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December 4-5, 2025 | Virtual Event

CANConnect
VIRTUAL EVENT 2025 

Join us for a two-day virtual event experience where business, networking, and entertainment come together – all from the comfort of your own space.

register now

Not Your Average Virtual Event

CANConnect Virtual is designed to maximize meaningful connections while delivering a premium online experience.

1:1 Virtual Meetings

Real partners, real connections through app-based scheduling and video meetings for maximum flexibility.

Educational Breakouts

Engaging virtual sessions on timely topics that matter to today’s MICE professionals—designed to spark ideas and inspire action.

At-Home Experience

Enjoy the CANConnect experience from anywhere. 

Premium Gifting

High-value digital gifts and sponsor items delivered right to your inbox—or via exclusive vouchers you can redeem after the event.

Choose Your Experience

General Admission

$25

Virtual Access Pass

  • Full online access for both days (10 AM – 3 PM)
  • Digital welcome kit
  • Access to all virtual sessions, networking lounges, and interactive activities
  • Event participation reward — receive a refund after completing 8 virtual meetings.
Grab My Ticket

**A refund request must be submitted to team@canconnectshow.com within 7 days after the event concludes.

Hosted Planner Package

free

Premium Virtual Experience

  • Everything in general admission
  • VIP welcome kit
  • 8 guaranteed 1:1 vendor meetings
  • Buyer-only breakout session (pre-event networking)
Apply as Planner Buyer

Note: Hosted Planners who do not attend after being accepted may not be eligible for future CANConnect events.

Keynote Speakers

Devon Montgomery Pasha

Professional Emcee | Facilitator | Experience Engineer 

Topic

Facing the Monster: Turning Fear into Progress

December 4, 2025

read more »

Heather Reid

CEO & Founder of Planner Protect

Topic

Serving Up Smart Food & Beverage Contract Terms

December 5, 2025

read more »

Breakout Sessions

Susie De Giusti

Retreat Host & Experiential Guide

Topic

Boundary Setting in the Events Industry

December 5, 2025

read more »

Heather Andrews

Author, Publisher, and Storytelling Coach

Topic

Writing Your Book: Turning Experience into Influence

December 4, 2025

read more »

Lee Botbijl

Certified osteopathic practitioner

Topic

Breathwork for Focus and Resilience

December 4&5, 2025

read more »

Julie Fairhurst

Author | Publisher | Strategist 

Topic

The Likeability Advantage: How to Stand Out & Build Trust in a Noisy Online World

December 4, 2025

read more »

Muhammad Younas

CEO and Founder of vFairs

Topic

Practical Applications for AI in Events: What's Noise and What's Worth the Hype?

December 5, 2025

read more »

Claire Masikewich

Speaker | Philanthropist | Marketer

Topic

Shift Happens: How To Thrive Through Hard Times

December 5, 2025

read more »

Dave Green

Founder and Chief Mysterious Officer of Mystery Trip

Topic

Experience ThinkTank - Open Talk and Trivia Throwdown

December 4&5, 2025

read more »

Robin O’ Grady

Professional Speaker | Leadership Consultant

Topic

Designing Unforgettable Speaker Moments: A Planner’s Guide to Getting the Best from Your Speakers

December 4, 2025

read more »

Kelsey Dube

Corporate Events Manager 

Topic

Next Generation of Planners

December 5, 2025

read more »

Dack Heslop

Marketing Leader 

Topic

Do's, Don'ts & Things You Should Consider with Planning Event Audio-Visuals

December 5, 2025

read more »

Faith Keiser

Founder of GotchaFinder.ai and EventNation.com

Topic

Money-Saving Framework for Event Planners

December 4, 2025

read more »

Adera Angelucci

Video Producer | Marketer | Speaker

Topic

How to Market and Promote the Event Pre and Post Through the Power of Video

December 5, 2025

read more »

Sean Tyler Foley

Published Author

Topic

Power to Speak Naked

December 4, 2025

read more »

Virtual Agenda Highlights

Join us online from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM MST each day, for two days of learning, networking, and connection—without leaving your desk!

Enjoy the same schedule with different keynote speakers and session topics each day.

  • 10:00 AM MST

Welcome & Registration

Kick off with a live music and explore the virtual platform. Start booking your 1:1 meetings—join the contest for most meetings booked!

