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Dear Tourism Community,
With December quickly approaching, we are just weeks away from the 2024 Tourism Congress, and I want to personally encourage you in this special "Congress" edition of TIAC Talk to join us by securing your spot today. This annual event is more than just a conference; it’s the premier gathering for leaders and professionals across Canada’s tourism sector, designed to inspire, equip, and connect us as we look to the future.
This year’s Congress, taking place December 3-5 at the Sheraton Wall Centre in Vancouver, B.C., promises an impressive lineup of sessions, workshops, and networking events, crafted to tackle the most pressing issues and uncover exciting opportunities in Canadian tourism. Whether you’re looking to deepen your knowledge, build strategic connections, or simply recharge your vision, the Tourism Congress has something invaluable for you.
I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the judges of this year's Canadian Tourism Awards for your time, energy, and expertise in evaluating this year’s nominations. With over 170 submissions, it was indeed a big year, and we know the task of reviewing so many inspiring entries was no small feat.
Your dedication to recognizing excellence in our industry is greatly appreciated. The time and thought you put into this process help us celebrate the remarkable achievements within Canadian tourism and inspire ongoing innovation across the country.
Thank you once again for your essential contribution to this year’s awards. We couldn’t do it without you!
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Date: December 3–5, 2024
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel, Vancouver, B.C.
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Join us in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity.
This year's theme, “Canada: Powered by Tourism,” emphasizes tourism’s vital role in shaping Canada’s economic, cultural, and societal landscape.
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Introduction to Export READIness
brought to you by TIAC
Pavilion Ballroom A
9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Are you interested in extending your market reach beyond traditional clients to gain access to new and larger international tourism markets? This workshop will introduce you to the numerous benefits of working with Travel Trade. You will also learn how your business or region can access key international markets. While this is an intro session, once businesses achieve the Export READI designation, they will have the opportunity to be included on TIAC's national Tourism registry. The READI Stamp program, administered by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), signifies a commitment to excellence within the tourism sector.
Facilitator: Anne-Marie Forcier, Tourism Industry Association of Canada
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Advancing Sustainability in Tourism: An Experiential Workshop for Leaders and Managers
brought to you by GreenStep
Pavilion Ballroom C
9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Discover an experiential, hands-on workshop designed for tourism leaders, business owners, and managers seeking to advance sustainability in their operations. Led by GreenStep Solutions, this 3-hour session introduces participants to essential concepts and benefits of integrating a sustainability strategy into their business. Key definitions and terminology, related to sustainable and regenerative tourism, will be shared as well as a proven framework to help guide you towards the implementation of a plan for continuous improvement.
Through interactive discussions and real-life examples, attendees will explore how to apply the globally recognized GreenStep Sustainable Tourism criteria. They will conduct a baseline assessment of their current practices, identifying key areas for enhancement. The workshop encourages peer-to-peer learning while fostering collaboration on actionable strategies and solutions.
While completing an online sustainability assessment beforehand is recommended, it's not mandatory. This tool equips participants with valuable insights to refine their sustainability plans during the workshop. By the end, participants will leave with a clear understanding of sustainable tourism principles and a practical roadmap to implement effective sustainability initiatives.
Facilitators: Angela Nagy, CEO and Shaylyn Robertson, Senior Sustainability Specialist, Greenstep
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Delicious Storytelling 101
brought to you by the Culinary Tourism Alliance
Pavilion Ballroom D
9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Join Gabrielle Mueller, Marketing Manager at the Culinary Tourism Alliance, for a 3-hour workshop on the art of delicious food storytelling. In the first part of this hands-on session, you'll discover who the food tourist is, what they crave, and how to captivate their attention. Learn valuable tips and tricks to immediately enhance your food storytelling across social media, menus, and websites.
Next, put your newfound knowledge to work by creating a written piece about your business during the workshop. Benefit from real-time feedback from the CTA team and fellow participants. This inclusive workshop is designed to be a safe space for everyone to flex their creative muscles and produce truly irresistible content. Join us to transform your food storytelling into a feast for the senses!
Facilitator: Gabrielle Mueller, Marketing Manager, Culinary Tourism Alliance
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Flourishing in Tourism: Building Your Capacity to Flourish in the Future
brought to you by Flourishing in Tourism, A TIAC/Bannikin Collaboration
Junior Ballroom C
9 a.m.–12 p.m.
