💡 Alumni Spotlight: Sky Shi (2022-2023)

We recently had the pleasure of meeting with Sky Shi, an OLIP alumnus whose career journey since the program has taken him into the heart of Canada’s international trade and foreign affairs landscape.

During our conversation, Sky reflected on his time in OLIP and discussed the career path he has pursued since completing the programme. He also answered our questions about entering the workforce and navigating professional opportunities after OLIP.

Sky emphasized that one of the program’s greatest strengths is its ability to push interns outside of their comfort zones, exposing them to new environments, perspectives, and opportunities. He shared that OLIP taught him to become comfortable with uncertainty and to view unfamiliar situations not as obstacles, but as opportunities for growth. He also highlighted the importance of asking questions, noting that curiosity is a strength rather than a weakness and remains one of the most valuable tools in his professional life. 

Following OLIP, Sky joined Global Affairs Canada, where he has spent the past two and a half years working across three different teams. He currently serves as a Business Analyst with the Trade Commissioner Service, where he plans, monitors, and evaluates Canada's commercial funds at missions around the world. The role combines analysis, strategy, and international engagement, providing him with a unique perspective on how Canada supports businesses operating in global markets.

Reflecting on his biggest takeaway from OLIP, Sky explained that the program reinforced the value of remaining open to new opportunities and experiences. Rather than feeling pressured to follow a single predetermined path, he learned that professional growth often comes from embracing unexpected opportunities and being willing to explore different avenues. This mindset has shaped his career at Global Affairs Canada, where he has intentionally sought experiences across multiple teams and areas of work. He also shared an important lesson about networking and relationship-building, noting that people are often eager to connect when approached with genuine curiosity and a desire to learn. This perspective has helped him develop strong professional relationships, find mentors, and confidently navigate large and complex organizations.

Sky also spoke about several projects he is particularly proud of through his involvement with Global Affairs Canada's Young Professionals Network (YPN), where he serves as Co-Chair. Over the past few months, he launched the organization's new Leadership Speaker Series, bringing together national-level leaders to share insights and advice with young professionals. He also organized YPN's first-ever Embassies Soccer Tournament, which brought together participants from sixteen embassies in partnership with Atlético Ottawa just days before the start of the World Cup. In addition, he helped establish the Official Languages Club, creating a welcoming space for employees to strengthen their French and English language skills.

Throughout our discussion, Sky offered thoughtful and practical advice for young professionals beginning their careers. He encouraged us not to take feedback personally, reminding us that constructive feedback is generally about improving the work rather than criticizing the individual. He also emphasized that careers are rarely linear and that unexpected turns often lead to the most rewarding opportunities. Above all, he encouraged us to be bold, pursue stretch opportunities, and not be afraid to aim higher than we think possible.

For those looking for recommendations, Sky shared a few of his favourites. His book recommendation was Principles by Ray Dalio, while his favourite podcast was Diary of a CEO. For a film recommendation, he suggested Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. 

We are incredibly grateful to Sky for taking the time to meet with us and share his experiences. His reflections on embracing uncertainty, staying curious, and building meaningful relationships offered valuable lessons for both our time in OLIP and our future careers beyond the programme.