Schedule of Events

Network with fellow senior communicators, hear from inspiring speakers, and take part in practical, thought-provoking conversations.

We’re excited to announce that Charlotte Otter will deliver a keynote at the Heads of Communication SIG Breakfast Sunday 8 June 2025 at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver.

Charlotte is the former VP of Communications at SAP and  author. Her first business book, We Need New Leaders, will be published in June 2025.

With over 20 years of experience including leading global communications teams, advising C-suite leaders and building high-performing comms functions she’s built a reputation as a bold, strategic voice in leadership and communication.

As well as hearing from Charlotte Otter we’ve got a fantastic panel of senior communicators from across the regions, who will be sharing their thoughts on the current issues facing communicators.   The breakfast will include interactive roundtable discussions on the big issues shaping our profession today: trust, reputation, and leadership.

These facilitated conversations will give you the chance to share experiences, exchange ideas, and explore how we can shift from tactical delivery to strategic influence in our roles.

It’s a rare opportunity to connect with fellow in house communicators from around the world. This is a session you won’t want to miss.

AI is transforming industries, organizations, functions, processes, and the roles of those who communicate and lead change.

While technical capabilities evolve rapidly, organizational adoption and individual integration are lagging. Join Tim Creasey, Chief Innovation Officer at Prosci for a seminar and interactive workshop to explore trailblazing research and leave with insights you can apply immediately.

During the session, you will uncover the key conditions that enable or hinder successful AI adoption and use the Prosci ADKAR Model to chart a smarter path forward. You’ll also dive into insights from change professionals who are already integrating AI to do their work at a higher quality, in less time, with less mental strain, and with more enjoyment.

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to network with peers while connecting research insights to your AI journey. 

Additional Registration Required

Culture is influencing your team and organization’s success in ways that are often invisible but undeniably powerful. It’s the driving force behind team performance, engagement, trust, safety and connection. Yet, too often, culture is left to be experienced and interpreted by your people rather than being crafted intentionally and communicated explicitly.

In this train-the-trainer style masterclass, global culture and leadership expert Shane Michael Hatton will equip you with a tested conversation framework to shape your team or organizational culture with purpose. Backed by research with over 1,000 frontline managers, Shane’s approach combines insight with action — helping you understand, design and sustain the culture you want in your team or business.

Whether you’re a seasoned communication leader or consultant, this interactive session provides practical tools to elevate your influence and build a culture that lasts. You’ll leave this masterclass with more than just theory. You’ll have a roadmap to design, embed and sustain the culture your team, organization or clients need to thrive.

Interested in thought leadership for your organization but unsure where to start? Already producing some thought leadership but want to refine and scale your approach?

Whether you're a leader, communicator, marketer, or consultant exploring thought leadership, or part of a team looking to turn internal knowledge into publishable insights, this interactive, 3-hour masterclass will equip you with the strategy and structure you need.

You’ll learn how to uncover and articulate your best ideas, engage subject-matter experts, and establish a repeatable process that drives influence, leads, and credibility—both for your organization and your own career.

Join Rhea Wessel, author of Write Like a Thought Leader and founder of the Institute for Thought Leadership, for a live, interactive masterclass on how to design, launch, and sustain a strategic thought-leadership initiative.

You’ll also hear from Peter Evans, CEO of ExpertFile, who will share award-winning case studies that reveal the secrets to creating successful thought leadership programs that promote your subject-matter experts as industry voices.  He’ll show you how organizations of all sizes are embracing this new trend of “expertise marketing” to build reach, relationships, reputation, and revenue.

While you don’t need new technology to begin, we’ll also discuss how AI and digital tools are already transforming how organizations accelerate and scale their thought leadership programs through better positioning, content creation, internal adoption and results measurement.

Why This Matters for Your Career

Leading or contributing to a thought leadership program is a powerful career accelerator. It positions you as a strategic communicator, an internal influencer, and an expert in shaping industry conversations. Whether you’re looking to increase your executive visibility, build your personal brand, or open new professional opportunities, mastering thought leadership strategy can set you apart.

What You’ll Learn:

✅ Why thought leadership matters—how it drives market influence, sales leads, and reputation for both organizations and individual careers

✅ How to structure a program—the key roles and repeatable processes that make thought leadership work
✅ How to activate your subject-matter experts—getting the best thinking out of your teams and turning it into compelling insights

✅ How AI makes thought leadership easier—from uncovering ideas to generating content and securing internal buy-in
✅ How to overcome internal resistance—strategies to get buy-in and sustain momentum

Instructors:

🔹 Rhea Wessel – Founder of The Institute for Thought Leadership and author of Write Like a Thought Leader. Rhea helps organizations operationalize thought leadership through program design an execution that systematizes the way experts generate, develop, and share their best ideas. She is a regular contributor to Forbes.com.

🔹 Peter Evans – Founder of ExpertFile and an expert in executing thought leadership programs at scale and promoting internal subject-matter experts to build market influence.  He has developed many successful thought-leadership programs with clients in technology, consulting, healthcare and higher education to win multiple IABC awards.

Additonal Registration Required

In this interactive 3-hour master class, Sean Alexander, a Microsoft veteran responsible for the first OpenAI partnership and leader in AI innovation, will guide participants through the transformative impact of Generative AI (GenAI) on business communication. This session will offer a mix of foundational knowledge and hands-on tools to help business communicators leverage GenAI to enhance their communication strategies.

During this Master Class, we will cover:

• The latest evolutions of GenAI and its current role in business communication.
• The ethical considerations of using AI-generated content, focusing on transparency and accuracy.
• Advanced GenAI tools for content creation, customer interaction, and internal communication.
• Best practices for automating workflows and optimizing customer service using AI-driven tools.
• Future trends in GenAI that will shape the future of business communication.

What You Will Take Away from the Session:

• A deep understanding of how GenAI is transforming business communication and its applications across various domains.
• Practical knowledge of advanced AI tools for content creation, tone adjustment, visual design, and workflow automation.
• Insights into how AI can optimize internal communication, meeting management, and decision-making processes.
• A toolkit for articulating to C-Suite leaders the ROI of integrating transparent and ethical AI practices into your business, emphasizing long-term strategy and brand reputation with real-world examples of what to do (and not to do).

All participants will come away with a comprehensive understanding of how to use GenAI to drive innovation and efficiency in your business communication efforts.

Additional Registration Required

What does it take to be a successful leader in PR and communications? Confidence, creativity, curiosity, and courage—four key competencies that will set future leaders apart. This interactive workshop will challenge you to step outside your comfort zone, embrace new challenges, and think like an improviser.

Led by USC professor and former Golin Chairman Fred Cook, this session is inspired by his book, Improvise: Unorthodox Career Advice from an Unlikely CEO. Fred will share unconventional career lessons from his own journey—starting as a cabin boy, doorman, and tour guide before rising to lead one of the world’s top public relations firms. Along the way, you’ll gain insights from visionary leaders like Steve Jobs, Jeff Bezos, and Herb Kelleher, while discovering new tools to grow your own leadership potential.