What does a flourishing future look like for your organization? What could the Canadian tourism sector look like if we all focused on flourishing? Join Trevor Jonas Benson and Camilo Montoya-Guevara of Bannikin in exploring your inspiring vision and what you can do now to improve your chances of flourishing in the future. In this workshop, you will learn about a more efficient, effective, and integrated strategic planning process that takes seriously both desirable and probable futures. You will get hands-on experience with the Flourishing Business Canvas, gaining business model design and storytelling capacity as part of the process. Most important, you will take away valuable insight into the contexts and perspectives that you need to consider, and the questions you need to answer, in order to take full account of your organization and ensure that it is fit for the 21st century.
Facilitators: Trevor Jonas Benson, Managing Partner and Camilo Montoya-Guevara, Partner, Bannikin
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Managing Environmental & Social Impacts with Visitor Use Management Framework
brought to you by Trans Canada Trail
Pavilion Ballroom B
9 a.m.–12 p.m.
The Visitor Use Management Framework (VUMF) is an adaptable process for managing visitor use across public lands, protected areas and outdoor recreation destinations – this session will focus on recreational trails.
This workshop concentrates on understanding the impacts of trail visitors on various values (e.g., environmental, community) and on the strategies to actively anticipate, prevent, mitigate and manage potential impacts to help ensure that trails and trail destinations provide a positive experience for both visitors and residents, and that they are sustainable.
Facilitator: Trisha Kaplan, Director, Trail Inclusion Initiatives and Justin Truelove, Visitor Experience Coordinator, Trans Canada Trail
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Canada's National Forum on Disaster Readiness and Response
Pavilion CD
1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
This forum focuses on three areas of disaster: global warming, pandemics, and natural disasters. Candace Campo from Talaysay Tours will speak on the impact of global warming on Canadian tourism, and the challenges that many First Nations communities face as a result. TIAC's CEO Beth Potter will then speak on COVID-19. She will share best practices and how TIAC is prepared for any future global health disasters. To end the session, Beth will be joined by Amy Thacker from Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Wendy Magnes from the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, and Anita Ballantyne-Berthier from Destination Canada. Together they will share their experiences managing major disasters and the solutions they implemented. Don't miss this incredible session that will prepare you and your business should disaster strike your region.
Moderator: Amy Butcher
Panelists: Beth Potter, President & CEO, TIAC; Anita Ballantyne-Berthier, Senior Director, Corporate Communications and Outreach, Destination Canada; Wendy Magnes, Director, Economics and Corporate Initiatives, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture & Sport, Amy Thacker, CEO Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association; Candace Campo, Co-Owner/Operator, Talaysay Tours
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Wednesday, December 4, 2024 | |
Networking Breakfast, Goodkey Delegate Lounge & Marketplace
brought to you by Goodkey
8 a.m.–9 a.m.
Start your day with a nourishing breakfast, reconnect with familiar faces, build new connections, and engage with our exhibitors.
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Welcome Remarks and Indigenous Welcome
Speakers:
Beth Potter, President and CEO, TIAC; Nina Kressler, Chair TIAC Board of Directors and President & CEO; Royce Chwin, President and CEO, Destination Vancouver
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Embracing the Journey: The Power of Canada's Tourism Industry with Jon Montgomery
brought to you by Encore
Pavilion CD
9:30 a.m.–10:15 a.m.
Join Jon Montgomery, Gold Medal Olympian and Host of The Amazing Race Canada, as he takes us on an inspiring journey through Canada's vibrant tourism industry. In this captivating session, Jon will share his unique perspective on exploring and appreciating the value and gifts of Canada’s tourism landscape. Hear firsthand about the incredible destinations he has visited, the diverse people and cultures he has encountered, and the unforgettable experiences that have fueled his pride in being Canadian. Jon will also reflect on his pride in representing Canada on the world stage during the 2010 Winter Olympics, and how that experience has deepened his appreciation for Canada's tourism treasures. From coast to coast, Jon's adventures reveal the heart and soul of Canada’s tourism ecosystem, highlighting the extraordinary beauty and hospitality that make Canada a world-class travel destination. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by Jon’s stories and insights, celebrating the essence of what makes Canada truly special.
Speaker: Jon Montgomery
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State of the Industry: Leadership Report & Innovation Forum
Pavilion CD
10:15 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Kick off this dynamic session with an inspiring look back at the past year, highlighting the major milestones and key developments that have shaped Canadian tourism. TIAC’s President & CEO, Beth Potter, will then deliver an in-depth leadership report, exploring the challenges, successes, and opportunities that lie ahead. Following the report, engage in an interactive Innovation Sprint and Feedback Forum, where participants can collaborate, share insights, and contribute to future strategies for strengthening the tourism sector.
