2025 Gathering Day 1 Program

Doors open, breakfast, registration

Program starts

Opening comments from Rod Ruff, CEO & President

Keynote Speaker - Ross Pambrun

CEO The Memphis Group | Artificial Intelligence | Innovation Expert | Métis

Keynote & Panel: Navigating Alberta's Green Building Landscape

Keynote: Andrea Linsky (Alberta Ecotrust) Panel: Audrina Lim (Chandos Construction), Melanie Ross (SAIT), Grace Gillman (Biosphere Institute), Carleen Etmanski (City of Edmonton)

Securing Funding for Climate & Environmental Initiatives: Funders’ Perspective

Breakout session. Elizabeth McCallion (Peter Gilgan Foundation), Karen Wilkie (Carthy Foundation), Jerilynn Daniels (RBC Foundation), Gabriela Pino (Alberta Ecotrust Foundation)

Environmental Law and the Rights of Nature

Breakout session. Jason Unger (Environmental Law Centre)

Government are People Too: Getting Over Fears Around Government Relations

Breakout session. Counsel Public Affairs

Case Study of Co-Benefits: Home Upgrades Program

Breakout session. Kambo Energy Group, Alberta Ecotrust Foundation.

Procurement and Circular Economy

Breakout session. Leor Rotchild, upswing solutions.

Lunch

Plenary Session: Bridging Wisdom: An Interactive Drumming Experience

Experience the transformative power of drumming and storytelling in Bridging Wisdom, a 60-minute interactive workshop with Julien Lepage of Circles of Rhythm and Walter MacDonald White Bear, blending Indigenous teachings and community rhythms to inspire connection, balance, and environmental stewardship.

Collaborative State of the Watershed Reporting for Shared Stewardship

Breakout session. Bow River Basin Council

The Power of Collaboration: Multi-Interest Holder Success Stories

Breakout session. Megan Evans (Alberta Native Bee Council), Marina Krainer (Ghost Watershed Alliance), Sabrina Huot (Alberta Emerald Foundation)

Building Retrofits: Financing, Innovation & Real-World Solutions

Breakout session. Peter Amerongen (Retrofit Canada), Deeti Makkar (Alberta Ecotrust Foundation)

Building & Strengthening Partnerships with Municipal Governments

Breakout session. Maya Chorobik and Kate Letizia (Community Energy Association)

Building Bridges: Practical Approaches to Communicating Climate

Breakout session. Amber Bennett (Re.Climate)

Keynote Speaker - Cliffton Cross

Council Member, Frog Lake First Nations

Closing remarks and day end

Networking reception

Networking reception with live music, drinks, and light refreshments. Open for all conference attendees.

Optional social activity - Beading Class

Discover the art of peyote-style beading during this class! This hands-on workshop will guide you through the process of creating a stunning, handcrafted feather—perfect as a meaningful gift or a keepsake for yourself. Join us at Mount Royal University for this creative experience, hosted by Moonstone Creation. Sign up and payment required. See 'add-ons' under 'Get Tickets' on Eventbrite page to reserve your spot!

Optional social activity - Yoga and Soundbath Class

Unwind and recharge with a gentle, beginner-friendly yoga class, designed to calm the mind and body. Immerse yourself in deep relaxation with a soothing sound bath meditation, included as part of the experience. All yoga materials are provided, but feel free to bring your own. Join us at Mount Royal University for this peaceful practice, hosted by Mount Royal Recreation. Sign up and payment required. See 'add-ons' under 'Get Tickets' on Eventbrite to reserve your spot!

Optional social activity - Brewery Tour & Tasting Experience

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes brewery tour, guided by team members who will be available for questions. Afterward, they will return to the event hall, where the experience continues with a curated flight of four beer tasters, accompanied by a guided sensory tasting, offering insight into each brew and its key ingredients. Hosted by Veranda at the Stables. Sign up and payment required. See 'add-ons' under 'Get Tickets' on Eventbrite to reserve your spot!

Conference Bar

Not interested in one of the social activities? Join fellow conference attendees at Veranda at the Stables on Thursday evening for a casual and fun networking experience! Enjoy great company, food, and drink specials—just mention you're with the conference. Don't miss this perfect chance to unwind and connect!