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“The Power of Networking”, Canadian Club Toronto’s panel on making connections to build career pathways, took place on November 14^th, 2017. Gillian Riley (EVP, Canadian Commercial Banking, Scotiabank), Andrew Graham (CEO, Borrowell), David Simmonds (VP Enterprise Strategy, McKesson) and Pam Warren (Partner, Egon Zehnder) took part in the event hosted by Director Jake Hirsch-Allen at LinkedIn Canada headquarters. Perry Monaco, Head of Customer Success at LinkedIn joined as the moderator for this evening event.

Hirsch-Allen opened by reminding the crowd of the long-held wisdom we’ve heard one time or another: It’s not what you know, it’s who you know; generally, anyway. A self-described “hyperactive networker”, Hirsch-Allen found his home at LinkedIn helping users make powerful connections that advance their careers and pathways. After introducing the panel and saying a few words about what success in networking can lead to, Monaco took the reins.

Monaco recalled his first meeting with Hirsch-Allen as an example of how our pathways can be very linear, or full of “zigs and zags” – the latter applying to Hirsch-Allen who left law to join the networking site. He then posed the same question to the panel: “What was your career path like?” Was it meticulously planned or did it also have zigs and zags? Simmonds, Vice President of Enterprise Strategy at McKesson, was first to answer. Coming from a Jamaican immigrant family, becoming a professional of some sort was expected, he said. “My mother still has my law school admission letter in a shoebox.” Taking a job with Navigator the summer before heading off to school invigorated new passions, and the Chairman of the company at the time encouraged him to follow his heart or risk wasting his time. Following his original path and venturing into new worlds were both risks, he acknowledged, but ultimately lead to his success. Warren chimed in, saying that her parents’ belief in her allowed her to explore her career path along the way. She stressed the importance of listening to the “what about’s…?” and being willing to learn and get exposure. The freedom to explore and to have the support to back it up is something she hoped to pass onto her children.

Monaco kept the ball rolling, asking the panel to name the best connection they’ve ever made. Riley had didn’t zero in on one person specifically, but gave credit to anyone who had ever challenged her to work outside her comfort zone and to the people who gave objective advice and feedback. Graham named friend and co-founder of Borrowell, Eva Wong, as someone who is not only an important voice in the tech world, but someone whose skills are directly complimentary to his.

Addressing a common fear of people looking to network, Monaco asked the panel for tips on how to approach someone about getting in touch with their circle without being too “invasive or salesy”. Warren encouraged people to be specific in what they are asking. Instead of a broad plea asking for connections, outline how you think the person on the other end could help you, or ask if they could point you in the direction of a couple different people to chat with, she said. Graham takes a “double opt-in” approach, having those that want to make a connection write an email to the person they would like to be connected with stating why they think it would be a beneficial bridge. Simmonds employed a family favourite phrase: “You should do all the good you can to all the people you can.” He explained that he thinks a lot of people are “obsessed with connection culture” that really only allows for shallow relationships. He prefers to know someone on a deeper level that has common goals when making introductions.

The world of social media has most certainly changed the way we network, Monaco said. “In theory, it should be easier.” However, there ends up being a lot of noise. Considering that, he asked about the role of social media and smartphones in networking. Warren, a recruiter by career, shared the fear that a lot of search professionals had about LinkedIn at its conception: it would “disintermediate” their business. As it turned out, the site was a powerful tool. Social media has allowed recruiters to speed up connections and find information on prospective candidates more readily, she said. Riley emphasized the importance of being thoughtful about what you post online. Simmonds agreed, adding: “You can’t correct the record if the source is you…content is king.”

“If you don’t think you have a social media strategy, you’re wrong.” Monaco said bluntly. Your strategy is what people get when they search your name. “…if you don’t know what’s there, you don’t own it.” These results contribute to your personal brand. He then asked the panel for their advice on building this brand. Riley affirmed how important it is to have one, but that it needs to be authentic. It needs to be inclusive of your strengths but also has to differentiate you from others and you need to be able to articulate it quickly and off the bat, she said. Warren echoed this, suggesting that people test their personal brand with people that know and love them. As in, explain what you think your personal brand is and then ask others if they get that sense from you. Graham said that personal branding is important but it means very little if you don’t have something successful to market. Simmonds advice was simple: make sure you are doing a good job at your current place of work before applying elsewhere. Otherwise, you won’t have credibility elsewhere.

After much lively discussion and banter from the panel, the evening veered into Q&A period. The first question concerned how the panel would brand themselves and get connections if the internet wasn’t an option. Riley answered first, saying that she didn’t think it would be much different, as social media is just a tool and good connections can still be made through phone calls and during meetings. Although, she acknowledged it would include more face-to-face interaction.  Monaco agreed, sharing that he thinks social media is just an extension of what we should be doing in real life.

Next, an audience member wondered about how those on the panel would feel if a candidate didn’t share their social media handles. Warren shared that she generally searches candidates that she’s excited about immediately, but also that it depends on the role you’re applying for. As a rule of thumb, jobs in industries like public relations, communications and marketing would benefit from a public profile. Riley chimed in, saying she would likely not look at someone’s Twitter feed.

When questioned about how many connections really are enough, Warren’s philosophy is quality over quantity. However, she pointed out that generations behind hers do have to think about numbers in certain industries that demand a large following, like modelling and blogging.

“Are there things people are doing wrong when they reach out to you, when it comes to networking?” asked an attendee. Simmonds referenced advice given earlier, that it is imperative to be specific in what you’re asking. As well, know the difference between a mentor and a sponsor as they can have two very different outcomes. Monaco added his two cents, saying that being disingenuous was the biggest networking faux-pas.

The final question of the night was the culmination of everything that had been said: “Why?” As in, why would a member of the panel go out of their way for someone they’ve never met? Monaco said simply: “Karma.” Riley said she usually helps those that are willing to get and give and those that can help her learn something new. Simmonds was frank, acknowledging that sometimes professionals just need to take a chance on people. He also pressed the importance of looking for talent in “non-traditional communities.”