Speaker: Beth Potter, President & CEO, TIAC
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Goodkey Delegate Lounge and Marketplace
brought to you by Goodkey
11:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Enjoy a nutritious snack, mingle with old friends, make new connections, and meet our exhibitors. It's the perfect setting to foster relationships and explore the latest in tourism offerings.
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Air Canada Future Leaders Luncheon: Shaping Tomorrow’s Tourism: Empowering Future Leaders
brought to you by Air Canada
12 p.m.–1:15 p.m.
Join us at the Air Canada Future Leaders Luncheon, an inspiring event dedicated to the next generation of tourism professionals featuring a compelling presentation on building a successful career in the tourism industry. Additionally, we will celebrate the achievements of this year's Air Canada Future Tourism Leaders Contest winners: Gabrielle Heschuk, Ramachandran Gomathi, Harshveer Dhaliwal, and Tiffany Sanford.
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From Caution to Confidence: How to Stop Worrying and Learn to Love AI
Pavilion Ballroom D
1:15 p.m.–2 p.m.
In the realm of cultural tourism, AI integration offers exciting opportunities and unique challenges for museums and cultural sites. Join interactive designer Corey King as he delves into the development of Artefacta, an innovative AI-curation platform that is revolutionizing the industry. This session will illuminate how AI can dramatically enhance visitor engagement and offer tailored experiences across diverse institutions. Learn best practices for maintaining authenticity and accessibility, strategies to overcome resistance to new technologies, and explore future trends that AI brings to the tourism landscape. Don't miss this chance to discover how AI is transforming the cultural tourism experience and shaping the future of the industry.
Speaker: Corey King, Co-Founder, ZenFri Inc.
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Telling Your Destination's Taste-of-Place Story
brought to you by Visit Mississauga
Pavilion Ballroom C
1:15 p.m.–2 p.m.
Each destination boasts a unique "taste of place" story that sets it apart, offering visitors a memorable culinary journey that reflects its heritage and flavors. From dining in historic kilns to savoring wines that embody the local terroir, each experience is distinctive and rich with cultural significance. Join Gabrielle Mueller, Marketing Manager for the Culinary Tourism Alliance, as she leads a compelling panel featuring industry leaders from Discover Halifax, Tourism Thunder Bay, and Tourism Medicine Hat. This session will delve into the art of effectively sharing these culinary stories with targeted audiences, highlighting the profound economic impact of culinary tourism. Learn how to leverage your region’s unique gastronomic experiences to attract visitors, stimulate local economies, and elevate your destination’s profile on the global stage.
Moderator: Gabrielle Mueller, Marketing Manager Culinary Tourism Alliance
Panelists: Paul Pepe, Manager of Tourism, Visit Thunder Bay; Maggie Duffy, Manager of Marketing Content, Discover Halifax; Jace Anderson, Executive Director, Tourism Medicine Hat
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Navigating the Future: Emerging and Key Sectors in Canadian Tourism
brought to you by Destination Markham
Pavilion Ballroom AB
1:15 p.m.–2 p.m.
Join our expert panel as they delve into the dynamic sectors reshaping the Canadian tourism landscape. This session will spotlight emerging trends and innovations that are driving economic impact and diversifying the tourism industry. Explore the rise of RVing and road trips and their growing economic significance. Learn about the transformative effects of wellness tourism, where travellers seek rejuvenation and holistic experiences. Discover the growing impact of sport tourism, which attracts visitors through major sporting events and boosts local economies. Finally, understand the substantial contributions of meetings, conventions, and business events to local economies. Gain valuable insights into how these segments are enhancing the resilience and future of destinations across Canada. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with industry leaders and uncover the potential of these key tourism sectors.
Moderator: Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia
Panelists:
Kathryn Munro, VP Sales & Marketing, CanaDreamMinto Schneider, CDME Chair, Meetings Mean Business Canada; President & CEO Inter Ocean Inc.Lesley Anderson, Training & Development Manager, The Tourism CafeSheena McCrate, CEO, Sport Tourism Canada
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Goodkey Delegate Lounge and Marketplace
brought to you by Goodkey
2 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Enjoy a nutritious snack, mingle with old friends, make new connections, and meet our exhibitors. It's the perfect setting to foster relationships and explore the latest in tourism offerings.
