March 5 + 6, 2025
Join the conversation in Edmonton, Alberta, with 20 diverse local and across Canada speakers, who are Leadership Experts, Communication Experts and/or Community Leaders believing in purpose-led leadership. This is an engaging and thought-provoking event where we discuss topics that truly matter. It will be a mix of presentations and workshops. See below for Speaker Bios, Presentation and Workshop Topics.
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Unlock your leadership potential by embracing authenticity, resilience, and transformative strategies for today’s diverse workplace.
Why Attend?
You will expand your network, engage with diverse voices, and gain fresh perspectives on authentic, inclusive leadership. By attending, you’ll connect with inspiring professionals, participate in transformative discussions, and acquire practical strategies to foster inclusive cultures, promote resilience, and drive purpose-led change in your organization and community.
Enhance self-awareness, communication skills, and create actionable strategies!
Audience :
This conference is for corporate/industry, government, and non-profit professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who are passionate about driving meaningful change. It’s designed for those committed to making a difference both professionally and personally, through intentional conversations, authentic leadership, and transformative actions that foster inclusion, resilience, and growth.
Outcomes of Event
Discover Transformative Actions:
Gain insights into impactful actions that drive positive change and explore the types of support needed to bring these initiatives to life.
Embrace Confidence Amidst Tension: Learn how to navigate challenging moments with resilience, building inner confidence to champion growth and foster change.
Reflect on Barriers to Authenticity and Inclusion: Engage in deep individual and collective reflection to uncover personal and organizational barriers to authentic, inclusive leadership.
Equip Yourself with Practical Tools for Inclusivity: Walk away with actionable strategies to create inclusive environments, whether you're an employee, supervisor, or senior leader, ready to make a difference in your workplace.
This event is designed to inspire and equip leaders at all levels to foster workplaces where authenticity and inclusivity thrive.
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Event Host and Speaker
Denise Young Facilitator, Trainer, Speaker, CEO, Tiger's Eye Advisory Group
Denise is a collaborator, activator, connector and broker. She is passionate about making a difference in every organization, community and with every person she connects with. An empowering facilitator and business strategist, Denise is always looking for continuous improvement which provides cost-savings to organizations. With over 20 years in public relations, project and change management, event management, facilitation, training/instructing, program development and communications, Denise's multifaceted experience fuels her success as an internal and external multi-disciplinary trainer and consultant.
Speakers
Tynan Allan Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 📢 Keynote Speaker 🎙️Host of the CultureING Podcast As a G20 Young Entrepreneur Delegate in 2017, Tynan gained invaluable insights and global perspectives, further enhancing his ability to navigate complex environments and work collaboratively with people from wildly diverse backgrounds.
Throughout his career, Tynan has spearheaded impactful programs, facilitated meaningful conversations, and designed comprehensive training to drive positive change. At Rogers Communications, he had the honour of launching the Elevate Leadership & Sponsorship program for Black Senior Managers to Directors, an investment from Rogers of over $300k. This highly specific program focused on the company’s commitment to the Black North Initiative and its pledge to increase the representation of equity-deserving talent at the leadership level.
Stephanie Anaka Indigenous Studies & Psychology Student at UBCO |Sixties Scoop Okanagan Director
Stephanie’s unwavering commitment to seeking healing and justice for indigenous communities impacted by the IRS and the 60 Scoop stems from her ties as a survivor, plus the resilience she inherited from her ancestors. Through her dual studies in psychology and indigenous studies at UBCO, she strives to utilize knowledge and personal insights to instigate positive transformations and empower individuals to reclaim their cultural heritage. As the Okanagan director for the Sixties Scoop BC region, Stephanie spearheads initiatives to enhance awareness as a host for Well-being Wednesdays for sixty Scoopers, helping and championing the rights of those affected.
Brad Bartko Disability Specialist | Specialized Training, Team Leadership
Tiffany Connauton Tiffany is the Founder and CEO of Beyond Diversity Inc, an Organizational Consulting firm. As a dedicated advocate for positive change, Tiffany channels her passion into shaping a world where workplaces and volunteer organizations thrive through inclusivity.
Her commitment to improvement is not just a professional pursuit but a personal mission deeply rooted in her love for people and culture.
