Opening doors for representation: Sabine Soumare’s journey and commitment to public service

Serving the public is a collective effort. But it takes dedication to advocate for and amplify voices that are not always heard. From her journey as a newcomer to her current role as Chief of Staff and Private Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Sabine Soumare’s path in public service has paved the way for others to follow. Her story is a reminder that when one person leads with purpose, an entire community moves forward.

Leading the way for representation

Sabine’s leadership for the past 15 years is more than just a title. It’s a tool for representation and opening doors. Born and raised in France to Guadaloupean parents, with every role her goal has always revolved around representation.

“If everyone is in the room, different perspectives and angles will be brought. And therefore, everyone will benefit from it.”

In the last 10 years, her goal to amplify different communities has changed the work landscape in government. She recalls the first time that she entered policy work, board rooms and meetings lacked the representation she wanted to see.

“I told myself right away that I will be one of them, but I will keep the door open as much as possible.”, she promised.

Returning to public service, Sabine saw progress in representation, with continued opportunities to strengthen and expand that progress. During her tenure at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Diversity Institute, one of her biggest portfolios was the 50 – 30 Challenge — a voluntary initiative that calls Canadian organizations to push for more representation in boardrooms and senior management. Her work was instrumental in disseminating strategies for the program. Since its implementation, to date 2,853 organizations have committed to increase representation within their workplaces.

“More than just an initiative, it’s also best practices that we want organizations to start implementing."

Finding her calling in public service

Sabine had only been in Canada for five years when she entered the public sector. Her compelling contribution to work with the Francophone community got her recognition to work for the then Minister of Francophone Affairs. As a newcomer, it made her wonder why they thought she was the best person for the job. Being a young Black woman in a big role made many people question her presence in the room. Her ‘aha’ moment came when she saw how senior executives placed real confidence in her prior experience, her ability to connect with stakeholders, and her capacity to drive meaningful impact.

“I was bringing something into the role, and that’s what they saw. This was something bigger than I think I had, and I had it. That’s why they picked me.”

Building on her success in business and as an executive, Sabine chose to re-enter the public sector to serve her province and its citizens, and through her inclusive leadership she embodies the belief that our public institutions should reflect a diversity in which future generations can see themselves. Her understanding and passion for the public’s experiences and the civil administration permeates now in her current non-partisan role as the Chief of Staff. A big part of her job is advising the Lieutenant Governor on her essential constitutional, ceremonial, and social roles for Ontarians. Stepping into the role, Sabine made it her goal to represent every Ontarian and ensure every community’s voice is heard.

As Chief of Staff, Sabine will lead the Office of the Lieutenant Governor’s efforts to create meaningful impact for International Women’s Day through initiatives that highlight the contributions of women across various sectors. The event “Letters to Future Leaders” will highlight the work of leaders from different backgrounds who inspired other women. The event will feature letters handwritten by pathfinders from various sectors as a way to amplify their shared experiences.

“The idea is that you are inspired by someone you see. The diversity we are promoting will help the next generation recognize that they can be leaders too.”

Realizing her impact

In her 15 years of public service, her work has come full circle. Sabine says she’s felt the impact of her work many times. Even as a young girl, helping people was a natural instinct for Sabine. Looking back at the impact she’s made so far and the portfolios she’s handled, she realizes this is her path all along.

“I’m clearly doing what I always wanted to do. And the beauty of it is, I have the privilege of doing it in different ways.” Sabine reflects.

As a major leader in public service, Sabine’s strength is her personable nature. Her presence alone inspires people in the room. Beyond the podium, she views moments after events as an opportunity to connect, especially to younger people. She realizes her biggest impact is by sharing her own story. “I was really moved when I saw the youth wanting to make a difference.” she notes. Recognizing that many young audiences see their own potential reflected in her journey, she encourages them to lead no matter their age. “If we can put little seeds inside them, it will go a long way.”

Today, Sabine continues to create pathways for others as much as she can. Something as simple as a LinkedIn connection and connecting women to organizations creates big opportunities for her networks. To her, this act of giving is the most important thing to do especially for women. “Women usually never ask for help. I’ve heard women say, ‘I don't usually ask, I just do what I can and figure it out’”

Sabine adds that giving opportunities to women gains a community. “When we give, we gain advocates. We gain leaders.”

“If all of us can apply that give, we will gain ultimately.” Sabine reflects. It’s a humble philosophy, but under her leadership it has become a significant blueprint. A blueprint that ensures Ontario’s public service is more than just a place of work, but a door for the next generation of diverse leaders.