Walk away with fresh perspectives, practical strategies, and the confidence to take your career—and your leadership—to the next level.

Join IABC communication professionals from around the world to work hand-in-hand with nonprofits to tackle their most pressing challenges. Register here.

Ready to earn your CMP or SCMP certification and take your career to the next level? The GCCC Certification Bootcamp, hosted by the Centre for Strategic Communication Excellence (CSCE), is your fast-track, deep-dive, no-fluff prep experience. This intensive 3.5-hour session is designed for committed candidates who want to sharpen their exam technique, build confidence, and deepen their understanding of the Global Standard. With only 30 places available, you’ll benefit from expert coaching, practical insights, and personalized guidance that sets you up for success.

As part of your registration, you’ll receive a complimentary copy of the official GCCC Study Guide – a comprehensive resource to support your exam preparation and long-term professional growth.

What you’ll walk away with:

• A clear grasp of the Global Standard and what it means to be a strategic communication professional
• Enhanced skills in strategic communication management and ethical decision-making
• Proven exam strategies and tools to tackle the CMP and SCMP certifications with confidence
• A roadmap for ongoing professional growth, with guidance on using the study guide effectively

Join us at the IABC World Conference in Vancouver for the first in-person meetup of the new Crisis Communications Shared Interest Group—a global community for communicators navigating high-stakes challenges. Led by Natalia Smalyuk, advisor, trainer, and founder of NBAU (Not Business As Usual), a Toronto-based consultancy specializing in crisis resilience and strategic communication, this new SIG will offer a space to connect with peers, share insights, and shape the future of crisis communication excellence. Light refreshments will be provided! 

Join fellow communication consultants for a structured yet relaxed 'speed networking' event exclusively for our Consultants SIG community! Meet and connect with peers who understand the unique world of independent consulting in a format designed to spark conversation and build relationships. Whether you’re seeking collaboration, insights, or simply good company, this session offers a welcoming space to expand your professional circle. All IABC members are welcome, with special focus on consultants and independent professionals. Please arrive between 3-3:20 p.m. to settle in so we can start at 3:25 p.m. on the dot!

Looking for an in-person opportunity to discuss IABC with fellow members? Consider attending our in-person Member Forum on Sunday 8 June at 5 p.m. PT at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver (655 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2R7, Canada), just before the World Conference 2025 Welcome Reception!

End your day at our networking event where refreshments and hors d'oeuvres will be provided.

The celebration doesn’t stop when the Welcome Reception ends! If you're a member, stick around in the Pacific Ballroom for an exclusive Karaoke Night just for you.

Whether you’re ready to take the mic or just want to cheer on your colleagues, it’s the perfect way to kick off the conference in style.

Open to members only. No registration required.

Ease into your conference day with a grounding Hatha yoga session led by Judy Swens, a Yoga Alliance certified instructor (E-RYT 200). Designed to awaken both mind and body, this all-levels class will guide you through mindful movement, breathwork, and gentle stretching — helping you feel centred, refreshed, and ready to take on a full day of learning, networking, and inspiration.

Join us in the morning for this rejuvenating experience, and give yourself the gift of a calm, focused start to each day of the IABC World Conference. Sign up here.

Disclaimer: Please note that yoga mats will not be provided for this session. We recommend bringing your own mat or using a towel from your hotel room as a substitute.

Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast and great conversations with fellow attendees while recoginzing the IABC award winners.

In a world drowning in data, why do most organizations still make decisions based on things "feel"? We'll dig into this head-scratching reality and show how the best companies actually put their data to work - no fancy technology required. We'll look at how you can turn overwhelming amounts of numbers into clear stories that actually drive action across teams that may speak very different languages. With plenty of practical examples and proven approaches, you'll learn how to make data digestible, relatable, and most importantly, useful in driving real decisions. This is all about making data work for people, not the other way around.

Drawing from groundbreaking research published in "Unpacking Micro-Influence within the Australian Creative Sectors" (Harrison, 2024), this session introduces a practical framework for building authentic digital connections in today's complex communication landscape. Participants will discover evidence-based strategies for fostering meaningful engagement across digital platforms by examining five essential dimensions of digital influence—network characteristics, personal attributes, content creation, strategic approaches, and generated outcomes. This research-backed approach challenges conventional wisdom about digital communication while providing actionable tools for immediate implementation. Ideal for strategic communicators seeking to enhance their digital engagement through empirically validated techniques that balance global reach with local relevance.

• Apply the five-dimensional theoretical framework to assess and enhance their organization's digital communication strategy.
• Develop content strategies that authentically connect with audiences while maintaining professional credibility.
• Implement measurement approaches that evaluate both quantitative reach and qualitative relationship strength.

Manipulation or persuasion? Heighten your awareness of how time-old techniques influence combined with new sophisticated new technology, persuade and manipulate you in the workplace, online, and societally. How can you connect and persuade others as a communicator, knowing you are wielding your skills with ethical precision?  In this illuminating session you'll see how key brands wield their marketing power through big-brand examples and insights from technical experts who get paid to manipulate you. As you climb the ladder and work with different leaders and in different teams, these insights will help raise the flags for psychologically unsafe environments and situations where you might be manipulated to go against your better judgment.  With this knowledge, you'll feel more confident to identify where the dark arts are acting upon you and how you want to play your game.

• Identify different techniques, in the workplace, online, and in marketing, which aim to manipulate them.
• Contemplate different strategies to mitigate this so they can make conscious choices.
• Confidently connect and communicate with integrity—spot and avoid manipulation of others in the business world.

Leaders are most comfortable communicating according to their own cultural norms, and they rarely consider that those approaches might actually create negative impressions in other cultures. This session involves participants first assessing their own cultural communication profile using a standardized tool developed by culture experts. The rest of the session identifies how differently they and their leaders might need to communicate in Town Halls conducted in various countries because of cultural differences in terms of egalitarianism/hierarchy, group focus, time orientation, work/life balance and other cultural norms. The session will cover how various practical aspects of Town Halls need to be adapted based on these differing cultural norms, including: · Planning the meeting, including the timing and room set-up considerations · The ideal tone/ambience of the meeting, including what, if anything, to do before the meeting actually starts · Introductions of executives conducting the meeting · The opening comments made by an executive · Content of what is covered in the presentation portion of the meeting · How to handle a question-and-answer session · A call to action

• Assess your and your CEO's cultural communication profile.
• Adapt communication approaches when speaking in countries with cultural norms very different from their own.
• Share your organization's vision and plans for achieving it with employees all over the world.