“The Power of Networking” audience was a mix of people from all walks of the Toronto scene. In a world that is changing and innovating at a rate that is faster than even our smartphones can keep up with, the way we do business is no exception to that. At the end of the day, the running theme of the night was putting the humanity back in making connections. Our willingness to learn and be honest and genuine will spell out continued success in all industries, and will change the way we all work as a whole.

David Simmonds really said it best: “The greatest gift I’ve ever got from two different leaders is the permission to bring my whole self to work…As we work in a different society, we look differently, we sound different, we love differently. Have the courage to bring your full self to the table and if you can’t at that employer and in that environment, then they’re not good enough for you.”

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If you’d like to know more about Canadian Club Toronto or our upcoming events, find us on Twitter: @CdnClubTO, Instagram: @CdnClubTO or Facebook: Canadian Club Toronto.

Special thanks to our panel for taking the Canadian Club Toronto stage. Thanks extended to Canadian Club Toronto Director Jake Hirsch-Allen for hosting.

Former Senior Speechwriter to President Barack Obama, Sarada Peri, joined Canadian Club Toronto on October 31^st to discuss her experiences in the White House and the true power of language in times of uncertainty.

Club President Gillian Riley hosted the event, welcoming Peri as “one of the most effective speechwriters of our time”. The former teacher and Principal at West Wing Writers is now a Global Visiting Fellow at Ryerson Leadership Lab, prompting her visit to Toronto.

“Well this is intimidating.” Peri laughed, taking the podium. She began by praising the opportunity to visit Canada with the current state of affairs in America. “It’s a breath of fresh air to spend time in Toronto…and get much needed perspective.” On the same note, she expressed that she felt she had to apologize to Canadians for America’s “addiction to toxic politics.” Delving into her remarks, she promised to follow her own advice: “Be brief. Be honest. Pay your speechwriter on time.”

Peri fondly recalled Obama’s presidency, referring to him as the “one that got away”. His vision for the US and how he used words to shape the story of the nation were things she respected and believed were best case scenario, as evidenced throughout her address. The first time she truly understood his unique oratory gift she said, was at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Dinner in September of 2014. To prepare for one of her first assignments, she read the remarks from previous presidents and found that most contained platitudes about what their administration had done to combat inequalities without addressing the core causes of these inequalities or offering vision.  The experience in itself was stressful, mortifying and surreal for Peri after dropping all of her belongings on the floor and being teased by President Obama. But looking back at the speech, she felt it really proved his ability to take the moment or event and place it within the “larger context of the American story.” His address at the Dinner veered off traditional course by opening with a frank discussion of civil rights in the US, and prompting Americans to continue this “never-ending project of perfecting the union.” Peri believed that this speech was an excellent example of American exceptionalism in Obama’s view: “America is special not because we are perfect. America is special because we work to address our problems to make our union more perfect.”

Obama’s first campaign in 2008 resonated with people around the world, Peri said. The universal message of love and hope over fear meant people “were able to place their own hopes and dreams into that vision.” She admitted that perhaps it was naïve to think that “speeches matter at all”, but affirmed that Obama consistently used his position to fit all narratives into the bigger picture. It makes sense that young nations like the US and Canada feel new and inexperienced because we are inherently tied to the struggles of our past, Peri said. President Obama wanted to make citizens realize their impact on something bigger than just themselves, and this was something he employed in all of his speeches no matter the size, she shared. His presidency created, in her eyes, a broader idea of what it means to be American. This meant giving respect to all areas of American life, including an important spotlight on arts and culture. Justin Trudeau’s tearful interview following the death of beloved Canadian musician Gord Downie reminded Peri of Obama’s goodbyes to a number of cultural icons that illustrated an authenticity that is an integral part of society. This seemingly overwhelming optimism by no means meant the President romanticized his role or the state of the nation, Peri said. But rather, that he was willing to tell “brave truths” in order to build a better society. His approach didn’t capture everyone in the same way, Peri admitted. For every one person that respected his endeavour to be honest about American shortcomings, there was another that thought anything of the sort was unpatriotic. For example, his address at the National Prayer Breakfast received heavy backlash after he suggested that every religion had experienced violent extremism at some point in history. One senator declared this “the most offensive, unpatriotic thing an American had ever said.” So of course he wasn’t capable of persuading everyone, but truthful and authentic above all else, she added.

“Isn’t Trump authentic?” she asked, mirroring the voices of the media. While his supporters would insist he’s brave, “…saying whatever nonsense comes out of your head and berating Americans with racist, sexist and offensive tropes is in no way brave.” There is nothing courageous or truthful or authentic in throwing kindle on the deeply burning hatred living in some people, she said. On his ability to lead the country successfully, Peri believes Trump will always fall short. Quite simply, she posed: “You can’t lead the country if you’re alienating half of it.” The difference between Obama’s authenticity and Trump’s perceived authenticity is that Obama’s truth lies in being honest about touchy subjects “but not for shock value.” The bully pulpit, a term thought to be coined by former US President Theodore Roosevelt, expresses the inherent power that comes along with the presidential role to advocate change for the nation. In Peri’s words, our best presidents have created moments of unity through bully pulpit; the current president “uses the pulpit to bully”.  She reminded the audience that Trump didn’t secure office by himself. A number of people and systems were complicit in his election: media that dedicated air time to catching his every move and drew parallels between the shortcomings of him, and his competitor Hilary Clinton, social media outlets that allowed the planting of targeted stories by Russian hackers (a story still developing, Peri pointed out), and of course, “deep and damaging misogyny that rewarded a self-proclaimed sexual predator”. Getting out of this situation is on us, Peri asserted. “The forces at work here are bigger than the powers of presidential persuasion.”