  • 10:00 AM MST

Networking & Supplier Sessions

Visit supplier booths, join live webinars, or network in open lounges.
  • 10:30 AM MST

Breakout Sessions

Be inspired by opening talks across interactive breakout rooms.
  • 12:00 PM MST

Lunch Break

Grab lunch, enjoy music, and keep networking casually.

  • 1:00 PM MST

Keynote Session

Join our keynote on the main stage- networking and meetings stay open.
  • 1:30 PM MST

Breakouts & Meetings Continue

Keep learning and connecting- supplier-led sessions and and 1:1 meetings.
  • 2:30 PM MST

Prize Draws

Win exciting prizes! Attend 4+ meetings or webinars to qualify.
  • 3:00 PM MST

Event Wrap-Up

End the day filled with new learnings, connections, and exciting prizes to bring home!

Proudly Supported By Our National Partners

Find all our suppliers and partners HERE.

App Sponsor

Print Sponsor

gift Sponsor

Media Sponsor

Interested in becoming a partner? Contact team@canconnectshow.com

Devon Montgomery Pasha

Date: December 4, 2025 | 1:00 PM

Topic: Facing the Monster: Turning Fear into Progress

In this engaging and thought-provoking session, we’ll explore the powerful metaphor of There is a Monster at the End of This Book and what it teaches us about fear and progress. Like Grover, we often build barriers and hesitate to turn the pages in our own stories, afraid of what lies ahead. But what if the “monsters” we fear are really opportunities for growth in disguise? Through storytelling, humor, and actionable insights, this session will help you rethink your relationship with fear, embrace uncertainty, and move forward with confidence—knowing that progress often hides behind the very things we try to avoid. 

This talk is great at disarming people and making them smile while also bringing attention to how they can overcome their own perceived fears. 

About Devon:

Devon Montgomery Pasha, CMP, CED, is an empowering changemaker, Emcee, and Chief Expereince Oficer at DMP Creative LLC, a firm committed to transforming events into catalysts for growth and impact. Guided by her signature SPARK method, Devon merges event design strategy with dynamic on-stage engagement to create experiences that move audiences, foster connections, and deliver measurable results. 

With over 20 years of expertise, Devon’s unmatched background in professional emceeing, speaking, and facilitation sets her apart. As an award-winning storyteller, she addresses topics like mental health, burnout, and industry challenges, captivating audiences, and igniting productive conversations. Her acclaimed keynote, “Owning Your Scarlet Letter,” invites individuals to embrace change and redefine their narratives, earning praise for its depth and relatability. 

Devon’s industry recognition includes features by MPI, IMEX, Smart Meetings and most recently being names as one of the Top 100 Most Influential in the events industry. She holds CMP and CED certifications and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Creativity and Innovation at Drexel University—all while empowering the next generation of event professionals to embrace transformation through powerful, purpose-driven experiences 

Heather Reid

Date: December 5, 2025 | 10:30 AM

Topic: Serving Up Smart Food & Beverage Contract Terms

Negotiating thorough Food and Beverage terms into event contracts is increasingly an event planner’s responsibility – current contract templates do not address today’s complexities. This session guides event planners through the fine print of event contracts, so you can control costs, avoid financial pitfalls, and negotiate confidently with venues and culinary teams. Whether you’re working with a convention centre or boutique venue and third-party caterer, you’ll learn practical, repeatable strategies that help you plan with certainty and serve with excellence.

About Heather:

Heather is the Founder and CEO of Planner Protect, Canada’s first event contract–focused agency. With 30 years of experience planning conferences and corporate events across North America, she launched Planner Protect in 2013 to help planners and vendors negotiate fair, balanced contracts—ultimately creating over $10M in savings and avoided risk for clients. A graduate of Paralegal Studies and an active member of CanSPEP, MPI, PCMA, and CSAE, Heather is known for her industry leadership, volunteer service, and award-winning contributions, including multiple Smart Woman in Meetings awards and recognition in the Canadian Meetings & Events Expo Hall of Fame. 

A dedicated educator and “contract nerd,” Heather co-created a documented study on the lived experiences of Canadian event planners during COVID-19 and developed the CERTIFIED EVENT CONTRACT PROFESSIONAL program—the first of its kind—built in consultation with respected industry experts and legal counsel. Her certification program supports planners across Canada and the U.S. in building the expertise needed to negotiate stronger, more balanced event contracts. 