Tiffany's journey is marked by a combination of formal education and lived experiences, providing her with a unique perspective that sets her apart. Her strength lies in simplifying the complexity into targeted, multi-layered action plans, making her a strategic partner in the transformation of organizational landscapes.Alex Ibbotson Values-based, Strategic Culture Consultant | Métis Artist | Trauma Informed, Executive Life Coach | Speaker, Facilitator, Curriculum Creator & Land-based, Educator
Tara Langan, B.Mgmt. Reducing the stigma related to Neurodiversity in the workplace | Keynote Speaker | Course Creator
With a background in Human Resources and a recent ADHD diagnosis, Tara has established herself as a key voice in advancing normalizing neurodiversity in workplaces on LinkedIn as well as a keynote speaker. With several presentations including taking the stage at DisruptHR she is proudly inviting a call to action for workplaces to embrace neurodiversity and mental health in the workplace. Taking the lead on advancing neurodiversity in industry, she has partnered with Athabasca University to develop a getting started continuing education program: Neurodiversity in the Workplace training program for leaders, HR professionals, and teams. Tara's approach is centered on offering a universal human centric approach to the human experience. Her workshops are engaging, fun as she invites brain nudges around how we all operate differently.
Darrien (Dee) McWatters Equity, Diversity, Inclusion Champion and Consultant, Professional speaker, Advocate for 2SLGTBQIA, Dee came out to herself as transgender female on September 4, 2017, and to the world in January 2018, and began the long road of transitioning to her authentic female form. She is a long-time hockey player, coach, and on ice official and continues to play in Kelowna and officiate with BC Hockey. Dee has been selected to officiate the female provincial championships 3 consecutive years. Dee is one of the founding members of the BC Hockey Equity, Diversity, Inclusion work group and is an advisor on gender expression and diversity to Hockey Canada. She is the former Director of Transgender Community Involvement for Kelowna Pride Society, and the Current Vice President of Advocacy Canada, a 2SLGTBQIA+ advocacy group based in Kelowna, BC She is an aspiring author, having penned a yet to be published memoir entitled, “Sorry I Was Such a Dick When I Had One!” Dee is a philanthropist, creating fundraisers to support 2SLGTBQIA identifying youth organizations and bursaries, and an advocate and activist for equity, diversity and inclusion, and the 2SLGTBQIA+ community.Dr. Susan Murray, Founder at Clearpath Leadership | Executive Coaching, Strategic Planning, Global Impact
Dr. Susan Murray is a seasoned leadership and human capital consultant with global experience. She has led teams in assessing and developing human capital and leadership for governments, NGOs, and the private sector. As a coach and consultant, she has worked with leaders and teams across all levels of organizations to identify organizational strengths and development strategies. Susan recognizes the power of diversity and teamwork, understanding that culture is key to excellence and impact. She is a Gallup Certified Coach and a member of the Forbes Coaches Council and the International Coaching Federation.
Nicole Middleton, Team Development, Coaching, Manager
As a previous business owner Nicole started to understand the power of philanthropy and empathy in the work place. Changing her career path to incorporate these values, she went on to doing careers as a Job Placement Advisor, Team Manager, Writer, and Motivational speaking to help individuals and organizations build a foundation with similar objectives.Chantha Nhem Coach, Mentor, DEI Influencer
My passion is to empower professionals to reach their potential and to support organizations to build more inclusive workplaces through action-oriented and results driven plans. I specialize in coaching & mentoring women in tech and early career professionals on the topics of professional development, navigating difficult conversations & situations in the workplace and career advancements. With my combined 15+ years of experience in leading diverse teams, change management, process innovation, employee resource group leadership, Corporate Early Careers Programming & Strategy expertise, I bring a niche set of skills to empower professionals and support organizations to build an inclusive work culture.
Navneet Scheie, Award Winning HR I D&I Leader I Talent Nurturer I Strategic Thinker
Jeff Sesol Entrepreneur, Leadership Coach, Business Coach, Author, Public Speaker.