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National Tourism Panel Session: Enhancing Canada's Global Competitiveness Through Transportation
Grand Ballroom
2:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
An insightful panel discussion featuring leading experts from the airline, rail, motorcoach, and water transportation industries.. This dynamic session will delve into how groundbreaking advancements across these transportation modes are propelling Canada’s global competitiveness. Key topics include enhancing accessibility, fostering innovation, improving interconnectivity, streamlining border access, and tackling critical infrastructure challenges. Join us to gain valuable perspectives on how these developments are shaping the future of transportation in Canada and positioning the nation as a leader on the world stage.
Moderator: Jean-François Côté, Owner, Cotico Inc
Panelists: John M Wilson, Chair, Motor Coach Canada and President & C.E.O, Wilson's Group of Companies; Michael Acosta, Chief Commercial Officer, VIA Rail Canada; Elizabeth Brown, President and CEO, Victoria Airport Authority; Benjamin Ryan, Chief Commercial Officer, Air North, Yukon's Airline
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Spend More and Stay Longer: Harnessing the Growing Value of Cultural Tourism
brought to you by Destinations International & the Canadian Destination Leadership Council
3:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Did you know that the global cultural tourism market size was USD 6.08 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 17.81 billion by 2032? Did you know that arts and culture tourists are more likely to spend more and stay longer? Visitor spending associated with live music alone, in 2023, is estimated at $9.9B.
If there was a time for culture and tourism to work more closely together, it is now.
Join this session as we explore how to better leverage Canadian stories, stars, stages, and spectacles through integration, collaboration, and partnerships. Our panel of experts will delve into the rapidly expanding role cultural tourism plays in strengthening Canada's appeal to international and domestic visitors alike.
Together, we’ll discuss how to elevate cultural tourism experiences and support communities in showcasing their stories authentically and impactfully.
Attendees will gain insights into best practices, innovative collaborations, and strategies for integrating cultural elements into the broader tourism ecosystem, ensuring that these vital stories and experiences remain accessible, sustainable, and valued within Canada’s tourism framework.
Moderator: Laura Ballance, Senior Consultant, Laura Ballance Media Group
Speakers: Chris May, General Manager, BC Place; Caroline Phelps, General Manager, Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week
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Welcome Reception - Vancouver Aquarium
in collaboration with the Vancouver Aquarium & Destination Vancouver
Transportation to/from the Host Hotel provided by TRAXX Coachline
845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2
6:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Join us for an unforgettable Welcome Reception at the Vancouver Aquarium on Wednesday, December 4, to conclude the first day of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada's 2024 Tourism Congress. Nestled in Stanley Park, the Aquarium offers a stunning backdrop for networking and celebration. Enjoy exclusive access to aquatic exhibits featuring diverse marine life while savoring gourmet hors d'oeuvres and refreshments. Connect with industry leaders and peers in this unique setting, blending professional engagement with the natural beauty of one of Vancouver's landmarks. Unwind and foster new connections within Canada's vibrant tourism community.
Please note that registration for Congress is required to attend the Welcome Reception. If you're interested in joining us for the evening but can't attend the entire Congress, or if you’d like to bring your entire team to the reception, please visit our website to purchase tickets for the Welcome Reception separately.
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Networking Breakfast, Goodkey Delegate Lounge and Marketplace
brought to you by Goodkey
8 a.m.–9 a.m.
Start your day with a nourishing breakfast, reconnect with familiar faces, build new connections, and engage with our exhibitors.
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Morning Kick-Off Welcome
9 a.m.–9:15 a.m.
Speaker: Beth Potter, President & CEO, TIAC
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Destination Canada Session: How Brand Leadership Will Power Canada’s Tourism Future
brought to you by Destination Canada
Grand Ballroom
9:15 a.m.–10:15 a.m.
With technology evolving rapidly and traveler expectations shifting, staying true to Brand Canada has never been more important—or more challenging. Join Gloria Loree, Senior Vice-President of Marketing Strategy and Chief Marketing Officer at Destination Canada, as she explores the role of brand love and how Canada’s distinctive strengths can be the superpower that keeps our tourism sector resilient, even amidst huge disruption. Following her presentation, Gloria will moderate a panel of brand leaders and experts to discuss how brand leadership can help us navigate the path ahead.