Mastering Your Personal Brand in a Connected World. In today's hyper-connected world, where technology and channels of communication are ever-evolving, establishing a strong personal brand is more important than ever. This session will provide a step-by-step guide to strategically crafting and amplifying your personal brand using the power of AI. Through practical exercises and compelling case studies, you'll learn actionable strategies to make your brand stand out. Integrating cutting-edge AI tools and tips, this presentation will empower you to leverage technology for maximum impact. Whether you're a seasoned professional, just starting out or working with your leader to build their thought leadership platform, this session will equip you with the knowledge and skills to develop a strategic brand that helps you connect with your desired internal and external audiences.

• Develop a personal brand strategy aligned to their (or their leader's) goals and objectives.
• Leverage the power of AI to develop their brand and build consistent, compelling content.
• Use their (or their leaders) personal brand to connect with internal and external audiences.

Frontline workers are the backbone of any organization, yet they are often the most disconnected. Effective internal communication is not just a “nice-to-have” but a critical driver of engagement, retention, and profitability. By understanding the true cost of disengagement and leveraging strategic communication tools, organizations can transform their frontline workforce into a competitive advantage.

Join Daren Jennings, CCO of Speakap and Lynn Zimmerman, CEO of Swing Communications for an interactive, tactical session to address these challenges head on.

By the end of this session, you’ll be able to challenge outdated assumptions about frontline communication, make a business case for investing in it, and apply a simple framework to measure your impact. 

This is a Solution Provider Session brought to you by Speakap.

Fuel up for the rest of the day with lunch provided by IABC.

Join us for a delicious lunch – and even tastier insights! Our experts, Annika Cannon and Annika Krietenstein, will share the latest trends in internal communications, real-world success stories, and cutting-edge innovations in AI and email newsletters. This engaging session is perfect for anyone seeking fresh communication tactics or exploring what a best-in-class employee experience platform can offer. Come hungry for knowledge and leave with actionable ideas for transforming your digital workplace.

AI is no longer just hype — it’s in your tools, your inbox, and your strategy meetings. But for internal comms pros, the big question is: what needs to actually change?

This session is for the realists — those juggling strategy and execution while navigating what AI means for their role. We’ll cover three essential skills for comms leaders, where AI helps (and where it doesn’t), and how to scale trust without losing the human touch.

Walk away with a practical framework, peer insights, and space to ask the hard questions — so you can lead with clarity in a rapidly shifting landscape.

Register here.

There have literally been hundreds of books written about "leadership communication." But very little has been written, or even said, about the role of communication professionals as leaders in our organizations and communities. This session is an opportunity for us to flip the script - to change the conversation about the leadership we can provide, and also about how we can move up the organizational ladder into senior leadership positions. Featuring leaders who have taken the step to move from communication roles to leadership positions in organizations and communities, this discussion will:

• Share insights from each of our career trajectories.
• Delve into specific techniques for engaging C-suite leaders about the importance of communication and its role as a strategy lever.
• Provide actionable opportunities for communication leaders at all levels to take initiative to raise their leadership game as influencers and advocates.
• Invite participants to commit to expand their mindset so that they can see themselves as leaders in their current roles.

A common thread will be the power we as communication leaders have to drive connection within our organizations and communities, and how to position ourselves as being central to the web of connections and conversations we catalyze.

• Recognize leadership element of your current role and shift your mindset accordingly.
• Get tangible insights about actions you can take to be seen as leaders and as "leadership material".
• Discover how to drive connections within organizations and communities.

This breakout session will delve into the essential practices of Responsible AI, with a focus on ethics, transparency, and the latest global regulatory landscape. Drawing from real-world experience, practical and tested resources, we’ll explore how to responsibly deploy AI, ensuring alignment with both internal ethics committees and external regulations. Topics include the EU AI Act, evolving US federal requirements and executive orders, and the importance of transparency when using AI in larger projects and services. Attendees will also learn strategies for reacting when things don’t go as planned, addressing AI risks, and ensuring ethical compliance across borders.

• Understand the core principles of Responsible AI, including ethics, transparency, and compliance with global regulatory frameworks.
• Develop practical strategies for deploying AI responsibly, aligning with internal ethics committees, and addressing risks when projects deviate from expectations.
• Gain insights into managing cross-border ethical compliance and enhancing transparency when integrating AI into larger projects and services.

Leading teams through change can be challenging. Emotions run high, resistance builds, and motivation can drop. However, change does not just come from well-structured plans; it also comes from managing the emotional energy of people.  You can’t change an organization without changing the individuals within it. Although organizational and individual change coexist, they’re not the same. Shifting a system is one thing, but shifting the hearts and minds of those who make up that system is another challenge.  In this interactive session, Zora will explore SCARF – a brain-based framework that helps communication professionals understand and leverage emotional drivers to foster genuine connections during change. People feel engaged when these needs are met; when they aren’t, people resist. Using practical examples, participants will learn how to transform resistance into engagement and navigate change with empathy, resilience, and impact.  This session will include exercises to recognize emotional triggers, and peer discussions to apply these concepts immediately. Practical takeaways will include connecting emotional insights with well-known change management models and tailoring communications to tackle difficult conversations. Communication professionals will leave equipped with practical tools to enhance their change strategies and effectively advise leaders, creating environments where teams feel valued, empowered, and connected.

• Recognize emotional triggers using a brain-based model and understand how these emotions influence resistance and engagement during change.
• Implement communication strategies that leverage emotional drivers to create a sense of certainty, autonomy, and fairness during change initiatives.
• Strenghten skills in initiating difficult conversations by applying emotional insights to manage resistance and foster understanding.

We need a new approach to employee communication. One that delivers genuine connection based on creating conversation and active listening.   This session will help you maximise your impact as you transform your communications strategy. With actionable insights, practical tools and proven strategies you will be able to reshape and refocus your internal communications as you move from content creation and channel management to create genuine connection and community.   Research tells us that only 23% of global employees are engaged at work. It confirms that the ways we typically communicate to employees have hardly changed over 20 years. The old ways are not working and we need a new approach.  ‘Leading the Listening Organisation’ was published in December 2023. It is the first book to focus on listening to employees. It explains how we’re entering a new Age of Listening and how listening to employees is critical in creating organisations that flourish.   As well as sharing lessons from some of the latest thinking, co-author Howard Krais will encourage attendees to consider how they can transform the impact they have and the value they deliver as they rethink their approach, focusing on better connection through dialogue and listening.

• Expand about how to best connect with internal audiences to maximize impact in the organization.
• Recognize what listening to employees means and implement plans for real listening in your organization.
• Champion the importance of listening and recognize the obstacles that get in the way, and how to overcome them.

AI is transforming industries, organizations, functions, processes, and the roles of those who communicate and lead change, tasked with crafting narratives that turn uncertainty into understanding and resistance into readiness. How does your organization stack up against the conditions that drive AI adoption success?

Prosci, the global leader of change management methodology and solutions, recently completed research on how AI adoption was working - and not working - at the individual, team, and organizational levels. In this engaging, interactive session, you will learn about these key success factors while completing an assessment using the research-based diagnostic.