The day after the 2016 Presidential Election was a very sad scene at the White House, Peri recalls. Obama staffers joined on the colony overlooking the infamous rose garden. Despite the sorrow that hung in the air, Obama spoke with his staffers: “We zig and zag. Sometimes we move in ways that people think are moving forward, and others think are moving back.” He shared the universal truth that progress does not lie in one person, or even a generation. To close, Peri echoed these thoughts: “Presidents can try to offer us their vision and persuade us, but whether we choose to follow is up to us.”

Gillian Riley took the stage once again to kick off the Q&A portion of the afternoon. The first question asked about the composition of the “Amazing Grace” speech, which took place in Charleston, South Carolina after the mass murder of nine black churchgoers by a white supremacist. Though Peri was not involved with the speech, she expressed that having someone with lived experience (in this case, a Black man who had dealt with racism his entire life) really mattered. He debated on the plane ride over about actually singing Amazing Grace, which he did.

When asked how Democrats could rise above “the Twitter President”, Peri suggested focussing on the goings on in the lives of Americans and how Republican policy and this presidency have impacted their lives.

Taking another question from the audience, Riley asked Peri what her vision for the American story is. Though it may be a cop out, she said, she truly shares Obama’s vision of being part of the larger picture. Understanding patriotism as simply standing and saluting is “a really dangerous path”, she said. America is a nation of immigrants, “born out of original sin” and colonialism that must keep striving for better and offering life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for absolutely everyone, she insisted.

The last question asked Peri what speech she was proudest of during her time in the Oval Office. “I give a different answer every time I’m asked this.” Ultimately, she decided her work on Obama’s keynote speech at the State of Women Summit was her shining moment. In speeches like these, there is usually plenty of jargon about women’s empowerment and “shout outs to the interest group”, she said. Instead, Obama’s address held everyone accountable for these inequalities and also shared why women’s ideas and issues affect everyone in a “raw and honest way”.

Sarada Peri’s reality, like many Americans, has changed drastically since her time in the White House. It is hard to imagine that there has ever been such a remarkable juxtaposition of leaders in such a short period. Despite the constant reminders of what was, and now what is, Peri embodies the same optimism as her former boss. “Something that hasn’t changed is a democracy is still best run on the fuel of hope, not fear.”

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If you’d like to know more about Canadian Club Toronto or our upcoming events, find us on Twitter: @CdnClubTO, Instagram: @CdnClubTO or Facebook: Canadian Club Toronto.

Special thanks to Sarada Peri for being a guest of Canadian Club Toronto. Thanks extended to Canadian Club Toronto President Gillian Riley for hosting.

Canada’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Marc André Blanchard, joined us for a joint event with Le Club Canadien de Toronto on Monday, October 16^th to deliver remarks about his international agenda and to discuss the leadership role Canada takes on the world stage.

Host and Canadian Club Toronto Director, Awi Sinha, opened the event with a welcome in both of the country’s official languages. Listing just a few of the Ambassador’s many accomplishments; Sinha highlighted Blanchard’s background in law and business. He also applauded his decision to join the Canadian NAFTA Council in a volunteer role. “Canada is fortunate, in these times, to have a permanent representative to the UN.” Sinha remarked.

Taking the stage, Blanchard was all smiles. “I’m so touched…Sometimes we don’t celebrate our bilingualism enough in this country…it makes us stronger and more relevant.”, he said. He also acknowledged young Canadian excellence by recognizing two groups of students in attendance: University of Waterloo and York University, both finalists in the 2017 HULT Competition.

Ambassador Blanchard began by sharing two things he had quickly come to realize during his time with the UN: Firstly, that the world has very high expectations of Canada. Secondly, that Canadians have the opportunity to make a big difference now more than ever.  With the sheer amount of chaos currently restricting the planet, Blanchard suggested that Canada has “a lot to contribute in terms of solutions”. In a conversation with Blanchard, the Ethiopian Ambassador to the UN praised Canada’s reintroduction on the world stage, saying “…you have the ability to make things happen like very few countries in the world have.”

Staying relevant and involved in our international community were two ideas that the Ambassador re-iterated frequently in his address. According to Blanchard, the current agenda of the world as a whole is “tailor-made” for Canada and Canadians. He noted that investing our time and energy on international projects will not only help people around the world, but will also maintain Canada’s relevance.

Discussing Canada’s showing at the recent UN General Assembly, Blanchard couldn’t have been more pleased. He lauded Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s speech as the high point, and applauded what is considered as Canada’s most active opening ever. Co-hosting 20 events, taking part in 40 bilateral meetings and having delegates participate in over 200 events meant Canada was actively staying in the spotlight.

In response to the ongoing conflict in Syria, Canada has gained credibility relating to immigration, Blanchard said. He recalled how Canada was able to remedy a Security Council deadlock by mobilizing enough member states to help the people of Aleppo. The end of this deadlock meant a call on the Syrian government to allow outside humanitarian aid and allowed evacuation for a portion of the population. Of course, the situation in Syria is still dire. Blanchard reminded the audience that this intervention was too little too late for many of the people of Syria. But Canada’s push to the world meant that there was help on the way for those still on the ground. “Our willingness to lead those difficult conversations at the UN meant steps in the right direction were taken.”

Protecting human rights around the world is one of the main priorities for the UN. However, these situations are precarious and fragile, oftentimes. Naming conflicts in Myanmar and Iraq, as well as the rise of the alt-right in North America and across the world, Blanchard said we must remain vigilant. When “many in the rest of the world…[choose] to look elsewhere” Canada has to be the one to bite the bullet and adapt our advocacy. The Ambassador insisted that “preaching, imposing and threatening will not work”, and instead we must always focus on partnerships, support and sharing our ideas and solutions.