Speakers: Gloria Loree, SVP of Marketing Strategy and Chief Marketing Officer
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Ensuring Tourism Thrives When All Belong: Powering Canadian Tourism Through Inclusive and Accessible Employment
Pavilion Ballroom C
10:15 a.m.–11 a.m.
The Canadian tourism sector is at a crucial juncture where inclusivity and accessibility can drive growth and resilience. The session "Ensuring Tourism Thrives When All Belong" explores how inclusive employment practices can transform the sector. By creating workplaces that support individuals, including those with disabilities, the industry can leverage diverse talents to boost innovation and enhance guest experiences. Delegates will learn from diverse perspectives, including employees with disabilities, small business owners, HR professionals, and accessibility experts. The session will cover best practices, legal and ethical responsibilities, economic benefits, and societal impacts of inclusive tourism. Attendees will gain actionable insights to foster a supportive environment and improve business performance, customer satisfaction, and brand reputation. Join us to explore how embracing inclusivity and accessibility can power the future of Canadian tourism.
Moderator: Jiaxuan (Jasmine) Qi, Director, Workforce Inclusion, Tourism HR Canada
Panelists: Jazz McLarty, Prep Cook for Krackers Katering; Rami Kasem, President at Javaroma Gourmet Coffee & Tea, Yellowknife, NT; Jamie Millar-Dixon, Principal Consultant with MacLeod Silver HR Business Partners
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Navigating Tomorrow: How DMOs Are Addressing the Ongoing Challenges in Our Sector
brought to you by Destination Northern Ontario
Pavilion Ballroom AB
10:15 a.m.–11 a.m.
This session explores critical issues like sustainable tourism, crisis management, and technological advancements – and how DMOs are indispensable to their communities. Hear top DMO CEOs talk about balancing tourism growth with environmental responsibility, adapting to economic shifts, and safeguarding cultural heritage. Discussions will also cover enhancing destination competitiveness and fostering community benefits through destination stewardship. Through a panel discussion and interactive Q&A, attendees will gain actionable strategies to address these challenges, ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of their destinations.
Moderator: Nancy Small, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Richmond
Panelists: Royce Chwin, Destination Vancouver Team Member, President & CEO; Steph Clovechok, Chief Executive Officer, Discover Saskatoon; Barrett Fisher, President & CEO, Tourism Whistler; Martin Lacelle, Directeur général, Tourisme Laurentides
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Sustainable Tourism: Global Trends and Canada's Performance
brought to you by Pursuit
Pavilion Ballroom D
10:15 a.m.–11 a.m.
Explore the evolving landscape of sustainable tourism, focusing on emerging global trends and Canada's pivotal role in this transformation. This session offers a deep dive into compelling case studies and data, shedding light on the real-world implications of the EU Green Claims Directives and GSTC standards. Gain practical guidance on navigating complex regulations, enabling your organization to enhance sustainability efforts, avoid the pitfalls of greenwashing, and implement truly effective practices. Whether you’re an industry leader, policymaker, or sustainability advocate, this session provides the tools and insights necessary to stay ahead in the rapidly changing world of sustainable tourism.
Speaker: Angela Nagy, CEO, Greenstep
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Goodkey Delegate Lounge and Marketplace
brought to you by Goodkey
11 a.m.–11:45 a.m.
Enjoy a nutritious snack, mingle with old friends, make new connections, and meet our exhibitors. It's the perfect setting to foster relationships and explore the latest in tourism offerings.
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WestJet Luncheon
brought to you by WestJet
11:45 a.m.–1 p.m.
Join us for an engaging WestJet Luncheon, where networking meets inspiration. This is your chance to connect with industry colleagues, dive into WestJet’s pivotal role in shaping Canada’s tourism landscape, and enjoy a memorable experience together. Don’t miss this opportunity to share insights, forge new connections, and celebrate our shared commitment to advancing tourism in Canada.
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Building Partnerships and Employment Pipelines with Canadian Educational Programs
Pavilion Ballroom AB
1 p.m.–1:45 p.m.
Join us for an insightful panel discussion that introduces the Canadian Coalition of Tourism Universities, highlighting its vision and mission to strengthen the tourism industry through education. This session will present a comprehensive model for developing a pipeline approach to connect students with the industry through a structured hosting program.
Moderator: Joe Baker, CEO, Joe Baker & Co.