This is a Solution Provider Session brought to you by Prosci. 

• Access exclusive insights from our AI adoption study, revealing the factors differentiating successful implementations.
• Develop enhanced confidence in navigating AI adoption challenges through evidence-based approaches proven across multiple industries.
• Leave with practical strategies for improving AI adoption, based on empirical data from organizations that have successfully navigated similar transformations.

Is Gen Z rewriting the rules of workplace communication? How can communication leaders effectively engage with this new generation that accounts for nearly a third of the workforce? What on earth is “rizz”?

In “Gen Z Uncensored,” you’ll get the information and tools you need you to bridge generational divides, fine-tune your messaging, and create meaningful connections with this digitally savvy and socially conscious generation. Walk away with a deeper understanding of Gen Z and the confidence you need to lead conversations that engage them authentically and effectively. We’ll explore the values and motivations that drive Gen Z, including their perspectives on technology, social issues, and work-life balance. This session is essential for creating a dynamic and inclusive environment where every generation, especially Gen Z, feels valued and motivated to contribute to the success of the business.

• Understand Gen Z’s unique workplace expectations and communication preferences -- backed by the latest research.
• Develop practical strategies to craft messaging and approaches that resonate with their digital-first and purpose-driven mindset.
• Gain actionable tools to foster authentic connections and effectively bridge generational divides in the workplace.

In today’s complex communication landscape, meaningful connections are more essential—and challenging—than ever. As AI transforms our workplaces, leaders with strong executive presence remain vital to bridging the gap between technology and human connection. This interactive session will help you cultivate the qualities of executive presence: credibility, confidence, composure and physical presence, empowering you to foster authentic connections that drive influence and inspire action.  Research shows that executive presence accounts for 26% of what it takes to earn promotion. Communication professionals, especially those aspiring to roles like Chief Communications Officer, must demonstrate high-level competence, inspire confidence, and lead with a presence that AI simply cannot emulate. Through real-time practice and peer feedback, you’ll learn how to use your communication skills to convey leadership potential, connect across diverse audiences, and navigate a globally dynamic environment.  In high-performing organizations, leadership presence is not only a competency but a strategic advantage in the hiring process and annual reviews. Companies recognize that AI alone can't inspire; only human leaders with strong presence can rally teams, shape perceptions, and drive impact.  Join us to explore how executive presence empowers you not just to communicate, but to connect.

• Assess the impact of their leadership behaviors on others.
• Project confidence and authenticity as a future senior executive.
• Foster the kinds of connections that only human leaders can create.

Your readers are bombarded with the data equivalent of 174 newspapers — ads included — every day, according to a study by USC’s Annenberg School for Communication.  In this environment, how do you CONNECT! with your readers? How do you grab their attention and move them to act?  In this breakout session, you’ll learn how to Think Like a Reader. You’ll find out how to write more engaging, persuasive messages.  In this persuasive-writing workshop, you’ll learn a three-step process for making your message more relevant, valuable and interesting to your audience.   You'll learn how to write the message your readers want to read — instead of the message you WISH they wanted to read.  Specifically, you'll learn how to:  * Make a two-minute perspective shift to focus your message on the readers’ best interest. * Make your message more relevant to readers with the most popular word in the English language (Hint: It isn’t free or sex!) * Use AI to better connect with your audience. Yes, a robot can help you understand humans better!

• Cut through the clutter of competing messages with the formula people use to determine which messages to pay attention to.
• Boost audience interest with two rewards of reading.
• Answer the No. 1 question readers are asking.

As organizations navigate the complexities of return-to-work and hybrid work models, bridging digital and physical workspaces has become a critical challenge. This session will explore key findings from recent research on return-to-work trends, hybrid work dynamics, and the role of emerging technologies in shaping employee engagement. 

Attendees will discover how tools like digital signage, personalized communication platforms, and mobile-first solutions are transforming how we connect with employees, regardless of their location. We will also dive into the importance of personalization in communication—tailoring messages to specific roles, preferences, and work environments to foster deeper engagement. 

Join us to learn how combining digital and physical touchpoints can create a seamless employee experience that supports collaboration, inclusivity, and culture, ultimately drives an improved customer experience for businesses.

• Understand the key trends and challenges in return-to-work and hybrid work models, and their impact on employee engagement.
• Discover how emerging technologies, such as digital signage and mobile-first platforms, can be leveraged to enhance communication across different work environments.
• Gain insights into effective communication personalization strategies that foster deeper employee engagement and inclusivity across digital and physical channels.

Join this engaging and interactive session designed to foster meaningful connections. Through dynamic roundtable discussions, you'll have the opportunity to share insights, exchange ideas, and collaborate with peers facing similar challenges and opportunities. Whether you're seeking fresh perspectives, actionable strategies, or new professional relationships, this networking session will empower you to build lasting connections and expand your professional community.

End your day with wonderful food and conversations at the Region Receptions.

Ease into your conference day with a grounding Hatha yoga session led by Judy Swens, a Yoga Alliance certified instructor (E-RYT 200). Designed to awaken both mind and body, this all-levels class will guide you through mindful movement, breathwork, and gentle stretching — helping you feel centred, refreshed, and ready to take on a full day of learning, networking, and inspiration.

Join us in the morning for this rejuvenating experience, and give yourself the gift of a calm, focused start to each day of the IABC World Conference. Sign up here.

Disclaimer: Please note that yoga mats will not be provided for this session. We recommend bringing your own mat or using a towel from your hotel room as a substitute.

Would you like to gather with communicators in the healthcare space at World Conference? 

We’re excited to offer an opportunity for IABC’s healthcare-focused communicators to join a special session. On Tuesday, June 10, we’ll gather for a networking breakfast and dive deep into a topic that impacts all healthcare communications: Building Public Trust and Countering Misinformation in a ‘post truth’ world.

Join the Health SIG for a special preview of Chelsea Siler presentation and apply the learnings to the healthcare environment.

In addition, we’ll have plenty of time for networking and sharing our current opportunities and challenges with colleagues from the healthcare sector.

Register through the IABC World Conference here. Hope to see you there!

Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast and great conversations with fellow attendees.

This spring, the USC Center for Public Relations conducted its 10th annual Global Communication Survey in partnership with IABC and Zeno Group. The survey explored artificial intelligence, hybrid and remote work, the media landscape, and political polarization and their effects on the communication profession. The research also adds to last year's study about the evolving workplace (“Communicating Culture”). USC professor and Golin chairman emeritus Fred Cook will lead a discussion to present the results, highlight the differences in perceptions between communication veterans and entry-level specialists regarding our profession, and prompt reflection on the changes occurring in workplaces.

If you want to really connect with your audiences, and connect them to big ideas, then you need to understand how our brains work, how we think, and why we do the things we do ... even if they seem irrational!