The future in the UN’s hands is bright, Blanchard said. The Canadian government will once again join the peacekeeping forces of the UN. Currently, the forces have 125,000 peacekeepers on the ground in 16 conflicts around the world. He also spoke excitedly about the UN’s agenda on development. In 2015, history was made when 193 member states agreed on a strategic plan to improve the well-being of the planet and its people. He was referencing Agenda 2030, which highlights 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) including ending poverty, fighting climate change and strengthening gender equality that will contribute to a truly healthy world. At the request of former Secretary General of the UN Ban Ki-moon, Blanchard began to look into the economic demands of this program. After discovering the large amount of capital needed to finance Agenda 2030, the Ambassador concluded that convincing the business world to align their investments with SDGs would be the only feasible solution. A working group established by Blanchard and the Jamaican Ambassador to the UN has begun to do just that: helping to align the private sector with sustainable development.

To close, the Ambassador discussed Canada’s campaign for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council in 2021 and 2022. “We believe that we can contribute even more significantly to resolving major issues relating to development, peace and security.” Blanchard said. Pointing to Canada’s comeback on the international stage, he also affirmed that “Canada’s voice is one that the world today wants to hear.”

During question period with host Awi Sinha, Blanchard was asked about Canada’s likelihood of securing the open seat on the Security Council. “These things are highly competitive.” He said, pointing to other strong contenders Ireland and Norway. The chances are good, he remarked, but that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t put our best foot forward. Votes are given by member states for a variety of reasons and we should never be too presumptuous, he said. Another question from the crowd prompted discussion about reforms to UN infrastructure. The Ambassador believed the focus should be on management reform, reform of the development sector and peace operations. This boils down to managing resources and allocating funds properly, he said. “In the context of the UN, it’s a big, big change.”

The United Nations is a large, complex structure. Despite the best efforts of its member states, there will always be conflict and boxes left unchecked. It’s easy to fault the UN. But ultimately, it is up to each individual state to be committed to a better and healthier future for the planet. Before judging the organization, Blanchard suggested we all employ one of his favourite quotes: “The UN was not created to take mankind to heaven, but to save humanity from hell.”

With our survival and development resting on the ability to unify and work toward a sustainable planet, we need a leader. Remaining a figure on the international stage bodes well for not only Canada, but for the rest of the world.

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If you’d like to know more about Canadian Club Toronto or our upcoming events, find us on Twitter: @CdnClubTO, Instagram: @CdnClubTO or Facebook: Canadian Club Toronto.

Special thanks to Ambassador Marc-André Blanchard for being a guest of Canadian Club Toronto. Thanks extended to Canadian Club Toronto Director Awi Sinha for hosting the event and Monique Telmosse, President of Club Canadien de Toronto, for thanking.

Canadian Club Toronto was pleased to welcome Ontario’s CEO Panel for the first event of the 2017/18 season on Thursday, September 21^st.

The panel discussed the recently released report from Ontario’s Panel on Economic Growth and Prosperity, entitled “The Future is not destiny: CEO perspectives on realizing Ontario’s potential”. The report was the result of interviews with 33 CEOs and futurists from Ontario, which were conducted to find solutions to the challenges facing Ontario’s businesses and economy, as well as to find out which practices were highlighting Ontario’s strengths.

Three of the futurists interviewed for the report took the Canadian Club Toronto stage. Mary-Ellen Anderson (Vice-President, Developer Experience and Evangelism, Microsoft Canada), Stephen K. Carlisle (President and Managing Director, General Motors Company of Canada), and Bruce Flatt (Chief Executive Officer, Brookfield Asset Management) were introduced by Professor Tiff Macklem (Dean, Rotman School of Management and Chair of the Ontario Panel on Economic Growth) and joined by moderator Kilian Berz (Senior Partner & Managing Director, The Boston Consulting Group).

Professor Tiff Macklem, began by giving a brief summary of the report and its process. The interviews were all “fascinating structured conversations”, he said, that focused more on where Ontario can be in 10-20 years, as opposed to next year. The million dollar question for the interviewees? What can business and governments do to realize Ontario’s potential. All of the CEOs displayed a certain kind of humility about not knowing what’s to come, which inevitably vanished, joked Macklem.

He revealed that common themes materialized very quickly among the interviews. Collectively, there was a “great deal” of optimism about Ontario potential and a general agreement that it was a great place to live and work. The CEOs highlighted that Ontario was blessed with an abundance of natural resources and a diversity of workers and their skillsets. Something that was frequently echoed was the need to find new sources of growth to sustain the standard of living we’ve come to know. Our three greatest advantages overall, Macklem said, are talent access and development, international talent attraction and the level and quality of Ontario research. What’s holding us back? Macklem pointed to our research commercialization capacity, capital commitment to innovation and an aversion to risk taking.

Macklem brought up the hesitation from governments and companies to take on Canadian ventures until they are proved in a US market, something that Mary-Ellen Anderson pointed out later on, is almost never a problem for US ventures. Our startups are great and plentiful but lack the ability to scale up in a global market. To share their insights on Ontario’s path to a successful future, Macklem handed it off to the Kilian Berz, the panel’s moderator.

Berz posed that in 30 years’ time, Ontario could look one of two ways: the first, with a flourishing economy driven off great talent with advanced new sectors. The second, having existing sectors on the decline with the inability to make our mark on the new generation of innovation. We have a lot going for ourselves, he said, but what’s missing from our current narrative and how would that translate into the future?

Bruce Flatt chose the first way, unsurprisingly. He went on to say that Canada is known as an amazing place to do business, with one of the “great unwritten stories” being the Canada Pension Plan. That, along with our financial and advisory systems, are the envy of the world, he said. He gave credit to the tech industry, praising it as “fantastic”. However, he remarked that the stories of our successes, like the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), are not highlighted enough.

Anderson thought that the narrative is completely missed by those outside Canada. In her eyes, we know we are great and innovative, but we need to “do a better job of telling our story, and making sure that the rest of the world knows what Canadians are capable of. Carlisle remarked that he would’ve agreed with Anderson a short time ago, but now is more concerned about the scarcity of certain skillsets in the 21^st century as investors come in looking to hire.

