Program
Get ready for an unforgettable day that will ignite your passion and connect you with incredible women from across our sector. Join us on March 11th, 2025 at the Westin Bayshore for an experience you won’t want to miss. Be part of something truly special.
Agenda
07:30 AM - 05:00 PM Registration
07:30 AM - 08:30 AM Breakfast Buffet
08:30 AM – 09:15 AM Opening Address
09:15 AM - 10:00 AM Keynote Presentation
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM Generational Game
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Networking Break
11:00 AM - 12:15 PM Breakout Sessions
12:15 PM - 01:30 PM Lunch and Panel
01:30 PM - 02:45 PM Breakout Sessions
02:45 PM - 03:15 PM Networking Break
03:15 PM - 04:15 PM Panel
04:15 PM - 04:30 PM Closing remarks
04:30 PM - 05:30 PM Closing reception
Meet our Speakers
Tash McLeod is a dedicated advocate for safe, inclusive, and equitable workplaces. As WORTH Association’s first-ever employee and current Operations Manager, Tash has been instrumental in streamlining operations, building organizational capacity, and driving initiatives that educate, elevate, and engage women in recreation, tourism, and hospitality.
Jasmine has over 20 years of Human Resources experience in Canada's Hospitality and Tourism sector. As Director of Human Resources at Parq Vancouver (2014-2019), she excelled in HR strategy, recruiting, training, labor relations, and performance management. Jasmine established D&I hiring standards, shaping the culture for 2,000 employees across the resort.
Jorin McSween is a proud Man of WORTH and Catering Manager at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. During his studies at UFV, Nancy Barker became an incredible mentor and motivator for Jorin and is one of the many Women of WORTH who have influenced and inspired him with their commitment to being heard, being brave, and being a part of something larger than themselves.
A proud UBC alumna who played varsity volleyball for the Thunderbirds, Michelle Collens has made a career of her passion for sport. Michelle is currently the Director of Tourism and Destination Events with the City of Vancouver, working closely with all levels of government, tourism, and community organizations.
Kemi is the founder & president of Wells Luxury Travel, a boutique agency based in Vancouver which specializes in crafting tailor-made trips on all 7 continents with the focus on four core pillars - adventure, celebration, sustainable and wellness travel.
Rehana Din is the Chief Operating Officer for BC Pavilion Corporation (PavCo), the Crown corporation that owns and operates BC Place and the Vancouver Convention Centre. Rehana joined PavCo in September 2013 as its Chief Financial Officer following a career in strategy, operational effectiveness and culture building in the hospitality and entertainment sectors.
Heidi Murphy is a dynamic force in the hospitality industry, blending culinary creativity with strategic vision. As the co-founder of Tribe Called Zest Hospitality LTD, she has built a portfolio of successful restaurants on British Columbia's Sunshine Coast, including the acclaimed Osprey at John Henry's and the beloved Shameful Tiki Room, known for its exceptional cocktail experiences.
One of Canada’s most esteemed culinary experts, Alexandra Gill is a driving force in the hospitality world, championing culinary excellence. As a former critic for The Globe and Mail, she was renowned for her forthright opinions and sharp prose.
Amal Masri is the CEO of Fix The Broken Rung, an organization with the mission of helping one million BIPOC and immigrant women get promoted. Her DEI work is informed by both her lived experiences and her firsthand experience as an executive leading large teams through organizational transformation.
HLI HAYKWHL ẂII XSGAAK, Melanie Mark is a bold and tenacious leader, advocate, and strategist. She has over 25 years' experience in the nonprofit sector, in government, as an elected official and as an entrepreneur- with a demonstrated track record advancing social, environmental, and economic justice through reconciliation.
Chef Sarah offers delicious, organic, Indigenous, sustainable nourishment at Tradish's The Ancestor Cafe. Her goal is to nurture a deeper appreciation for Indigenous culture through culinary experiences & offer visitors an opportunity to learn about Indigenous ingredients through traditional and innovative dishes
Lauren Semple (she/they) is a dynamic leader at the intersection of inclusion, sustainability, and project management. With a human-centred approach to diversity, inclusivity and resilience, Lauren delivers specialized training and guidance to destinations and organizations, all rooted in authentic community connection.
Judith Kasiama is the founder of Colour the Trails, an organization based in Vancouver, BC, with outreach in Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. The initiative advocates for inclusive representation in outdoor spaces by collaborating with brand partners, businesses, and organizations to break down barriers and enhance accessibility.
Beth Potter is a recognized leader with over 35 years of experience in provincial and national associations, including nearly 20 years in the tourism sector. Since March 2021, Beth has served as President & CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada.
Tess is a firm believer in the philosophy of transformation, with concrete examples throughout her 20+ years in the HR industry. She has catalyzed purpose-led paths for people and worked for global brands renown for their transformative People Practices.
Born and raised in the Squamish and Sechelt Nations, Talaysay Campo is a respected Indigenous entrepreneur, health and wellness advocate, and keynote speaker specializing in business and economic reconciliation. Talaysay integrates cultural teachings, sustainability, and Indigenous knowledge into every venture.
Supporting the thriving tourism and hospitality businesses in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains (VCM) region, Cindy Conti delivers expert guidance as the dedicated regional HR Consultant.
Jen Murtagh is co-founder of Maturn, supporting women navigating the intersection of motherhood and leadership. She is an ICF-accredited executive leadership coach, a dynamic speaker, and a workshop facilitator with over 20 years of experience in high-growth environments, both corporate and non-profit.
Puneet (she/her) is an accomplished accountant with 15 years of experience, specializing in the hospitality industry for the past decade. Her passion for food, nurturing people, and promoting team-first philosophies led her to find a perfect match in this field.
Having trained under renowned chefs throughout her career, at the age of 21, Detkavich found herself competing for the title of Top Chef Canada; making history as the youngest and first Indigenous woman to ever compete.
Now the Director of Partnerships for the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, Teresa has spent more than 10 years in Indigenous tourism development. She is an experienced speaker, facilitator and trainer and advocate for the betterment of Indigenous Peoples.