That might seem like a lot, but in reality, just a few simple tweaks of the language we use and how we share our messages can make all the difference.

In this session, you'll learn about the core behavioural science techniques you can apply to your communication to really connect with your audiences, so you can change hearts and minds.  

Come away with practical tips you can start using right away to make your communication more effective than ever before.

You'll even get to participate in a live experiment!

This session is for senior communicators if you are ready to level up your communications, and demonstrate the value you add to your organisation's strategic goals.

• Explain how human brains work, and how that impacts our communication.
• Use a selection of behavioral science techniques to connect to audiences more effectively.
• Influence more effectively through communication with a few simple behavioral science insights.

Here’s your chance to be part of the studio audience for the first-ever live webcast of the monthly IABC Circle of Fellows. IABC Fellows Shel Holtz and Brad Whitworth will moderate Episode 117 -- an interactive conversation with a panel featuring some of our newest IABC Fellows, along with other IABC Fellows from around the world. In 45 minutes, they’ll reveal the challenges facing communication professionals in the last five years of the decade, including such hot topics as AI, disinformation, corporate culture, return to work, and much more.  The Fellows panel – collectively representing hundreds of years of communication expertise -- will also take questions from the audience. Here’s your chance to engage with some of the world’s brightest and most experienced communication leaders during this lively, informative, fun and fast-paced webcast.   The Fellow is the highest honor IABC bestows on members who have had a significant impact not only on their organizations and IABC, but also on the communication profession. Just over 100 IABC members have earned this designation since its inception in 1970.

• Identify key challenges shaping the future of the communication profession.
• Hear diverse perspectives from globally recognized IABC Fellows.
• Engage in real-time dialogue with experienced communication leaders.

Compared to 2022, 43% of Canadians report having greater difficulty distinguishing between true and false information. It also doesn’t help that the list of corporations reducing or ending their DEI programs continues to grow, and social media platforms abandon fact-checking. DEI is under attack, and identifying misinformation has become more challenging than ever. This is the conscious communicator’s nightmare! 
The 519, Canada’s largest 2SLGBTQ+ multi-service agency, witnesses firsthand how misinformation is being weaponized against marginalized communities. Through their advocacy and communications leadership, they continue to develop innovative ways to counter harmful rhetoric while fostering safety and allyship.
Join The 519's communications team as they highlight the impact of misinformation on marginalized communities and share valuable strategies to navigate the war on DEI initiatives. Drawing from real examples, they’ll provide actionable tactics for discerning fact from fiction and fostering community resilience; critical skills for all communicators.

• Understand the role and difference between misinformation and disinformation in audience and brand trust.
• Identify strategies to counter misinformation through real-life examples.
• Outline essential dos and don’ts for crafting an effective strategy to combat misinformation.

In today’s world, connection is everything. Whether you’re presenting to a client, leading a team, or pitching a bold new idea, connecting authentically with confidence and clarity is the key to standing out.  In this interactive session, participants will discover how to transform everyday experiences into powerful stories that inspire action, foster trust, and build meaningful connections. Drawing from my journey of overcoming a stutter to become an international speaker, I’ll share practical strategies to craft and deliver compelling narratives with confidence and authenticity.  This is not just a lecture—attendees will roll up their sleeves to create and share their own stories in real time. By the end of the session, every participant will have a polished story ready to use in their professional life.  

Key takeaways include:   

• A simple framework for crafting impactful stories that connect with any audience.
• Techniques to speak with authenticity, clarity, and confidence.
• Strategies for building trust and fostering engagement through storytelling.

Ideal for corporate communicators, PR professionals, marketers, and leaders, this session will empower attendees to connect deeply and communicate more effectively in every facet of their work.  Join me, and let’s harness the power of storytelling to truly connect.

• Craft Compelling Narratives: Create engaging, audience-centered stories using a proven storytelling framework to captivate listeners and inspire action.
• Speak with Authenticity and Confidence: Gain techniques to deliver their stories with clarity, confidence, and authenticity, building trust and connection with their audience.
• Foster Deeper Connections Through Communication: Leverage storytelling as a tool to connect with diverse audiences, enhance collaboration, and drive meaningful engagement in professional settings.

When change fails, it’s often not the change itself but the lack of a thoughtful communication strategy. In this session, we’ll explore the real risks of neglecting comms in times of change and the critical role internal communicators play in making transformation stick. You’ll learn the key components of an effective strategy – clear reasons, emotional investment, and a conducive environment – and how to use them to build trust, reduce resistance, and move people forward.

Key takeaways:

• Understand the consequences of change without a comms strategy, and how to avoid them.
•  Learn the three pillars of effective change comms: clarity, emotion, and environment.
• Discover how internal comms can lead the way in building resilient, change-ready cultures

This is a Solution Provider Session brought to you by Appspace. 

Fuel up for the rest of the day with lunch provided by IABC.

When your people are caring for others, internal communication can’t be an afterthought — it must be a lifeline. At Kitsap Mental Health Services, delivering community care begins with making sure every staff member feels informed, connected, and valued.

In this session, hear how Kitsap transformed internal communication to better serve frontline healthcare professionals and administrative teams alike. Learn how a unified intranet helped streamline critical updates, support mental health initiatives, and build a stronger culture across roles and locations.

Register here.

In today’s globally connected world, strategic communications professionals need to know not only what is happening in their company but the competitor landscape, supply chain, their customers and communities.  They also need to be able to read wider geo-political and economic winds. Following the news is not enough.  That’s why horizon scanning—the art and science of identifying future trends and challenges has become a critical skill for strategic communicators. It provides the insights needed to stay ahead by understanding the impact of emerging technology, and cultural trends that impact an organisation’s messaging, branding and stakeholder engagement.     In this interactive session attendees will be taken through a step-by-step framework for horizon scanning illustrated by examples and case studies.  Attendees will discover new techniques to help them know how to connect the dots in a world where the pace of change continues to be marked by rapid shifts in technology, culture and public opinion.  This session is ideal for communication leaders eager to strengthen their role as strategic advisors. They’ll gain actionable tools to shape resilient, future-ready communication strategies that truly connect with tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities.

• Define horizon scanning and describe how it helps strategic communicators add value to their organization.
• Apply a structured framework for conducting horizon scanning within their organization, focusing on trend identification and interpretation.
• Demonstrate techniques to turn emerging trends into actionable insights that can inform proactive communication strategies and messaging.