With over 30 years of entrepreneurial success, Jeff Sesol is an accomplished business leader who has built and sold multiple companies, including FreeDrive, a pioneering web-based storage company, and SonMedia, an Internet safety platform for parents. Jeff's passion for business transformation and leadership development has been the cornerstone of his career. He brings extensive practical experience to business and executive coaching, helping companies unlock their potential and reach new heights.
His most recent venture, Pull the Chute, exemplifies his mission to help as many companies as possible grow by focusing on leadership and organizational culture.
Matteo Stewart Inclusive Leadership Facilitator, TEDx Speaker, Belonging Practioner, IDI Qualified Administrator
Matteo Stewart (he/him) is a 3-time International TEDx Speaker, Belonging Practitioner, Senior Inclusive Leadership Facilitator and Qualified Administrator of the IDI - Intercultural Development Inventory.. . His "YES, AND..." approach has been fostered over the past 30+ years from coaching, collaborating and advising Senior Leaders across North America in various industries, including Healthcare, Global Asset Management, Non-Profit, the Olympics, Paralympics, Pan Am Games and Film Production. After a leukemia diagnosis, Matteo left his coaching practice in Canada’s Financial district and moved to the mountains of the Okanagan Valley in BC to Build Community. He advocates for curating a sense of belonging in all workplaces while embracing the mantra that addressing unconscious bias takes conscious effort.
Sxwpilemaát Siyám (Chief Leanne Joe),Transformative Economic Reconciliation, Educational Consulting
Sxwpilemaát Siyám, also known as Chief Leanne Joe, of the Squamish Nation, is one of sixteen Hereditary Chiefs of the Squamish Nation and the first female Chief of her Lackett Joe Family. Sxwpilemaát Siyám holds space in many organizations, focusing her work on Economic Reconciliation. One of her roles is as Transformative Storyteller for Economic Reconciliation, with Simon Fraser University, Faculty of Environment, Community Economic Development.Harriet Tinka, Connector, Coach, Changemaker
Chartered Professional Accountant, Confident Expert, Transformational Speaker
Harriet Tinka is a social entrepreneur, transformational speaker, and founder of Empowered Me Inc., where she leverages her extensive experience in leadership development and advocacy for equity, diversity, and inclusion. With a public sector financial management background, Harriet brings a unique perspective to her work, empowering marginalized communities and advocating for multiculturalism. She has served on the boards of the TELUS Friendly Future Foundation and the Canadian Multicultural Education Foundation, where she has championed initiatives that promote inclusivity and equal opportunities. Harriet's inspiring story of survival and resilience has made her a sought-after speaker known for connecting with diverse audiences and encouraging them to embrace their unique strengths. Her passion lies in uplifting others and creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.Sherilyn Trompetter Compassionate Provocateur and Facilitator
Sherilyn is a compassionate and authentic professional who has worked in various themes of diversity, equity and inclusion for over two decades. Sherilyn brings a trauma-informed approach to consulting organizations and coaching individuals and groups. A masterful facilitator, Sherilyn is able to elicit powerful insights and initiate transformative experiences. Sherilyn has extensive community service and volunteer experience. She co-founded ACT Alberta: the Action Coalition on human Trafficking, the leading research-based and outcome-focused human trafficking organization in Alberta. She has a passion for multiculturalism, social justice and community service and has over 18 years of board experience and is currently on the Board of Directors of the Edmonton Community Foundation.
Irma Vartanian,Trainer, Facilitator, Mentor, Coach
Irma is a seasoned leadership coach, and trainer specializing in empowering corporate leaders and public sector professionals to enhance their leadership and communication skills within diverse environments. As a certified Diversity Executive and licensed practitioner in Global DISC and Growth Zone methodologies, Irma delivers tailored and effective solutions for multicultural teams and stakeholders. Her expertise extends to providing specialized training for women leaders and guiding individuals through negotiation challenges in situations marked by diverse and polarized convictions. Irma, an accomplished leadership coach and trainer, is a sought after speaker for events aiming to foster DEIB.Ruthann Weeks, People & Culture Strategist Certified in Workplace Psychological Safety | Neuroinclusion | Workplace Bullying | Sexual Harassment | DEIB | Domestic Violence at Work | Employee Advocate | Leader | Author | Speaker
Ruthann Weeks is the Principal Consultant and Founder of Harmony In The Workplace. She is passionate about helping to create environments that support business objectives and the people that make them happen. She is an author and gifted keynote speaker who delivers a powerful message about today’s workplace challenges. Ruthann is an HR professional specializing in psychological health and safety, inclusion and belonging, workplace bullying, sexual harassment, domestic violence, and mental health at work. Harmony works with progressive leaders to create thriving organizations that attract and retain top talent.
