Same Mission - New Path

A Sign That Sparked a Shift

I remember the day vividly. While attending a talk on the book Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans at the Rotman’s School of Business speaker series, they projected a simple image that would stick with me, and shape my thinking: the iconic "You Are Here" sign from the Stanford d.School. This symbol of mindfulness and potential became a mantra, keeping me anchored in the present and guiding me through tough times.

From Mantra to Mission

The power of "You Are Here" started as a personal practice, but soon transitioned to my professional facilitation and Lean project approach, helping teams I worked with to break free from their old narratives and craft new stories of potential and possibility. As those inspirational speakers knew - it wasn't just a sign; it was a catalyst for transformation. It sets you free. I even turned it into a laptop sticker, a constant reminder of my personal commitment to change and an invitation to those around the table to let go of the past and be present.

The Laptop Closes, A New Chapter Opens

One day last year, as I closed my laptop at the end of a day, I traced my fingers across the sticker and pondered my own journey. Had I become stuck in my story? Was it too late to start something new - to switch gears? I realized it was time to write a new chapter.

Launching Irwin Upstream Inc. - Partnering with Lean Agility Inc.

After two decades of fostering innovation within the Ontario Public Service, I launched my own practice: Irwin Upstream Inc. Here, I bring master-level black belt expertise in Lean and Continuous Improvement to public sector teams, from the Federal Public Service to Municipalities, empowering them to deliver better outcomes for the citizens they serve. Partnering with my mentor and friend Craig Szelestowski and the Lean Agility Inc. team, we are set to partner with leaders to build the most efficient and effective public service teams in the world.

You Are Invited to Join the Movement

If you're part of a public sector team looking to reshape your service delivery and create impactful change, let's connect. We are ready to help you navigate your current landscape and unlock the endless possibilities that lie ahead.

I am here. You are here. Let's begin.