In today’s interconnected world, the role of communicators in driving social change has never been more vital. Join us for an impactful panel with three leading Indigenous communicators, each bringing unique perspectives and lived experiences in Indigenous-led communications.   What better way to welcome communicators to Vancouver than to learn about how Indigenous communicators in Canada are bringing Indigenous ways of knowing and being into their work?   This session will delve into the nuances of building authentic connections and understanding within communities, showcasing strategies that resonate with diverse audiences and advance social impact. Attendees will gain insights from real-life examples of Indigenous-led communication initiatives that inspire, motivate and create connection. The panel will also explore best practices, highlighting tools and techniques Indigenous leaders use to amplify voices, create meaningful understanding, and build lasting relationships through impactful projects.  Designed for communicators who are passionate about social change, this session offers strategies and opportunities for peer learning and interactive dialogue for participants to walk away with practical tools to implement immediately.   Whether you’re working in community outreach, corporate social responsibility, or advocacy, this session will provide you with insight into Indigneous-led communication strategies that connect, inspire, and truly create meaningful change.

• Describe three Indigenous-led communication strategies that effectively engage communities and advance social change.
• Identify and implement at least two tools or techniques to build authentic connections and inclusivity within diverse audiences.
• Conduct a peer-to-peer discussion to explore actionable ways to apply Indigenous-led best practices in their own communication work.

This engaging and interactive workshop is designed for professionals at all levels seeking to enhance organizational communication through ethical principles. Participants will explore the fundamental values from a global perspective that guide effective communication and discover how to align them with their organization's mission and goals.  Through group discussions, role-playing exercises and case studies, attendees will examine real-world scenarios that illustrate the importance of ethical alignment in communication strategies. They will also engage in reflective activities that encourage them to identify their values and how they can be harmonized with their organization's culture.  By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with practical tools and techniques to foster a more transparent and purpose-driven communication environment. They will learn how to navigate ethical dilemmas and promote a culture of integrity within their teams. This workshop promises to help empower individuals to connect deeply with their colleagues and drive meaningful change within their organizations.

• Foster a transparent and purpose-driven communication environment with practical tools and techniques.
• Navigate ethical dilemmas and promote a culture of integrity within teams.
• Connect deeply with colleagues and drive meaningful change within organizations.

Join this session to hear three 10-minute TED-Style talks that dive into the challenges we face on the path to self-improvement and offer actionable strategies for navigating them. Connect with your purpose in your career, build confidence in professional networking, and balance it all while maintaining your energy. Leave inspired, empowered, and ready to connect more deeply—with yourself and others. After the talks, join our speakers for an engaging Q&A. This is your chance to ask questions, share insights, and walk away with practical tools to elevate your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself.

Find Your Purpose: Turn down the fear. Turn up the G.R.I.T.T. – Megan Billnoske
When life or career challenges bring us to our knees, purpose becomes the quiet voice reminding us to keep going. The payoff? – career advancement, unlimited opportunities, energy to supersede anything, and attracting exactly what you want in life. So, how exactly do you find your purpose? Through personal stories and the G.R.I.T.T. framework, this session offers a path to do just that. Learn how to navigate tough moments, appreciate your journey, rebuild inner strength, and unleash your power by being authentically you. Leave with a free Everything DiSC® assessment and worksheets to boldly go G.R.I.T.T. it.

Connect with Confidence: Networking Made Natural – Emily Primeaux
Have you ever been caught at a professional event when the networking cocktail hour strikes? Do you ever look aghast at the room, full of people you don’t know, and wonder how to even begin mingling?  Professional networking is key to building influence across your organization and beyond, expanding your connections, and advancing your communications career. Join this session to discover tools for building meaningful connections, explore strategies to make socializing with strangers feel less daunting, and brainstorm conversation starters. 

Find your Balance: How to EngageFfully Without Burning Out – Kelsey Buckholtz
In today's high-pressure workplace, burnout is a growing challenge for internal communicators and professionals alike. As a result, “balance” can feel like an impossible goal. In this session, learn the hidden causes of burnout and how to prevent it by establishing boundaries to protect your values. Through real-life examples and Kelsey’s personal journey, attendees will uncover effective strategies to enhance well-being, reclaim their time and energy, and foster resilience.  

• Develop strategies to navigate challenges with resilience, build authentic purpose-driven connections, and create a supportive professional network that fosters growth and empowerment.
• Apply actionable techniques to overcome networking discomfort, confidently initiate meaningful conversations at events, and strengthen influence across professional communities.
• Implement boundaries and practices that reduce burnout, prioritize well-being, and enable purposeful engagement in high-pressure environments.

Before launching a new internal platform, BCI did something simple - but powerful: they listened. The organization had grown both in size and complexity and they were looking to provide the tools and technology required for its people to be successful in a highly competitive global market. Through workshops, surveys, and ongoing dialogue, they reshaped how information is delivered, accessed, and understood across BCI — aligning internal communications with the strategic imperative of empowering employees. In this session, they share what they heard, what they changed, and what they’re still learning — from content clarity and platform integration to culture-building and strategy.

This is a Solution Provider session brought to you by Interact.

Each year, Muck Rack surveys thousands of journalists to better understand how journalists preferred to be pitched in 2025. This presentation will provide actionable insights from our annual report that PR professionals can use to elevate their media relations strategy. We’ll cover:  -Media consumption habits of journalists, including where they turn for news and the social channels they value most -The social media channels that journalists value the most -How journalists prefer to be pitched, right down to the best channels, day and time  You’ll walk away with a better understanding of how journalists work in 2025 and valuable best practices for elevating your media relations strategy.

• Pitch journalists according to their preferences, including top channels, days and times.
• Understand how journalists use social media today.
• Know where and who journalists turn to for sources, news and more.

In times of crisis, connection becomes the most critical component of an effective communication strategy. This workshop will help participants navigate the range of crisis response strategies, from defensive approaches to accommodative actions, focusing on how each tactic can either strengthen or hinder connections with stakeholders. Participants will discover how to employ strategies like denial, justification, and ingratiation, as well as when and how to move toward corrective action and full apology—tools that, when used effectively, can bridge the gap between organizations and the audiences they serve.  Key Takeaways - Building Trust Through Strategy: Learn when and how to apply defensive strategies (attack the accuser, denial, excuse, and justification) without breaking vital stakeholder connections. - From Defense to Connection: Explore the power of accommodative strategies, such as ingratiation, corrective action, and a full apology, to restore and deepen trust. - Real-Life Case Studies: Analyze case studies that showcase both successful and unsuccessful use of these strategies, illustrating how each approach impacts organizational connection and reputation. - Crisis Response Toolkit: Gain a practical toolkit for assessing crisis situations and choosing the most effective response to maintain and rebuild crucial connections. Learning Outcomes

• Understand Crisis Connection Points: Recognize the full spectrum of crisis response strategies and how each can either support or undermine connection with stakeholders.
• Assess Strategy Impact on Trust: Learn to assess when a defensive strategy can defuse tension or when an accommodative approach can more effectively rebuild bridges.
• Craft Resonant Messaging: Develop skills to craft clear, empathetic, and impactful messages for each response type, from denial to full apology, ensuring that communication efforts foster meaningful connection even in challenging moments.