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Presentations:
1. Beyond Words: Transformative Conversations for Meaningful Change
What It’s About: Practical strategies to navigate difficult conversations with empathy and ensure all voices are heard.
Presenter: Denise Young
Takeaways:Techniques for fostering trust and mutual understanding in tense conversations.
Practical tools to ensure everyone feels acknowledged and valued.
The importance of seeking to understand others to drive meaningful change.
Leadership Insight: Builds authenticity by promoting open, empathetic communication and enhances resilience by fostering trust in challenging interactions.
2. Our Collective ReconciliACTION: Beyond Diversity
What It’s About: Understanding reconciliation as a journey distinct from DEI, focused on rebuilding relationships between Indigenous and settler communities.
Presenter: Sxwpilemaat Siyam (Chief Leanne Joe)
Takeaways:Key differences between reconciliation and traditional DEI initiatives.
The importance of restructuring relationships for long-term transformation.
Practical ways to intersect reconciliation efforts with organizational goals.
Leadership Insight: Demonstrates inclusive leadership by addressing systemic inequities and fosters authenticity through commitment to reconciliation.
3. Stronger Together: The Power of Allies, Sponsors, and Mentors
What It’s About: Leveraging networks of support to break barriers and elevate diverse voices.
Presenter: Navneet Scheie (and TBC)
Takeaways:The roles and distinctions between allies, sponsors, and mentors.
Building relationships that empower underrepresented individuals.
Strategies to grow and sustain impactful support systems.
Leadership Insight: Enhances inclusivity by fostering collective success and strengthens resilience through supportive networks.
4. Insights from the Top: EDI from Corporate, Government & Legal Lenses
What It’s About: Exploring how leaders across sectors embed equity, diversity, and inclusion into their strategies.
Presenter: TBC
Takeaways:Insights into systemic approaches to DEI from diverse industries.
Challenges and best practices in leading equitable change.
Tools for integrating DEI into corporate, legal, and government frameworks.
Leadership Insight: Builds authenticity by aligning DEI with leadership practices and enhances resilience through cross-sector learning.
5. Shifting Mindsets for Culture Change
What It’s About: How shifting biases and attitudes fosters organizational transformation.
Presenter: Tynan Allan
Takeaways:Techniques to challenge ingrained mindsets and behaviors.
The role of leadership in driving cultural change.
Steps to create an inclusive, forward-thinking workplace.
Leadership Insight: Promotes inclusive growth by addressing cultural biases and builds resilience by embracing change.
6. Global Insights, Local Impact: Mastering Cultural Agility
What It’s About: Building intercultural skills to create inclusive and respectful workplaces.
Presenter: Dr. Susan Murray
Takeaways:Understanding key cultural differences and how they shape workplace dynamics.
Developing practical skills for cultural agility.
Enhancing workplace inclusivity by valuing diverse perspectives.
Leadership Insight: Fosters inclusive leadership by embracing cultural diversity and builds authenticity through culturally aware practices.
7. Handling Bias with Balance: Navigating Customer Interactions with Accountability and Care
What It’s About: Strategies to recognize and mitigate bias in customer interactions.
Presenter: TBC
Takeaways:Identifying biases that impact customer experiences.
Practical tools for addressing bias with care and accountability.
Building trust and fairness in customer relationships.
Leadership Insight: Promotes authenticity by committing to fair practices and builds resilience by addressing bias with confidence.
8. Rise Strong: Embracing Courage and Resilience in Leadership
What It’s About: Leading with vulnerability, authenticity, and strength in the face of challenges.
Presenter: Dee McWatters
Takeaways:The power of vulnerability in building authentic connections.
Tools to foster resilience and inspire others during uncertainty.
Strategies for leading courageously in challenging environments.