“What is the strongest differentiating strength that we have?” asked Berz. “How do we deal with limitations?”

Carlisle applauded our STEM education systems, adding that our grads and schools are consistently at the forefront of the industry. But he wondered if STEM alone was enough to be successful; as in, there is something very human about a lot of the work involved, or at the very least a lot of humans involved in the work. Adding the Arts to STEM, results in STEAM, Carlisle said. Having well-rounded, multifaceted people in these industries contribute to a stronger force.

Anderson then brought up one of the most contentious issues in this conversation globally: How do we get women involved? With something like only 1 in 100 young girls being interested in STEM careers, how do we grow that interest? Berz zeroed in on that concern, adding that getting women involved in the economy would be the biggest driver for growth. What could we be doing to facilitate an environment that encourages the participation of women?

Anderson shared that her company had recently been participating in the blind reading of resumes for new hires. As in, all of the names are removed so that the gender of the person applying isn’t the focus, but rather the skills. We also have to look at the way that we advertise roles, she said. The words we use or the way that we pose a job opportunity can unintentionally define a role as masculine. Advertising roles as ones that respect work/life balance, offer remote opportunities, and promote the ability to learn is a step in the right direction, she said.

Carlisle remarked that there is a critical period around the 8^th grade, where young women generally decide if they are interested in going into a STEM field. Making an effort to engage women prior to this time is crucial to ignite a spark for those who may otherwise abandon the idea.

Another hot topics arose next: Canadian aversion to risk taking. This promted Berz to ask if the problem was a mindset or a structural one.

Flatt thought simply that we needed more time. Over the past 25 years, he said, there have been many success stories of Canadians finding their way into the international market. The next 25 will be even better. He denied that people avoid taking risks, and believed our patience would be rewarded. As of now, there’s lots of international interest and a lot of money, but little opportunity, he said.

Anderson said that the risk aversion was a concern of hers. It has improved in the last couple of years with more start-ups being able to stay, she added. She called for Canadians to embrace our solutions as quickly as the US does. Start-ups like Shopify, Hootsuite and Slack were nowhere near perfect when they launched but have now found success by learning the ropes and working toward a better solution.

The final question from Berz: What advice would you give to our political leaders to help us lead into the future?

Flatt said making the environment right for small and large businesses would be beneficial. Anderson stressed the need for embracing cultural diversity, and would ask our political leaders to make acquiring international talent possible. Carlisle finished with “Speed is critical.”

Canadian Club Toronto President Gillian Riley then took the stage to conclude. “Thanks for kick starting our season with such and rich and engaging conversation.” She expressed what an enviable position Ontario is in as the “economic engine” of Canada, and praised the panel for helping us think about ways to continue this legacy.

It is easy as Canadians to feel, at times, second place as we sit above a great economic power. But with the vision of our talented business leaders and futurists, we are reminded of our successes. Our championing of innovation, growth and diversity make us both an ideal place to call home and an economic powerhouse.

“Future is definitely not a destiny, but it’s in our hands to turn it to gold. So let’s do that.” – Kilian Berz 

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If you’d like to know more about Canadian Club Toronto or our upcoming events, find us on Twitter: @CdnClubTO, Instagram: @CdnClubTO or Facebook: Canadian Club Toronto.

Special thanks to Mary-Ellen Anderson, Stephen Carlisle, Bruce Flatt, Tiff Macklem and Kilian Berz for being  guests of Canadian Club Toronto. Thanks extended to President Gillian Riley for hosting the event and thanking.

The Canadian Club Toronto’s final event of the 2016/17 season featured decorated journalist Peter Mansbridge. On Monday, June 19th, Mansbridge took the podium to reflect on his 5 decades with CBC prior to his July retirement.

Mansbridge posed a question to the audience: “What is a Canadian?” He said that he had been trying to answer it for as long as he could remember. To navigate his way through a simply-phrased but complex question, he travelled the world and told the stories of over 15,000 people. His address to the Canadian Club recounted just 3 of these stories.

His first anecdote took the room to the summer of 1979 in Eastern Asia. Hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese people had escaped their homeland seeking a new life. Small boats took people to safety wherever it could be found. Mansbridge was covering news stories in Japan and Hong Kong when he came across a refugee camp that was taking in those who had fled Vietnam. Talking with these people who had left everything behind to keep their families safe really touched Mansbridge, saying it was something he carried with him for a long time. 30 years later, he was handing out one of his yearly scholarships to a young woman in Milton, Ontario. While taking a photo with the girl and her family, her mother revealed that they had been on one of those boats many years ago, and she was so proud of the life she was able to give her daughter. “The story had come full circle.” he said.

The second took place in 2005, after Sri Lanka had been devastated by the South-Asian tsunami that has been dubbed one of the deadliest natural disasters in history. While delivering updates on location, Mansbridge ran into a group of children playing soccer. After playing for a while, one of the girls pointed to the Canada flag pin attached to his lapel and said “Canada good.” Bringing in the team’s translator, they had learned from the girl that all of the children had been given vaccines by Canadian nurses that same morning. Venturing from their original spot, Mansbridge and team found the medical tent being run by 3 Vancouver nurses that had come to help of their own volition. Using their own money and taking time off from their jobs, the women had vaccinated and treated hundreds of locals. “That was a proud moment to be a Canadian.”

The final story took place in Europe in 1994. Through the pouring rain in Apeldoorn, The Netherlands, Dutch people lined the streets waving Canadian flags. 100s of Canadian veterans were applauded, celebrated and met with admiration from the onlookers. In 1945, Canada was instrumental in the liberation of Apeldoorn, and the people had certainly not forgotten. Mansbridge was covering the event when he came across a young woman at the front of the line, carrying her young son. When he inquired about her reason for being there in the pouring rain, she said “I’m here because I want my son to know what a Canadian is.”