In today’s fast-paced, information-saturated workplaces, internal communicators are challenged to cut through the noise and bring clarity to complexity. Messages are fragmented. Employees are overwhelmed. And too often, the story gets lost. In this session, I’ll share actionable strategies to reduce communication overload and build a unified narrative that connects people programs to real business priorities. I’ll walk through how we’ve shifted from reactive messaging to strategic storytelling – by aligning with stakeholders early, engaging managers as trusted messengers, and using real-time employee insights to shape messages that land.

I’ll share real-world examples, practical tools and use cases that help internal communicators bring consistency, meaning, and trust back into the employee experience at scale.
This session is designed for communication professionals in large, multi-regional organizations where clarity, connection, and engagement are essential.

• Build a clear, compelling story that connects the dots across business priorities and internal initiatives – so leaders can get on board and employees can get behind it.
• Engage and equip managers to confidently communicate with their teams – amplifying key messages and making sense of change.
• Use real-time employee insights to shape communications that feel relevant, grounded, and backed by evidence.

In an increasingly polarized and disconnected world, effective leadership hinges on authentic connection. This dynamic session weaves together two TED-style talks exploring the intersecting themes of curiosity and appreciation as drivers of trust, influence, and belonging. Through engaging storytelling and actionable insights, our speakers will highlight how these complementary approaches can transform relationships and amplify your leadership impact. Following the talks, join both speakers for a thought-provoking Q&A designed to deepen your understanding and help you apply these concepts to your own leadership journey.

Connections Powered by Curiosity - Sarah Manley Robertson, SCMP®
Curiosity is one of the most powerful tools for fostering connection, understanding, and influence. By developing greater self-awareness and curiosity about others—including your clients, executives, and stakeholders—you can unlock deeper rapport and build stronger relationships. This talk will explore how embracing curiosity allows you to manage reactions, tailor communication, and create meaningful connections that build trust, influence, and effectiveness. Discover how curiosity fuels authentic leadership and communication success.

Appreciation: The Key to Authentic Connection - Catherine Ducharme, PCC, CLC
Appreciation is the cornerstone of creating inclusive, connected, and thriving workplaces. Recognizing and valuing others for who they are, rather than just what they do, fosters trust and belonging while enhancing team dynamics. Drawing on compelling research and real-world examples, this talk reveals how appreciation serves as a practical leadership strategy to strengthen relationships and build high-performing teams. Walk away with actionable ways to integrate appreciation into your leadership approach, creating environments where people feel seen, heard, and empowered.

• Explore how curiosity and appreciation together form the foundation of authentic connections and influence.
• Identify practical strategies for fostering trust, enhancing communication, and creating inclusive environments where team members feel valued.
• Discover how to apply appreciation and curiosity to reduce friction, build rapport, and inspire purpose-driven, high-performing teams.

Join Deane Barker, Director of Strategic Engagement at Staffbase, for a thought-provoking session on the deeper purpose of internal communications. Explore the powerful impact of connection versus isolation in the workplace and how fostering meaningful connection is not just a strategy, but a responsibility. This session will unpack the vital role internal communicators play in shaping culture, creating belonging, and helping people feel seen, heard, and truly part of something bigger.

Video provides a unique storytelling opportunity to connect authentically with your audience. But to find the story that will resonate, you need to meaningfully connect with the people at the heart of your project. By taking a care-centred approach to developing campaigns, you can create the connections that lead to impactful storytelling.   When developing a care-centric approach, being true to your brand is integral to connecting with diverse audiences and sharing information about challenging subjects. It means building strong, good-faith relationships with everyone involved and considering their feelings and interests in tandem with your goals, tactics and key messaging. This is especially important for those whose goals are more qualitative than quantitative, such as raising awareness or changing behaviours.   In this presentation we will look at the power of first-person storytelling and the necessity of approaching it with care and respect. Using video examples developed by Spruce Creative, we’ll discuss the process and impact of a care-centred approach.  You will get an opportunity to reflect on what makes first-person narrative feel authentic and how to help your clients meaningfully connect with their audience. After this presentation you will have an outline for crafting your own care-focused communications, for any medium.

• Understand of the meaning and value of care-centered communications, especially in the non-profit sector.
• Implement a care-centered approach that fosters meaningful connections when developing campaigns for awareness and behavioral change campaigns.
• Develope and refine a care-centered approach, particularly for video storytelling.

Great communications start with great insights grounded in data. At William Osler Health System (Osler)—one of the largest community hospitals serving one of Ontario’s fastest-growing and most diverse regions—connecting with the community is paramount. Through regular community studies, Osler captures essential perceptions and attitudes, enabling them to craft communications strategies that resonate and foster meaningful PR campaigns. This strategic approach to reputation-building strengthens connections and shifts narratives in ways that matter.  Key Session Takeaways Include:  - How Osler benchmarked its approach to connect insights with PR strategy - Where Osler’s PR team focused efforts to connect with audiences and change the narrative through impactful campaigns - The importance of storytelling to build authentic connections, and what an effective campaign looks like.

• Understand the role of data in connecting with an audience and how to leverage community study insights and data to inform PR strategies.
• Develop targeted PR campaigns to shape stories.
• Refine storytelling techniques for authentic engagement with diverse audiences to create lasting connections.

When Quebec’s Bill 96 mandated French as the primary language for businesses and government services, international and anglophone employees at Ubisoft Montréal—one of the world’s largest independent video game studios—faced uncertainty about their ability to work and access essential services. Even today, the full implications of these requirements remain unclear. In the wake of the announcement, Ubisoft Montréal partnered with boutique communications agency Bien dit to go beyond managing employees’ (legitimate) concerns and discover an opportunity to strengthen community.  The “_Tire-toi une bûche_” campaign took a stealthy approach to internal communications, putting authenticity ahead of polish and employee stories at the forefront. The results surprised everyone—including Quebec’s language authority, who lauded it as a model initiative. This case study reveals practical insights for communications professionals facing sensitive organizational challenges, demonstrating how strategic creativity and genuine employee voices can transform uncertainty into connection.

• Apply a five-point framework to systematically identify opportunities and develop strategic communication responses during organizational challenges.
• Leverage existing tools and authentic employee voices to create engaging content that builds trust during uncertain times.
• Describe specific techniques for injecting warmth and authenticity into potentially contentious organizational communications by focusing on individual stories and relationships.

Spare time doesn’t exist – so how about we shrink the time you spend creating communications, so you can get back to doing other things? Oh, by the way, you can make it so impressive that your key stakeholders will have no choice but to read what you’ve sent. The sooner you can communicate effectively about organizational changes, upcoming leadership training programs or the new performance review schedule, the sooner leaders will read and rally behind what you’re sharing.   In this demonstration, enjoy a real-world business scenario where the audience and speaker work together to create three impactful and eye-catching communications that speak to anyone. We'll build them live in under 1 hour. Not to worry - we’ll apply Canva, AI, Everything DiSC® and a library of templates to do just that. Leave this session relieved that your workload is about to get smaller and your impact and connection is about to get bigger.  BONUS! Leave this session with a free Everything DiSC® assessment to take and learn more about your own style and how to connect with others. Everything DiSC® is a registered trademark of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. or its affiliated companies.