Website: plannerprotect.ca  

Susie De Giusti

Date: December 5, 2025 | 11:00 AM

Topic: Boundary Setting in the Events Industry

In the fast-paced world of meetings and events, maintaining balance is key. Susie De Giusti leads this session on practical boundary-setting techniques to help industry professionals manage client demands, protect their time, and sustain long-term creativity and well-being.

About Susie:

With a background in wellness and personal development, Susie De Giusti empowers professionals to set clear boundaries and cultivate balance in demanding environments. Her work inspires sustainable success across the event and hospitality industries.

Heather Andrews

Date: December 4, 2025 | 10:30 AM

Topic: Writing Your Book: Turning Experience into Influence

Your story has power — and it can elevate your professional brand. In this breakout, Heather Andrews shares how event professionals and entrepreneurs can turn their experiences into published works that inspire, educate, and position them as thought leaders in the MICE community.

About Heather:

An author, publisher, and storytelling coach, Heather Andrews helps professionals turn lived experiences into powerful books that elevate their influence and credibility within the business and events community.

Lee Botbijl

Date: December 4&5, 2025 | 12:30 PM

Topic: Breathwork for Focus and Resilience

Events can be high-pressure — your breath can be your anchor. Join Lee Botbijl for a hands-on session exploring breathwork techniques tailored for event professionals to reduce stress, boost focus, and maintain calm energy through busy conference days.

About Lee:

A certified osteopathic practitioner and wellness advocate, Lee Botbijl integrates breathwork and body awareness to help professionals manage stress, stay centered, and perform at their best during high-demand event cycles.

Julie Fairhurst

Date: December 4, 2025 | 11:30 AM

Topic: The Likeability Advantage: How to Stand Out & Build Trust in a Noisy Online World

Today’s online world is crowded, chaotic, and full of noise, but likeability cuts through all of it. In this 30-minute workshop, you’ll learn the psychology and practical strategies behind showing up as someone people trust, enjoy, and want to follow. You’ll walk away with simple, repeatable shifts that make you more relatable, more human, and more impactful online. 

About Julie:

Julie Fairhurst is a master persuader, storytelling expert, and founder of Women Like Me, a global collaborative publishing movement with over 180 authors and 350+ published stories. With 34 years in high-performance sales, marketing, and communication, Julie teaches entrepreneurs and professionals how to build trust, influence, and emotional connection online. Her programs, including the Business Story Blueprint and the Likeability Advantage (full course), help people show up authentically and communicate in ways that move audiences and spark action. 

Take your online presence to the next level, explore programs and support at juliefairhurst.com 

Website: www.juliefairhurst.com 

Muhammad Younas

Date: December 5, 2025 | 10:30 AM

Topic: Practical applications for AI in events: What's Noise and What's Worth the Hype?

As AI begins to infiltrate the event technology space, organizers are trying to understand ways in which it can actually help their events. While organizations launch new ‘AI-powered’ features, not all AI capabilities are built the same. How is an organizer to choose AI features that can bring their events value? To find the true value of these features, they need to accomplish one of three things: reduce resource input during planning & execution, improve stakeholder experiences, or drive monetary action (i.e. sales, leads, etc.) Join Muhammad Younas, CEO of vFairs, as he discusses the true value of AI at events, what to consider when choosing AI-powered features, and how to cut through the noise.

About Muhammad:

As the CEO and Founder of vFairs, Muhammad Younas is on a mission to provide innovative and scalable solutions to businesses around the world and help vFairs become the world’s most loved and trusted technology provider to power events. 

Under his leadership, vFairs has become one of the fastest-growing startups in North America as recognized by Forbes in 2023 and a global leader in the event tech space, offering a cutting-edge platform that enables businesses to host engaging and immersive events online & in person. vFairs currently serves customers across 100+ industries, including government, education, technology, healthcare, telecom, and non-profits, among others. 

Younas holds a Master’s degree in Computer Sciences from The University of Texas at Austin. He is also the recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship and David Bruton Jr. Fellowship. He is a frequent speaker at industry events and has been recognized for his contributions to the technology sector. 

Learn more about award winning event management platform: https://www.vfairs.com 

Claire Masikewich

Date: December 5, 2025 | 1:45 PM

Topic: Shift Happens: How To Thrive Through Hard Times

In this uplifting and impactful session, Claire shares her deeply personal journey through her daughter’s stage 4 cancer diagnosis to illuminate what it really means to take control of your mindset, your actions, and your community—especially in an industry where burnout, constant change, and taking care of others can easily become the norm. 