Mansbridge was finally ready to answer the question that had haunted him for his entire journalistic career. The anecdotes that he shared on the CCT podium all showcased the perspectives that others had from outside our country about what it means to be a Canadian. “The answer is simple…being a Canadian means we care.” he concluded. Mansbridge talked of Canadians’ reputation for combatting hate at home and abroad, and caring about neighbours “next door, across the street, and across the world.”

In a Q & A with Canadian Club Toronto President-Elect Gillian Riley, Mansbridge revealed that his media consumption is usually in the morning prior to his senior CBC meetings. He is a big fan of Twitter and social media, and thinks that television on its own isn’t enough to keep people informed. When asked about where he sees the future of journalism and what young journalists can do to set themselves apart, he answered with a half-shrug. “I don’t really know…everything is changing so fast.” His best advice was to stay on top of an ever-changing marketplace, and above all else, to “think big, be ambitious and be prepared to start small.”

One of Riley’s final questions for Mansbridge was “Who was the most interesting person you ever interviewed?” Citing the exponential number of interviews he’s conducted, he concluded that it would be difficult to choose just one. While celebrities and famous people are fun and interesting to interview, he said, it was the ordinary people with extraordinary stories that stuck with him. Someone with a raw, honest story who wasn’t looking to “spin” anything was always the most impactful for him.

Speaking on behalf of all Canadians and the international community, we thank you Mr. Mansbridge for your unparalleled dedication and passion to give us the whole story. By interviewing people from all over the globe and all walks of life, you’ve given us all a better sense of ourselves as Canadians and as human beings. The mark you’ve left is one that will never be forgotten, and could never be replaced.

All the best to you, Peter.

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If you’d like to know more about Canadian Club Toronto or our upcoming events, visit us at canadianclub.org. Find us on Twitter: @CdnClubTO, Instagram: @CdnClubTO or Facebook: Canadian Club Toronto.

Special thanks to Peter Mansbridge for being a guest of Canadian Club Toronto. Thanks extended to Fred Mifflin for hosting the event and Gillian Riley for thanking.

In celebration of Pride Month, Canadian Club Toronto was pleased to welcome Randy Boissonnault, Special Advisor to PM Trudeau on LGBTQ2 issues and Edmonton Centre MP this past Thursday, June 15th. Hosted by CCT Director Michael Bach, the event featured Mr. Boissonnault telling his own story, and then talking policy and history with Egale’s Helen Kennedy.

Boissonnault began with his own personal history, recounting his struggles living in Alberta in the 1970s as a deeply closeted gay man. He talked of running far away from queer spaces to avoid the suspicions of others, but also to hide from what he knew to be true about himself. In 2013, he sought out the nomination for Edmonton Centre. Boissonnault recalled having dinner with a friend who told him that a gay Francophone would never make it here, and he should return to Montreal…a place in which he never resided. Proving them wrong, he was elected in 2015.

“People will underestimate us.” he asserted. The triumphs of the LGBTQ2 community have not been without backlash, doubt and violence. Pride parades which now happen all across the globe, started small and quiet, he recounted. Boissonnault remembered marches that included as few as 30 participants. Which grew to 300. That grew to 1000’s. Toronto Pride had humbler beginnings, which can be hard to conceive when one peeks out at the sea of rainbow that lines Church-Wellesley village today. Things didn’t change overnight, and didn’t change without the bravery of LGBTQ2 people, Boissonnault pointed out. The diversification of Canadian political caucuses has in turn, been able to reflect the voices of these Canadians. This has resulted in the gained protections, marriage equality, and equalized benefits for many LGBTQ2 people.

The next big task will be expunging criminal records for LGBTQ2 people in Canada who were unfairly punished for being queer. An apology is also expected to be a part of this plan, Boissonnault said. In addition, Boissonnault is committed to better serving gender diverse Canadians, improving health care for LGBTQ2 people and providing safe and adequate housing for LGBTQ2 people, specifically youth and seniors.

There are big consequences for not getting things right, Boissonnault warned. In Canada, 13% of hate crime victims are targeted because of their sexuality/gender identity, with 40% of those victims being under 25. LGBTQ2 youth are twice as likely to be homeless when compared to straight, cisgender youth which can be the product of being thrown out by parents/guardians that don’t support their coming out. When businesses don’t contribute to fostering a safe space for their employees, it can negatively impact both parties. Boissonnault said “…it’s as if 15% of your employees just don’t show up.” There is a lot to lose and a lot at stake for LGBTQ2 folks at this pivotal time. Boissonnault affirmed that he will not sit down and shut up.

His solo address ended with a story about a friend of his and her child. Asking about the rainbow flags that lined the streets, the child’s mother educated them about Pride and LGBTQ2 folks. When asked later to reiterate what they had learned about the Pride and the flag’s symbolism, their response was simple: “All the peoples”.

Helen Kennedy then took the stage to join Mr. Boissonnault in a fireside chat. She began by inquiring about his coming out story. After being embarrassed by a classmate who used a gay slur, he decided to come out, saying: “I never wanted anyone to have power over me again.” He returned home to live a life of authenticity.

When it came down to Boissonnault’s vision for LGBTQ2 policy in Canada, Kennedy had some questions. Specifically, about the inclusion of intersex people in the community and their rights. When speaking of the “I” missing from the acronym, Boissonnault said that the government was continuing to gather information about what should be included in the acronym and how it can be standardized everywhere. Kennedy pushed harder, insisting that intersex people should have certain protections extended to them in Canada. This would include freedom from surgeries that seek to “normalize” the genitalia of intersex people by removing parts that don’t prescribe to the norm. Boissonnault said that it would need to be looked at further to make a change, and that he is currently reaching out to different groups of people as well as the secretariat.

