic Hanseatic League, Promises, Promises challenges participants to step into the shoes of city leaders navigating a complex web of political alliances and commitments. In this dynamic experience, teams must balance their personal objectives with the broader needs of the group, all while managing the delicate art of trust and communication. As they work to fulfill promises made to their electorate and support their fellow leaders, participants will discover the power of collaboration and the importance of a collective “we” mentality. This program is designed to foster trust, enhance communication skills, and highlight the impact of a unified approach in achieving shared goals.

Gold of the Desert Kings

Gold of the Desert Kings is an exhilarating team-based adventure that puts participants in the heart of a desert expedition, where strategic planning and resource management are key to success. Teams must carefully plan their routes, manage their supplies, and make critical decisions as they navigate the desert in search of gold. The challenge lies not only in collecting as much gold as possible but also in ensuring they have enough food and water to survive the journey. This immersive experience teaches the delicate balance between what’s possible and what’s required, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning, teamwork, and adaptability in achieving goals under pressure. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how to balance ambition with practicality in any challenging environment.