Professionals in meetings, events, and hospitality spend their days creating exceptional experiences for everyone else. But in the rush of deadlines, unexpected pivots, shifting roles, and nonstop client demands, it’s easy to lose sight of what youreally want. We tell ourselves we’ll reconnect with peers “next month,” invest in professional development “next quarter,” prioritize ourselves “after this busy season”—and suddenly we’re on autopilot, going through the motions instead of moving with intention. 

Claire helps attendees hit pause and rediscover the power of choosing differently. 

She emphasizes that we don’t need a new year, a quieter month, or the “perfect moment” to reset. The real power comes from finishing this year strong and getting clear on what matters now so 2026 begins from a place of intention, not exhaustion. 

Through humour, heart, and hard-won wisdom, Claire shares how controlling your thoughts, how you show up, and the community you build around you can transform not only how you navigate adversity, but how you navigate your career, your relationships, and your day-to-day life. 

Attendees will walk away feeling grounded, energized, and ready to shift from surviving the season to stepping into the new year with clarity, confidence, and purpose. 

About Claire:

Claire Masikewich is a marketing and communications leader who helped launch Canada’s largest surveying firm during the pandemic—bridging two distinct corporate cultures while driving brand growth. In 2023, she paused her career to advocate for pediatric cancer research after her five-year-old daughter Sloane was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma. Claire founded the Strong Like Sloane Foundation and, through initiatives she led and executed, raised over $350,000 for cancer research in just two years. After one year in remission, Sloane relapsed in April 2025, further fueling Claire’s mission to push for awareness, research, and hope. A passionate advocate and resilient leader, Claire’s journey is a testament to finding strength, purpose, and light in life’s hardest moments—and to turning personal adversity into meaningful impact. 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealclairem 

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/clairemasikewich 

Dave Green

December 4, 2025 | 11:00 PM & 12:00 PM
December 5, 2025 | 11:30 PM & 12:00 PM

Topic: Experience ThinkTank - Open Talk and Trivia Throwdown

This breakout is a down-to-earth conversation about what actually helps people feel comfortable, loosen up, and connect with their colleagues. We’ll talk honestly about why so many team-bonding efforts fall flat, what “True Fun” looks like in real life, and how small shifts can make a big difference. Everyone will walk away with a few practical ideas they can use right away.

About Dave:

Dave Green is the Founder and Chief Mysterious Officer of Mystery Trip, an award-winning team-bonding company that’s been creating unique, unexpected experiences across North America for 15 years. He has been featured in outlets like CNN, Forbes, The Boston Globe, SHRM, and Smart Meetings. Known for designing playful, hyper-local adventures that spark real connection, Dave has helped countless teams break out of the ordinary and into the extraordinary. He lives in Los Angeles, but will forever have Philadelphia wooder running through his veins. 

Website: mysterytrip.co   

Robin O’ Grady

Date: December 4, 2025 | 1:45 PM

Topic: Designing Unforgettable Speaker Moments: A Planner’s Guide to Getting the Best from Your Speakers

Event planners juggle venues, menus, sponsors, suppliers, and then there are the speakers. When it works, a great speaker moment elevates the entire event. When it doesn’t, it can feel awkward, flat, or off-brand/theme. 

In this 20-minute, behind-the-scenes style session, professional speaker and former fitness/event leader Robin O’Grady shares how planners can design speaker segments that feel seamless, engaging, and aligned with the rest of the experience. This session is ideal for planners who want their speaker segments to feel intentional, on-brand, and low-stress, both in-person and online. 

About Robin:

Robin O’Grady is an international speaker and corporate culture specialist. She is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve attainable wellness goals, leading to a sustainable workplace culture. She delivers simple strategies and actionable tools that make wellness achievable for everyone.  

Robin’s dynamic presentations are tailored for businesses in need of revitalizing their culture, boosting employee engagement, and reigniting team motivation and productivity. She brings a wealth of experience to her speaking engagements, drawing from her diverse background as an operations director, fitness industry leader, dance instructor, and aerialist. Her sessions are infused with contagious energy and uplifting stories, leaving audiences with renewed vigor and a renewed sense of purpose. 