Funding of programs for LGBTQ2 people was next to be discussed, with Kennedy insisting that there was more the federal government could be doing to provide funds. Boissonnault explained that there are certain time and policy constraints that come with releasing funds to organizations. “Money can’t be let out without a program”, Boissonnault stated. Kennedy pointed out that all of Egale’s proposals that would require government funding had been churned back to her. Boissonnault countered, saying that it takes at least 9 months to even get a budget ready. He requested the patience of LGBTQ2 Canadians in the process.

Before heading to question period, Kennedy brought up the issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in LGBTQ2 relationships. Boissonnault agreed, saying that the government was trying to determine the best and most respectful way to gather data about queer experiences of GBV. Kennedy added that according to Stats Canada, assaults against LGBTQ2 people tend to be the most violent of all hate crimes. “Yet there are never any campaigns.” she said. This lead to a brief discussion about safety and security for LGBTQ2 community centres, where Kennedy insisted that the process is lengthy and difficult and ultimately can end in rejection. Boissonnault urged community centres to apply if they are qualified. They touched very quickly on the gay blood and sperm ban before opening the floor up to questions.

An audience member named Ron stood up, asking what advice should be given to city folks looking to aid rural members of the LGBTQ2 community. Boissonnault suggested the boosting of formal networks, as well as training and equipping allies with basic terminology.

Host Michael Bach took the stage once again, to thank Randy and Helen for a lively debate and discussion. “I never thought I would be at KPMG talking about intersex people 30 years [after I came out]…but this is how things change.” It is imperative to remember where we came from, and how we got here. As Rohan Sharma, an employee of KPMG, said earlier in the night: “We stand on the shoulders of giants.” The liberties and freedoms we know now were once just something to scoff at. And though we may have a long way to go, nothing is done without conversation, and nothing is done when we refuse to speak loud enough to be heard.

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If you’d like to know more about Canadian Club Toronto or our upcoming events, visit us at canadianclub.org. Find us on Twitter: @CdnClubTO, Instagram: @CdnClubTO or Facebook: Canadian Club Toronto.

Special thanks to Randy Boissonnault and Helen Kennedy for being guests of Canadian Club Toronto. Thanks extended to Michael Bach for hosting the event.

National Chief Perry Bellegarde and CBC’s Duncan McCue engaged in a fireside chat on the Canadian Club of Toronto stage this past Wednesday, March 24, 2017. On the docket? “Reconciliation: A Path to a Stronger Canada”.

CCT president Fred Mifflin began by addressing the elephant in the room: Canada’s 150th celebration isn’t necessarily a joyous occasion for all. Indigenous peoples in Canada have endured years of isolation and mistreatment on the land they rightfully own, as Chief Bellegarde reminds us during his time at the Canadian Club. This sesquicentennial is a time for the government and citizens to admit past wrongdoings and commit to a better tomorrow for Indigenous people, the men both agreed.

Bellegarde was then joined by McCue, who asked where the Chief thought Canada was in the reconciliation process. Bellegarde acknowledged that progress was being made, but not quickly enough. Reconciliation, in his mind, will come to fruition when ‘there is no more dead people in rivers, when the suicide rate for young Indigenous people is not 5-7 times the national average, when there is no longer 40,000 First Nations children in foster care, when the incarceration rate for Indigenous peoples is not abnormally high despite being only 4.5% of Canada’s population, and when Indigenous peoples are not shut off from the Canadian economy’, among other things. He pointed out that Canada is regarded as having the 6th highest ranking for quality of life in the world; when Indigenous peoples quality of life is put up against the same criteria, they rank 63rd. The road to possible, whole reconciliation? ‘The creation of partnerships/relationships, and admitting the truth.’, says Bellegarde.

McCue then mentioned a period in 1990 that has, what he regards as, a similar feeling to the present. Directly after the Oka Crisis, relations were considerably less tense and there seemed to be a heftier commitment to improving the relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Canadian government. McCue posed a question to Bellegarde: are we in a similar period now, that has the opportunity to see real, tangible change? Bellegarde responded: “Change is good.” With 94 calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and countless reports being written, Bellegarde is hopeful. He cautions, however, that reports are only helpful if implemented. He admitted that although he has no allegiance to a political party, the change of government from Conservative to Liberal did look to be a light at the end of the tunnel. His commitment now is to hold Prime Minister Trudeau and the MPs accountable.

McCue came back to the question of economic isolation, by quoting Bellegarde’s 2014 victory speech, where he said: “If our lands and resources are to be developed, it’ll be on our terms and timeline.” The exploitation and wrongful claiming of natural resources has resulted in Indigenous peoples being for the most part, unable to participate in the Canadian economy. Additionally, this misappropriation of resources means that there are no jobs and ultimately, no revenue sharing. Resource development to Bellegarde, means striking the correct balance between a healthy economy and sustainability.

Discussion about UNDRIP (United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples) and FPIC or free prior and informed consent lead us into the last portion of the event. FPIC is the principle that allows self-determination when it comes to the transformation of land. Essentially, FPIC gives Indigenous peoples the right to say “yes” or “no” when approached about land development. Bellegarde called for respectful dialogue with Indigenous peoples before anything is built, but also for an increase of senior decision making roles. When McCue asked about Bellegarde’s understanding of self-determination, Bellegarde was quick to make it clear that Indigenous peoples are not without their differences. The idea that every tribe, or that every person has the same feelings about any given issue is at best, silly, and at worst, dangerous. He pointed out that there are 634 First Nations Chiefs in Canada that represent 58 different tribes, and he was doing his best to represent the voices of all of these people at once.

When it comes to education, Bellegarde affirmed that he’s been lobbying the government with the help of other departments. On average, Indigenous students on reserve are receiving nearly half as much funding as kids that attend public schools off-reserve. Bellegarde said that while there is a large amount of money to be dealt with, the visions of Indigenous and Northern Affairs have to line up with that of the cabinet. He said that he is a firm believer that “there’s no better way out of poverty than education.” This entails but isn’t limited to on-reserve daycare, health benefits and combatting suicide in Indigenous communities.

