Sebastien Centner kicks off CSE 2024, reflecting on the path that brought him to this point in his career, the challenges faced, mistakes made, and successes celebrated. Most importantly, he shares how he feels these experiences can help us all navigate the future in this industry as we see unprecedented change on the horizon. 

In the fast-paced world of event planning, being prepared for on-site challenges is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity. “The Strategic Planner: Snap Solutions for Event Challenges” is a meticulously designed session that arms you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the most common yet unforeseen event dilemmas. Led by award-winning international event planners Trish Knox and Claire Duncan of TK Events,  this 30-minute powerhouse session delves into the top ten strategic snap solutions that every event professional should have in their arsenal.

From client demands that come out of left field to last-minute logistical nightmares, our experts will guide you through real-world scenarios, offering actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately for successful outcomes. This session is not just about problem-solving; it’s about transforming challenges into opportunities for innovation and client satisfaction.

Attendees will also have the unique opportunity to engage directly with our speakers during a Q&A segment, allowing for personalized advice and insights on specific issues or topics of interest. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, “The Strategic Planner” session promises to enhance your skill set, boost your confidence in crisis management, and elevate your event planning game to new heights.

Experiential Pioneer, Isaac Rayment of Awe-Nest discusses past, present and future trends in technology and how it is innovating the modern event experience.

Topics will include AI, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Projection Mapping, Holographics,  and Immersive Projection Experiences. He will explore current capabilities and practical use cases of how to incorporate them into your events. Don’t miss this lively presentation that will be full of definitions, demonstrations and real-world samples.

In this dynamic and inspiring session, Emily Lyons, an event and entertainment industry trailblazer, unravels the transformative power of personal branding and shares indispensable insights on how mastering the concept can help you stand out in your organization or elevate your business in the competitive event landscape. Drawing from her ascent, Emily’s journey offers valuable lessons for all, showcasing the significant impact of a well-crafted personal brand in achieving professional growth and recognition.

Canadian Idol alum Jenn Beaupre is an international singer/songwriter and performer who has been sharing her big, powerful and technically masterful voice across North America for decades. She *edutains* her 1,000,000+ fans and followers across social media platforms with her quick and uplifting vocal tips as well as her high-energy vocal performances. Jenn is an intuitive vocal coach and speaker who la la loves helping people make noise that feels good and sounds great- real, raw, and authentic.

In this workshop, Jenn will empower you to use your voice and ears with purpose and power. We talk and listen all day, but how often do we consider the nuance involved? When we unleash the full, colourful capability of our instrument and our ear is tuned-in and turned up to 10, the voice is unbelievably capable. Bring your most audacious self to this session. 😉 Cheers to bold, confident and connected interactions!

Join us for “The Hunt,” where award-winning event professional Hailey Dawood, A.K.A. Chief Huntress of The Idea Hunter, unveils an array of inspiring ideas for the corporate event industry. Delve into entertainment, food, tech, décor, and more, all meticulously curated to elevate your events to new heights. Discover the latest ideas and ignite your creativity alongside industry peers. Don’t miss out—join us for The Hunt!

Join Page and Jian Magen, the dynamic duo behind some of Toronto’s most epic events, as they chart ‘The Journey’ of their careers. From their humble beginnings to the heights of success they enjoy today, they share invaluable strategies forged through the good, the bad, and the downright challenging. This session isn’t just a trove of wisdom for creating opportunities and crafting powerful experiences; it’s an odyssey filled with inspiration, entertainment, and the charismatic magnetism that only the Magens bring. Engage with their story, and walk away with practical insights to fuel your own path to success in the event industry.

In a world increasingly tethered to digital interactions, the value of in-person events cannot be overstated. As we delve into the realm of social health, it becomes evident that these gatherings are not just moments of casual interaction but vital contributors to the overall well-being of Canadians. Social health represents a groundbreaking shift in our understanding, emphasizing the profound impact of human connection on mental and physical wellness.

Embark on a transformative journey with Pete Bombaci, the visionary founder and CEO of Canada’s Human Connection Movement and The GenWell Project. Together, we will unravel the profound impact of meaningful conversations, shared interests, and the pivotal role of social health in combating social isolation, disconnection, and loneliness. It’s time to recognize human connection as the secret weapon we didn’t realize we had.

Pete will be joined by Allison Freeman to conclude this inspiring keynote, shedding light on why Chairman Mills has pledged support for GenWell, Canada’s Human Connection Movement, and how each of us can contribute to fostering a more connected Canada.