Website: https://www.robinspeaks.ca/ 

Kelsey Dube

Date: December 5, 2025 | 1:45 PM

Topic: Next Generation of Planners

About Kelsey:

Kelsey is a D.C.-based Events Manager with a B.S. in Communications and CMP certification, building on a background in customer service, account management, and sales. She grew up in Connecticut and has a deep love for the outdoors, delicious food, and just about any furry friend. Kelsey’s events are known for their warmth, intention, and people-first approach – reflecting her energetic style, organized execution, and commitment to sustainability and community-focused impact. 

Connect with Kelsey on LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/kelseytheplanner and message her “CANConnect” + your favorite emoji, so you can stay connected 

Dack Heslop

Date: December 5, 2025 | 11:00 AM

Topic: Do's, Don'ts & Things You Should Consider with Planning Event Audio-Visuals

In the session we will discuss what you should consider when planning your Audio-Visual set-up from the Meeting Planners Perspective. It is a step-by-step guide of how to avoid common pitfalls, enhance your event with current AV trends and what you need to know to ensure your event runs smoothly   

About Dack:

Dack is a seasoned marketing leader with more than 27 years of experience driving brand growth, customer engagement, and experiential innovation. Having extensive experience in AV producing and directing live Business Theater, he understands the brand experience and how live events provide a lasting engagement.    

To learn more about the BRMG Business Theater Experience, please reach out to him dheslop@thebrmg.com 

Faith Keiser

Date: December 4, 2025 | 10:30 AM

Topic: Money-Saving Framework for Event Planners

In this talk, founder of GotchaFinder.ai, Faith Keiser, shares a proven framework that helps planners spend less while maintaining the attendee experience. From timing and venue choices to technology, F&B, vendors, and tracking systems, attendees leave the event with immediately usable, money-saving tactics. Real case examples reveal how simple shifts can produce dramatic budget wins.    

About Faith:

Faith Keiser is a 20+ year event industry veteran and the founder of GotchaFinder.ai and EventNation.com, two platforms helping planners save money and negotiate smarter venue contracts, plus source trusted, peer-reviewed venues and vendors. Known for her practical, innovative cost-saving strategies, Faith’s mission is simple: help overworked planners protect their budgets and deliver great attendee experiences without losing their minds. 

A free tool to save money on venue fees, who doesn’t want that? 

Find it at gotchafinder.ai: a new, free tool that uses AI to spot those budget-busters and reputational risks in venue contracts, then outputs advice from real event planners to inform you before you sign. 

Adera Angelucci

Date: December 5, 2025 | 10:30 AM

Topic: How to Market and Promote the Event Pre and Post Through the Power of Video

Discover how to use strategic video content before, during, and after your event to boost attendance, drive engagement, and extend your event’s impact far beyond the day itself. In this fast-paced session, you’ll learn practical, scalable ways to turn teasers, live clips, and highlight reels into powerful marketing assets that deliver standout results for you and your clients. 

About Adera:

Adera is an award-winning video producer, marketer, and speaker who helps entrepreneurs unlock the power of video to grow their visibility and impact. Known for her practical, easy-to-follow tips, she inspires audiences to create meaningful connections through video while staying focused on what they do.

Chat with Adera to discover how video can amplify your next event. www.spirocreative.ca 

Sean Tyler Foley

Date: December 4, 2025 | 11:30 AM

Power to Speak Naked

Most people aren’t afraid of public speaking-they’re afraid of public judgment. In The Power to Speak Naked, Sean Tyler Foley shows participants how to strip away gimmicks, slides, and jargon so their message lands with clarity and confidence, whether they’re pitching, networking, or presenting. In just 25 minutes, attendees will learn simple, repeatable tools to craft a compelling story, calm their nerves, and connect with any audience. 

About Tyler:

Sean Tyler Foley is a keynote speaker, speaking coach, and #1 best-selling author of The Power to Speak Naked: How to Speak with Confidence, Communicate Effectively, and Win Your Audience. Based in Calgary, he is the Managing Director of Total Buy In, where he helps leaders, business owners, and professionals share their message with authenticity and impact. 

Tyler has over three decades of experience as a performer on stage and screen, appearing in projects such as Freddy vs. Jason, The Order, Fargo, and Ragtime: The Musical. Drawing on his combined background in performance, safety, and business, he has trained thousands of people to replace their fear of public speaking with confidence, clarity, and a signature story their audiences remember. 

Website: seantylerfoley.com 

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