Panelists: Wayne W. Smith, Ph.D., Director - Institute for Hospitality & Tourism Research, Professor - Ted Rogers School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Toronto Metropolitan University; Phil Mondor, President and CEO, Tourism HR Canada; Brian White, Royal Roads University
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Preparing for the Impact of Major Events: Lessons Learned and Future Strategies
brought to you by Marriott International
Pavilion Ballroom C
1 p.m.–1:45 p.m.
This year's eclipse underscored the critical need for careful planning to manage the influx of visitors and ensure a positive experience. With major events like FIFA, the Invictus Games in Whistler & Vancouver 2025, and Taylor Swift concerts on the horizon, are we prepared?
Gain insights from Tourism Kingston, Destination Vancouver, and Tourism Toronto, who will share best practices on preparation, emergency response, and managing the impact on residents during large events. Join us to explore strategies for successfully hosting large-scale events and ensuring community well-being.
Moderator: Victoria Clarke, CEO, Visit Mississauga
Panelists: Rohaan Sethna, Director, Destination Events, Destination Vancouver Team Member; Alison Migneault, Chief Marketing Officer, Tourism Kingston; Andrew Weir, President and CEO, Destination Toronto
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Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities in Canadian Tourism Investment
Pavilion Ballroom D
1 p.m.–1:45 p.m.
Join us for an insightful session that delves into the complexities of investing in the Canadian tourism industry. Our panel of experts will examine significant challenges such as economic fluctuations, regulatory hurdles, and global events. They will also offer strategic solutions for overcoming these obstacles, providing valuable insights to help you navigate and seize opportunities in this dynamic sector. You will also hear about some key types of succession planning that tourism businesses are navigating for future. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from industry leaders and enhance your investment strategies in Canadian tourism.
Moderator: Matthew Jelley, President, Maritime Fun Group
Panelists: Clark Hoskin, Tourism and Destination Development Consultant and Senior Manager, Strategy, Deloitte; Hildegard Snelgrove, CMC, Business Development Consultant, Tourism Hamilton; Steve Sullivan, Director of Hospitality, QC Group of Companies
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Networking Break and Goodkey Delegate Lounge with Exhibits
brought to you by Goodkey
1:45 p.m.–2:15 p.m.
Enjoy a nutritious snack, mingle with old friends, make new connections, and meet our exhibitors. It's the perfect setting to foster relationships and explore the latest in tourism offerings.
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Strengthening Canada's Global Position: A National Panel on Enhancing Competitiveness
Grand Ballroom
2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m.
Join us for a dynamic and insightful discussion as leading national organizations come together to tackle the pressing issue of Canada's global competitiveness in tourism. This national panel features representatives from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, Hotel Association of Canada, Tourism HR Canada, Restaurants Canada, Destination Canada, and Parks Canada. Through collaborative dialogue, these experts will explore innovative strategies and actionable solutions to bolster Canada's standing as a premier global destination. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable perspectives and contribute to shaping the future of Canada's tourism industry.
Moderator: Beth Potter, President & CEO
Panelists: Marsha Walden, President & CEO, Destination Canada; Christine Loth-Bown, Vice-President, External Relations and Visitor Experience, Parcs Canada; Phil Mondor, President and CEO, Tourism HR Canada; Beth McMahon, CEO, Hotel Association of Canada
Kelly Higginson, President and CEO, Restaurants Canada; Keith Henry, President and CEO, Indigenous Tourism Industry Association of Canada
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Congress Showdown: A Spirited Debate on Tourism's Challenges with Plenty of Laughs
Grand Ballroom
3:15 p.m.–4:15 p.m.
Close out this year’s Tourism Congress with an entertaining and thought-provoking session as teams of industry professionals tackle some of tourism's hottest topics. With wit, humour, and sharp commentary, our debaters will dive into issues like the rise of AI in travel planning, the debate around destination fees and over-tourism, and the impact of remote work on local economies. Who will come out on top? You, the audience, will be the ultimate judges! Expect plenty of laughs, a dash of controversy, and fresh perspectives on where Canadian tourism is headed. This light-hearted yet insightful session will remind us that while our industry faces serious challenges, a bit of humour and creative thinking can drive collaboration and inspire innovation.