Leadership Insight: Enhances resilience through bold leadership and demonstrates authenticity by embracing vulnerability.
9. Everyday Commitment: Showing Up for Your Team
What It’s About: Building trust and alignment by showing up consistently for your team.
Presenter: Nicole Middleton
Takeaways:The importance of reliability in leadership.
Aligning actions with values to deepen team trust.
Strategies to foster loyalty and connection through consistent engagement.
Leadership Insight: Builds authenticity through consistent actions and strengthens inclusive leadership by prioritizing team well-being.
10. Sawubona: Unlocking Connection Through the Power of Presence
What It’s About: Exploring the power of recognition and presence to foster inclusivity and connection.
Presenter: Harriet Tinka
Takeaways:Understanding the African concept of "Sawubona" and its impact on relationships.
Tools to make others feel seen and valued in personal and professional contexts.
Strategies to transform organizational culture through acknowledgment.
Leadership Insight: Strengthens authenticity by valuing others deeply and fosters inclusivity through genuine connections.
11. Rekindling Identity: Indigenous Leadership and the Quest for Belonging
What It’s About: Centering cultural identity and belonging in Indigenous leadership.
Presenter: Stephanie Anaka
Takeaways:Exploring the interplay of tradition and modernity in Indigenous leadership.
The importance of cultural identity in fostering belonging.
Bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary practices.
Leadership Insight: Demonstrates authenticity by honoring cultural identity and fosters resilience by embracing diverse leadership styles.
12. Inclusive Leadership in Action: A Guide for Change-Makers
What It’s About: Practical strategies to operationalize inclusive leadership.
Presenter: Matteo Stewart
Takeaways:Overcoming barriers to inclusivity.
Building equitable systems for team success.
Aligning leadership practices with inclusive values.
Leadership Insight: Strengthens authenticity through values-driven leadership and promotes inclusive growth.
13. Breaking Barriers: Ensuring Accessibility for Everyone
What It’s About: Designing accessible spaces and policies to support inclusivity.
Presenter: Brad Bartko
Takeaways:Identifying barriers to accessibility and addressing them effectively.
Practical steps for fostering inclusion for individuals with disabilities.
Building policies and spaces that empower everyone.
Leadership Insight: Fosters inclusivity through accessibility and strengthens authenticity by addressing systemic barriers.
14. Mind Matters: Integrating Mental Wellness into EDI and Self-Care
What It’s About: Balancing self-care and EDI work to sustain mental wellness in leadership.
Presenter: Shazia Amiri
Takeaways:Understanding the intersection of mental health and equity.
Tools for prioritizing self-care while leading inclusively.
Strategies to sustain mental wellness in diverse teams.
Leadership Insight: Builds resilience by promoting wellness and demonstrates authenticity by prioritizing balance.
14. Pulling the Chute: How Your "WHY" Defines You as a Leader
What It’s About: Understanding your core "why" to guide authentic and purpose-driven leadership.
Presenter: Jeff Sesol and Denise Young
Takeaways:The importance of aligning leadership actions with personal purpose.
Strategies to identify and articulate your "why" for greater clarity and impact.
Tools to inspire and motivate teams by leading with purpose.
Leadership Insight: Builds authenticity by grounding leadership in personal values and strengthens resilience by fostering purpose-driven decision-making.
Round Tables
1. Blueprint for Belonging: Crafting Inclusive Policies That Work
What It’s About: Designing policies that align with inclusive organizational goals.
Facilitator: : Tiffany Connauton
Takeaways:Practical tools to create effective inclusive policies.
Strategies for aligning policies with organizational goals.
Methods for measuring the success of inclusion initiatives.
Leadership Insight: Builds inclusive leadership by embedding equity into policy design and demonstrates authenticity through intentional action.
2. Mentorship That Matters: Building Programs for Real Impact
What It’s About: Designing mentorship programs that drive lasting, meaningful outcomes for mentees and organizations.
Facilitator: Harriet Tinka
Takeaways:Identifying key elements of impactful mentorship programs.
Strategies to create inclusive, equitable mentorship opportunities.
Tools to measure and sustain mentorship success.
Leadership Insight: Strengthens inclusive leadership by empowering diverse talent and enhances authenticity through intentional mentorship practices.