Chief Bellegarde and Duncan McCue provided tremendous insight into how the Canadian government and its citizens can do better over the next 150 years. We have to be dedicated to making sure it doesn’t take that long. One of Bellegarde’s sentiments toward the end seemed to employ a reoccurring theme from the day: balance. He appealed to the Indigenous youth that may be watching the webcast, and implored them to find their version of balance. He encouraged them to find their feet in both worlds. To be open to new opportunities outside of their culture, but to never forget who they truly are. Balance will be the path to reconciliation, he affirmed.

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If you’d like to know more about the Canadian Club of Toronto or our upcoming events, visit us at canadianclub.org. Find us on Twitter: @CdnClubTO, Instagram: @CdnClubTO or Facebook: Canadian Club Toronto.

Special thanks to Chief Perry Bellegarde and Duncan McCue for being guests of the Canadian Club of Toronto. Thanks extended to President Fred Mifflin for hosting the event.

Introduced by Fred Mifflin as “the Warren Buffett of the North”, Prem Watsa took the Canadian Club of Toronto podium on May 18th, 2017. 

Watsa is the Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive of Fairfax Financial Holdings, a financial holding company that boasts $60 billion in assets, with a market cap of $14 billion. Immigrating to Canada nearly 44 years ago, he revealed that he came with no money, but with a love of education that sprouted with his father’s encouragement. Struggling to find a job after 18 months in Canada, he was afforded the opportunity to interview at Ivey Business School at University of Western Ontario. From there, he made 2 important contacts that urged him to forget everything he thought he knew about business; this would prove to work very well for Mr. Watsa.

After 10 years at a life insurance company, Watsa said he left to pursue a career that started with purchasing a company close to bankruptcy. At the age of 35 and with little experience, he used his contacts and personality to secure $3 million. He was then able to pay this loan back in 9 months.

On top of its tremendous financial success, Watsa was sure to emphasize Fairfax’s dedication to doing business with integrity. He was proud to say that in 31 years, Fairfax hasn’t had a single hostile acquisition (Fairfax’s name comes from “fair, friendly, acquistions”). To him, a thriving business looks like one that fosters a healthy, positive culture. This means focussing on outstanding customer service, looking after employees, and putting money back into the community. Fairfax’s guiding principles follow a similar line of thought: always think of the long term, always do the right thing, never accept success at the expense of their families, never compromise their integrity and always foster good relationships. Watsa asserted that business can be someone’s calling if they look after the needs of clients, employees and the community, and make a return for shareholders.

He shared that he felt his life was an entrepreneurial tale that has been repeated time and time in Canada, but one that he was “blessed mightily” for. He ended by thanking his wife and children, and attributing his successes to them and to God.

In the Q&A portion of the luncheon, President Donald Trump seemed to be a running theme. He praised Trump’s commitment to lowering corporate taxes, but admitted that the President was tough to predict. His advice to Trump? Get off Twitter and be quiet.

Prem Watsa was able to live out the “Canadian Dream” by living his life in all aspects with integrity, and being a “calculated risk-taker”, as said by Fred Mifflin. His unwavering commitment to keeping things friendly and familiar in a corporate environment has proved him to be a natural leader, and without a doubt, a legendary Canadian.

He closed his address to the Canadian Club with a quote from the Bible that he holds dear to his heart. Matthew 16:26 says: “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”

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If you’d like to know more about the Canadian Club of Toronto or our upcoming events, visit us at canadianclub.org. Find us on Twitter: @CdnClubTO, Instagram: @CdnClubTO or Facebook: Canadian Club Toronto.

Special thanks to Prem Watsa for being a guest of the Canadian Club of Toronto. Thanks extended to President Fred Mifflin for hosting the event.

Canadian Club Toronto was pleased to welcome the Honourable Mitzie Hunter, Ontario’s Minister of Education, this past Monday, May 8th, 2017.

Bright, warm and enthusiastic, Minister Hunter praised the Ontario education system and its students that have achieved excellence in reading, writing and numeracy. She also came bearing good news: Ontario’s graduation rate has now reached a historic high of 86.5%, going up an entire 14% since 2004. While these monumental achievements by our students are cause for celebration, Minister Hunter insisted that there’s still room for improvement. She announced that the Ontario government is in the process of rolling out a 3 part plan to build on student success and address student needs in the classroom.

The first part looks at strengthening the core competencies. Citing recent EQAO scores, Minister Hunter suggested that mathematics is an area that requires more attention inside and outside the classroom. The new plan will recommend that elementary students engage in one hour of math a day whilst making use of innovative new resources and free access to online tutoring help.

The second step, Minister Hunter said, will be a new and improved focus on curriculum assessment and teaching methods. This entails utilizing new technologies like 3D printers, and integrating skills like robotics and coding into everyday learning. The Minister also announced an initiative to give every student in Ontario access to 1 megabyte, emphasizing a need for reliable broadband connectivity in schools.

Thirdly, the government’s plan will look to increase the number and quality of opportunities that students have to explore different career avenues. The centre of this pillar is the Ontario government’s Careers Kickstart Strategy, which is a commitment to provide $190 million over the next 3 years to create 40,000 new jobs. There will also be a push for broader experiential learning opportunities and a focus on supporting students in the Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM) programs.

Minister Mitzie Hunter’s address to the Canadian Club was one was filled with pride, recognizing the impressive achievements of Ontario students and educators. But just as importantly, Minister Hunter’s voice was hopeful that these new commitments will facilitate even more future success for students.

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If you’d like to know more about the Canadian Club of Toronto or our upcoming events, visit us at canadianclub.org. Find us on Twitter: @CdnClubTO, Facebook: Canadian Club of Toronto, or Instagram: @CdnClubTO.

Special thanks to the Honourable Mitzie Hunter for being a guest of Canadian Club Toronto. Thanks extended to David Simmonds for hosting the event, and to Willa Black for thanking.