• Explore how to save your time, communicate effectively and provide excellent communications to your organization in fun and creative ways.
• Expand your professional skillset by growing an understanding of how instructional design and Everything DiSC® style plays a critical role in effective communications.
• Explore how to flex in seconds and provide different types of documents to your leaders and individual contributors, fitting any need in seconds.

Join IABC for this structured, fast-paced session where participants engage in a series of short, focused conversations with multiple mentors.

Mentees will receive exposure to a variety of experiences and viewpoints as well as the opportunity to build a professional network. Mentors receive the opportunity to give back, share their experience, and learn from fresh perspectives.

Sign up here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XLNZM85

Join us on 10 June 2025 to celebrate your achievements!

We are thrilled to invite you to the celebration of the 2025 Gold Quill winners at The Roof of the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Come enjoy an evening filled with entertainment, delicious food stations, and refreshing drinks.

The event will be a chance to celebrate your incredible accomplishments in style. Winners can also pick up their awards at the reception.

Attire: Optional cocktail or semi-formal attire.

We look forward to celebrating with you!

Explore Vancouver’s diverse culinary scene with our Dine Around program — exclusive group dinners at top local restaurants just for the 2025 IABC World Conference attendees.

Dine Arounds are a long-standing IABC tradition where you can make new connections in small groups at local restaurants. Reserve a limited spot at one of these sought-after restaurants today:

• Elisa Steakhouse
• Sandbar Seafood
• Dahlia
• Maxine's Cade & Bar
• and more!

2025 IABC World Conference - Dine Around | Eventbrite

Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast and great conversations with fellow attendees.

We’re at the start of a revolution for the business communicator. The swift change in how we work and the demands of employees from their employers to create a healthy Culture of Well-being has put our skills at the front and center. Building and executing a strategy of connecting with our employees can make or break businesses. It’s that work that can improve employee retention, sentiment, advocacy, and, ultimately, your company’s bottom line. But this smart and hard work takes a considerable amount of energy. How do we build up our well-being to show up for ourselves, our teams, and our employees? Join us for an inspirational and joyful kickoff to equip communication leaders with balance, purpose, and intention by putting themselves first! The life of a communication professional is a mixture of emotions: from exhilarating to frightening, empowering to worrying, purposeful to lonely. The key to living with these emotions is designing a path toward buoyancy. This data-driven case-study rich and fully interactive conversation will deliver on how to be a healthy and confident leader so you will be a trusted advisor to CONNECT with colleagues and clients and, most importantly, live healthy lives with loved ones.

• Understand how strategic communicators can prioritize their well-being.
• Demonstrate leadership in designing a strategic communication approach to employee culture and well-being.
• Secure buy-in from Chief Human Resource Officers and other executives on the business impact of a strategic employee culture and well-being initiative.

We know the familiar “hey guyssss” from social influencers. Their videos dominate our feeds, their viewership and follower count are sky high. At times, they feel like friends. YouTubers, Instagrammers and TikTokers are making money from links, promo codes, and incentive programs. And BC Securities Commission (BCSC) research shows people are LISTENING to social media advice when it comes to important life decision making. The problem? A lot of friendly influencers are factually false – yes, there’s space for another F word here.

Accurate information is critical, and it’s up to communicators to get their message across. So how do we bypass the flashy-but-fake noise, convince the masses to stop listening to fake friends online and start listening to...a government regulator?

The BCSC communications team took a bold stance against misinformation and internet foes by dropping the buttoned-up regulatory look and being brave…even a bit risky… with their communications. Going where no regulator dared go before, the BCSC went towards the truth - all in the name of protecting the general public.

• Spot holes in a social media communications strategy.
• Identify and find research to back up business plans.
• Build a plan to use social media to their advantage.

Too often communication and engagement is thought about in terms of messages and channels. It’s actually about understanding and relating to people – be they leaders, customers, stakeholders or clients.  If you want to supercharge your impact and influence this hands-on workshop is made for you. Through a mix of content, team exercises and personal worksheets, we'll help you think about: * the impact and influence you want to have and what might be holding you back * the role of values, motivations and beliefs that shape how our leaders and audiences see the world - and how to use that to our advantage * the real issues and challenges that your communication and expertise needs to help solve * how to frame communication and choose language that resonates best with your business, leaders or clients * how being curious and asking different questions can deliver the change-up you need. We'll highlight challenges and themes and introduce techniques grounded in behavioural economics while also providing  examples about how things play out in action, including how leaders and citizens typically respond and react to common communication approaches. The power to increase our impact and influence is in our own hands, but we must work smarter, not harder.

• Discover approaches to increase influence when engaging with leaders and clients.
• Frame communication and choose language that resonates best with business, leaders, or clients.
• Develop a personalized action plan to enhance influence, secure a seat at the table, and drive meaningful connections.

In a world where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly, its role in our lives has sparked debate: is AI a friend, a foe, or a sidekick? This interactive presentation delves into these perspectives, examining AI as a supportive ally, a disruptive adversary, or a complementary tool to human abilities.  As a friend, AI can enhance our lives by boosting productivity, streamlining tasks, and connecting us in new ways—bridging gaps across teams, industries, and cultures for more efficient collaboration. Yet, there’s a darker side: the foe. AI brings ethical and privacy concerns, sparking fears around job displacement, data misuse, bias and loss of control. Between these lies AI as a sidekick—an adaptable tool that assists rather than replaces, working alongside us to solve complex problems while leaving critical decisions in human hands.    Attendees will engage in a collective sense-making activity that leverages Generative AI to tap into shared wisdom, lived experience and practical solutions on this topic. Participants will leave with an understanding of AI’s potential, how to mitigate its risks, and connect with AI as a sidekick.

• Examine AI’s potential as both a supportive ally that enhances productivity and collaboration, and a disruptive force raising ethical and privacy concerns.
• Develop strategies for responsible AI sse while mitigating ethical, privacy, and security risks.
• Explore actionable insights on how to integrate AI as a supportive tool.

In today’s workplace, it’s not uncommon to find all five generations working side by side — traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials and the emerging Gen Z. Each group brings its own quirks, values and work styles, creating both surprising opportunities and unexpected challenges. Without strategies to bridge these generational differences, organizations risk conflict, inefficiency and even the loss of future talent. In this dynamic presentation, you’ll discover what truly drives each generation, explore eye-opening strategies to bridge the gaps and learn how to turn generational diversity into your workplace superpower. Whether you’re motivating a 20-something new hire or collaborating with a seasoned pro, this session will equip you with the tools to connect, communicate and lead with confidence. Get ready to see your workplace — and your colleagues — in a whole new light!