3. Safe Spaces, Strong Teams: Fostering Psychological Safety in Inclusive Spaces
What It’s About: Creating environments where employees feel empowered to show up authentically and take interpersonal risks.
Facilitator: Ruthann Weeks
Takeaways:Understanding the role of trust in psychological safety.
Techniques to address intersectional diversity in workplace dynamics.
Strategies to evaluate and measure success in creating safe spaces.
Leadership Insight: Promotes resilience by supporting team growth and strengthens inclusivity by ensuring diverse voices are protected and valued.
4. Unlocking Authenticity: Overcome What Holds You Back as a Leader
What It’s About: Identifying and addressing barriers to leading authentically.
Facilitator: Navneet Scheie
Takeaways:Tools to uncover and address personal limitations in leadership.
Strategies to cultivate confidence and authenticity in decision-making.
Practical techniques to align leadership actions with core values.
Leadership Insight: Builds authenticity by fostering self-awareness and enhances resilience by confronting challenges with confidence.
5. Room to Grow: Building Adaptive, Diverse Spaces for Innovation
What It’s About: Leveraging diversity and adaptability to foster innovation in teams and organizations.
Facilitator: Alex Ibbotson
Takeaways:Understanding the connection between diversity and innovation.
Techniques to build adaptable teams that thrive on diverse perspectives.
Tools to foster creativity and collaboration in diverse spaces.
Leadership Insight: Promotes inclusive leadership by embracing diverse inputs and builds resilience by fostering adaptability in dynamic environments.
6. Speak Your Truth: Mastering Communication for Authentic Connections
What It’s About: Developing self-awareness and communication skills to build genuine, impactful relationships.
Facilitator: Irma Vartanian
Takeaways:The role of self-awareness in effective communication.
Practical tools for clear, confident, and authentic expression.
Techniques to navigate challenging conversations with empathy.
Leadership Insight: Builds authenticity by aligning communication with core values and fosters resilience by improving relational trust.
7. From Values to Profits: Making DEI a Core Business Strategy
What It’s About: Embedding DEI principles into business strategies to drive innovation and long-term success.
Facilitator: Chantha Nhem
Takeaways:Quantitative insights and ROIs for successful DEI buy-in.
Effective DEI strategies for organizational transformation.
Overcoming challenges in executing DEI initiatives.
Leadership Insight: Enhances inclusive leadership by aligning DEI with business priorities and demonstrates authenticity through commitment to equitable practices.
8. Authentic Leadership in Action: Agile & Neuroscience Techniques for Lasting Change
What It’s About: Using neuroscience and agile methods to implement meaningful change as a leader.
Facilitator: TBC
Takeaways:Agile techniques for fostering sustainable, lasting change.
Neuroscience-driven tools for reducing resistance and enhancing collaboration.
Principles of authentic leadership to inspire trust and drive success.
Leadership Insight: Builds resilience by embracing innovative strategies and strengthens authenticity by fostering trust in the change process.
9. Neurodiversity Unplugged: Truths Every Workplace Needs to Hear
What It’s About: Creating neuroinclusive workplaces by valuing and supporting diverse ways of thinking.
Facilitator: Tara Langan
Takeaways:Normalizing and embracing neurodiversity in workplace dynamics.
Practical tools to support neurodivergent individuals effectively.
Empathy mapping exercises to foster understanding and inclusion.
Leadership Insight: Promotes inclusive leadership by valuing diverse cognitive approaches and demonstrates authenticity by leading with empathy and understanding.
10. Resiliency in Leadership: Driving DEI with Strength and Purpose
What It’s About: Equipping individual leaders with the resilience needed to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the face of challenges and resistance.
Facilitator: Sherilyn Trompetter
Takeaways:
Understanding how personal resilience enhances a leader’s ability to drive DEI efforts.
Strategies to navigate setbacks, maintain focus, and inspire others in advancing DEI goals.
Practical tools for building emotional intelligence and fostering authentic, inclusive leadership practices.
Leadership Insight:
Strengthens leaders’ ability to persevere in challenging DEI environments, deepens their commitment to equity, and enhances their capacity to build trust and inclusion through resilient, purpose-driven action.