Host: David McKenna, President, Ridge North America
Debaters: Adame Gerle, President Yukon Convention Bureau; Teresa Ryder, Director of Business Development, ITAC; Pierre Santoni, Director, Intermodal Passenger Transportation Partnerships, VIA Rail Canada; Nancy Small, CEO, Tourism Richmond; Steve Sullivan, Director of Hospitality, QC Group of Companies; Matthew Jelley, President, Maritime Fun Group
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Wrap-Up
4:15 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
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Canadian Tourism Awards Finalists Reception
5:30 p.m.–6 p.m.
Invitation Only
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Canadian Tourism Awards Dinner and Awards Gala
brought to you by the Toronto Star and WestJet
Grand Ballroom
7 p.m.–10 p.m.
TIAC’s Canadian Tourism Awards recognizes the best and brightest in Canada’s tourism industry, from outstanding teams and organizations to individual luminaries who surpass all expectations. The gala will also include the stylings of magician, mentalist, and hypnotist Savio Joseph. (see more below)
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*This is a preliminary program and is subject to change. Please check our website for updates. | |
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We're SOLD OUT!
Thank you to everyone who took the time to reserve their room at our host venue, the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre. We’re excited to share that our room block is now sold out! If you need to make any adjustments or changes to your reservation, please reach out to the hotel directly.
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Canadian Tourism Awards
Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel, Vancouver, B.C.
TIAC’s Canadian Tourism Awards recognizes the best and brightest in Canada’s tourism industry, from outstanding teams and organizations to individual luminaries who surpass all expectations. It presents an opportunity for those who exemplify a commitment to providing nothing short of exceptional tourism experiences from coast to coast to coast to be celebrated by their peers. The gala will also include the stylings of magician, mentalist, and hypnotist Savio Joseph. A very limited number of tickets are available this year, so make sure to add your ticket to your congress registration or purchase it separately to attend this meaningful event on December 5, 2024!
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BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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- CanaDream RV, Rocky View County, AB
- Germain Hotels, Montreal, QC
- Rental Escapes, Montreal, QC
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INDIGENOUS TOURISM AWARD
presented by
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- Dragonfly Spirit CreeAtions Ltd, Spruce Grove, AB
- Klahoose Wilderness Resort, Powell River, BC
- Métis Crossing, Smoky Lake, AB
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SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AWARD
presented by
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- Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventure Tours, Campbell River, BC
- Prince of Whales, Victoria, BC
- Wild Loon Adventure Company, Winnipeg, MB
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BUSINESS EVENT OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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- Banff & Lake Louise Tourism & The 2023 SITE Incentive Summit Americas, Banff, AB
- National Gathering of Elders, Edmonton, AB
- Taste of Place Summit (TOPS), Toronto, ON
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TOURISM EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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- Geoff Argue, Vancouver, BC with The Sutton Place Hotel
- Patrick Ryan, Holyrood, NL with The Wilds Golf Resort
- Louise Weiss, Vancouver, BC with Fresh Tracks Canada
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TOURISM EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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- Accent Inns Inc, Victoria, BC
- Indigenous Box, Leduc County, AB
- Tourism Burnaby, Burnaby, BC
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SMALL- OR MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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- Crystal Cabin Gallery, Tlell, BC
- Fresh Tracks (Canada) Ltd, Vancouver, BC
- Gros Morne Institute for Sustainable Tourism, Rocky Harbour, NL
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INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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- Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, Hopewell Cape, NB
- Rural Rivers. Sturgeon County, AB
- Visitor Experience Centre, Tourism Hamilton, Hamilton, ON
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TRAVEL MEDIA PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARD
presented by
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- Marie Julie Gagnon, Longueuil, QC
- Robin and Arlene Karpan, Saskatoon, SK
- Diane Selkirk, Vancouver, BC
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CULINARY TOURISM EXPERIENCE AWARD
presented by
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- Bar OA Farms, Spruce Grove, AB
- Harvest Eatery, Shaunavon, SK
- The Wilde on 27, Calgary, AB
- Tourism Kingston, Kingston, ON
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LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
presented by
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(All four are recipients of this award of distinction)
- Cindy Ady, Former CEO of Tourism Calgary
- Cathy Duke, Former CEO of Destination St. John’s
- Josef Ebner, Regional Vice-President and Managing Director of the Chelsea Hotel, Toronto
- Mike and Jeanne Reimer, Founders of Churchill Wild
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UNDER-30 TOURISM TRAILBLAZER AWARD
presented by
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(All three are recipients of this award of distinction)
- Sierra Murray, Leduc County, AB
- Eli Moscovitch, Bedford, NS
- Justine Nadeau, Quebec, QC
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