Professional Development
Professional development is at the heart of our team’s success.
A Creative Approach to Team Building and Public Speaking
FNHIC Staff Participate in Improv for Work & Wellness Training
As part of our ongoing commitment to professional development and team building, FNHIC staff had the pleasure of participating in an engaging and insightful training session with Improv for Work & Wellness.
This unique workshop used the principles of improvisational theatre to help enhance key workplace skills such as public speaking, active listening, adaptability, and collaboration. Through a series of fun, interactive exercises, staff were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, think on their feet, and support one another in a positive and creative environment.
Not only did the training strengthen our communication skills, but it also fostered stronger team connections, boosted confidence, and brought a lot of laughter into the room. It was a refreshing reminder of the power of play and presence in both personal and professional growth.
We’re grateful to Improv for Work & Wellness for delivering such a memorable and impactful experience! Read more below.
Improv for Work & Wellness – Communication Training
We believe that your communication practice is your leadership practice.
In partnership with the First Nations Housing & Infrastructure Council, Improv for Work & Wellness has delivered a series of dynamic communication programs focused on Presentations & Public Speaking, Presenting Virtually, and Storytelling & Leadership—in collaboration with 3 Crows Productions.
Our shared goal is to empower First Nations leaders to strengthen everyday communication skills that build trust, engagement, and influence. Whether leading in the boardroom, connecting with communities, or sharing stories that carry a collective vision, participants gain tools to land their ideas, speak with clarity, and inspire their audiences with authenticity and presence.
Improv for Work & Wellness: Our Story
Improv for Work & Wellness was born from the vibrant heart of New York City, where Founder Dan Dumsha first discovered the transformative power of improv beyond the stage. What began as a hit improv show soon led to pioneering workshops for Parkinson’s patients at Mount Sinai Hospital—revealing improv’s ability to heal, connect, and empower.
After returning to Vancouver, Dan deepened this mission—creating programs for people who stutter, individuals living with Alzheimer’s, and brain health research at UBC. Blending 15 years of corporate leadership with groundbreaking improv practice, Dan launched Improv for Work, a suite of communication and leadership training programs that inspire clarity, collaboration, and innovation.
In 2024, Improv for Work & Wellness officially became an independent entity, with a social enterprise model that funds not-for-profit wellness initiatives—proving that play, presence, and connection can transform lives at work and in the world.
Why Improv?
Improv is a powerful modality for impactful and inspired communication training. It requires us to be present, to listen, and to co-create.
While it’s natural to feel nervous or hesitant, your comfort is always our priority. No performance required—we create an atmosphere of trust and respect, where participants feel relaxed, open, and encouraged to embrace the unexpected… and get meaningful work done.
Our Collaborative Communication Journey
Presentations & Public Speaking
This program helps leaders communicate with clarity, confidence, and presence. Through a dynamic blend of interactive exercises and practical tools, participants develop a grounded, authentic voice, learn to respond in real-time, and connect meaningfully with their audiences. They strengthen their ability to prepare and deliver content while cultivating a presence that engages, influences, and inspires.
Presenting Virtually
Even across screens, presence matters. This program explores how to bring energy, connection, and clarity to online communication. Using principles of improv, participants practice techniques to stay present, engage remote audiences, and bring warmth, story, and intention into the virtual room—making online meetings more human, participatory, and powerful.
Storytelling & Leadership
Developed in collaboration with 3 Crows Productions, this unique program supports leaders in using storytelling to reflect the guiding principles and philosophies at the heart of their work. 3 Crows centres on tradition, identity, and the power of oral storytelling, while Improv for Work & Wellness brings focus to the five stories every leader can tell, story structure, moral clarity, and the “why” behind storytelling as a leadership tool.
Together, we help leaders craft and share meaningful narratives—creating space for connection, legacy, and cultural alignment.
Please note: this offering was delivered in partnership with 3 Crows and if ever requested this would be dependent on their availability and timeline. If a collaboration is not possible, we also offer Storytelling for Leaders as a stand-alone program through Improv for Work & Wellness.