Shared Futures: Designing Inclusive Workplaces for People, Technology and Tomorrow

Wednesday, May 13, 20268:00 AMRegister Now

EDI Forum 2026

Shared Futures: Designing Inclusive Workplaces for People, Technology and Tomorrow

Members:
Individuals: $199 + GST
Table of 8: $1,750 + GST

Non-Members:
Individuals: $299 + GST
Table of 8: $2,750 + GST

Non-profit Organizations & Students:
Individuals: $149 + GST
Schedule:Registration and Breakfast: 8:00 - 8:30 a.m.
Program: 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Shared Futures: Designing Inclusive Workplaces for People, Technology and Tomorrow, presented by the Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Council at the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, brings together the ideas of economic inclusion, intergenerational leadership, and responsible innovation to examine how organizations can build workplace cultures that are fair, adaptable, and resilient.

As workplaces continue to evolve, employers are being challenged to think differently about how they attract talent, support their people, and prepare for the future. From responsible AI adoption and changing employee expectations to mentorship, succession planning, and skills development across generations, we’ll explore how inclusive leadership can help organizations respond to complexity without leaving people behind.

During a time when employers across sectors are navigating affordability pressures, demographic change, talent shortages, and growing demand for innovation that delivers broad-based benefit, we invite you to this practical and forward-looking discussion on how we can design workplaces where people, technology, and opportunity can move forward together.


Presentations

Designing Workplaces Where Everyone Thrives
This presentation will explore how organizations can design inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive by advancing equitable policies and workplace design, fostering psychological safety, and improving the retention of diverse talent.

Kai Scott
Kai Scott, MA (he/him)
President & Senior Strategist
TransFocus Consulting
BIO
Chris May

Moderator

Chris May
General Manager
BC Place (PavCo)

Human-Centered Work: Thriving at the Intersection of People and Technology
As AI and digital transformation reshape the workplace, now is the time to ensure technology and human talent amplify one another rather than compete. This presentation will explore technology as a workforce equalizer, the importance of designing roles around uniquely human strengths, and how inclusive innovation can help prepare for the future of work with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.

Jay Kiew
Jay Kiew
Innovation and Change Navigation Strategist
BIO
Giselle Blackman

Moderator

Giselle Blackman
Vice President, People & Culture
Fit Foods

Panel:

Preparing Talent for Tomorrow: Technology, Generations, and Mentorship

As technology reshapes the workplace, leaders must navigate a workforce with different expectations around how work gets done. This panel will explore generational perspectives on technology, the next generation’s comfort with digital tools, and their willingness to challenge traditional approaches and pivot toward new possibilities. We’ll also examine the role mentorship plays in building inclusive workplaces where employees feel supported, connected and able to contribute fully. By fostering learning across generations, organizations can strengthen their belonging and culture while preparing the next generation of leaders.

Olatunji Awelenje

Olatunji Awelenje

Mentee, Leaders of Tomorrow

Alicia Kent

Alicia Kent

Human Resources Business Partner – BC Region, RBC

Megan Jones

Megan Jones

Partner, National Workforce Transformation Leader, KPMG Canada

Laura Sanchez

Laura Sanchez

Alum, Leaders of Tomorrow

Kristin Wilkes

Moderator

Kristin Wilkes

Vice President, BC, Long View Systems

Additional sessions and speakers to be announced.

Presenting Sponsors:

Supporting Sponsors:

Preferred Venue Partner:

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Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Council Signature Partners:

Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Council Community Sponsors:

Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Council Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Partner:

DLC

This event is presented by the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade's Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Council (DLC) Program. The DLC, an evolution of the Women's Leadership Council program, is an inclusive program that champions and advocates for leadership that best reflects the diversity of the Greater Vancouver region. The DLC focuses on addressing issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion to encourage allyship and enhance business innovation. The DLC is committed to investing in the participation and promotion of underrepresented groups, while supporting the business community to achieve their diversity and inclusion goals. Learn more boardoftrade.com/programs.