IAP2 Canada’s Post

My cup was filled last week as I attended the IAP2 Canada hosted North American Conference in Ottawa! Highlights included: - Co-sponsoring "The Gathering Grounds" and a leading a conference session with my good buddy and colleague Kim Hyshka, and following up by making over 70 connections between public engagement practitioners with shared interests who may not have otherwise had the chance to meet 🤝 - Hosting my dear friend, Cree/Métis artist and youth entrepreneur Darren Rea to create live digital art over the two days, culminating in the one-of-a-kind image you see below, AND to lead a session that invited participants into circle, reflect on gratitude and meditate on the power of love as self-care in the work we do 🧡 - Receiving a Core Values Award Honourable Mention for the work that Forum Community Relations has done with EPCOR to meaningfully engage Indigenous Nations and communities in its Flood Mitigation Project. Gratitude to EPCOR colleagues Candace MacLachlan, Morgan Bamford, Yolanda Casciaro, and (formerly) Jed Johns for your collaboration and genuine partnership 🎉 🏆 - Visiting Parliament Grounds with Darren and my lovely colleague Michelle Deacon and happening upon Question Period, which was an enlightening experience about the state of our democracy, to say the least 😬 - And reconnecting with my professional community from across North America, reminding me of the energy and knowledge I gain from being part of this special community of engagement professionals, as well as the laughs, hugs, and support 🤗 🙌 Thanks IAP2, for putting on such a great event! Can't wait for the next one in San Antonio ☀