Venues – Magnet Network Live

October 23 & 24, 2024

Toronto’s historic Distillery District

Illuminarium

28 Gristmill Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 4R2, Canada

Get ready to be dazzled as we kick off Magnet Network Live 2024 at the mesmerizing Illuminarium, a cutting-edge venue renowned for its immersive experiences. This state-of-the-art space will host our opening plenary and keynote sessions, setting a tone where technology and creativity converge. As day turns to evening, this captivating venue will transform for our reception, creating a unique and unforgettable evening you won’t want to miss!

See on Map

Archeo

31 Trinity St, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4

Step into Archeo, a 19th-century heritage building where history meets modern innovation. Our unique activations—featuring debates, panel discussions, and live demonstrations—will unfold in this captivating space. Engage with thought-provoking content and enjoy interactive networking in a relaxed setting, complemented by food, beverages, and entertainment. Connect with like-minded individuals and dive deep into ideas in this charming venue!

See on Map

The Cooperage (a Thompson, Landry Gallery)

32 Distillery Lane & 6 Trinity Street, Toronto, Ontario M5A 3C4

Discover The Cooperage, a Thompson Landry gallery space blending rustic charm with modern style. This venue will host our activations, sparking innovation and collaboration. Engage with cutting-edge ideas and enjoy interactive discussions amid beautiful artwork, complemented by food, beverages, and entertainment. The Cooperage is where creativity and connection come to life.

See on Map

Arta

14 Distillery Lane, Toronto, Ontario M5A 3C4

Experience the charm of Arta Gallery, an intimate venue perfect for fostering deep conversations and innovative thinking. This distinctive space will host our activations, keynote discussions and engaging content. Contribute to cutting-edge ideas and interactive networking amidst inspiring artwork and a setting enriched with food, beverages, and entertainment. Arta Gallery is where creativity and meaningful connections flourish.

See on Map

Spirit of York

12 Trinity St., Toronto, Ontario M5A 3C4

Step into The Recharge Hub, your go-to oasis at MNL24. Need a moment to check emails? Looking for a refreshing smoothie or a tasty snack? Perhaps you want to catch up on meetings or tune in to live snippets from our MNL podcast? This open space is designed for you to recharge and stay connected. Relax, refuel, and stay in the loop—all while surrounded by the dynamic energy of our event. Don’t miss out on this perfect spot to pause and power up!

See on Map

Cluny Bistro & Boulangerie

35 Tank House Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4

Step into Cluny, a refined setting that effortlessly blends elegance with vibrancy. This exquisite space will host our larger group meetings, offering a sophisticated backdrop for engaging discussions and dynamic interactions. With its chic atmosphere and stylish décor, it promises a memorable experience for attendees. Whether you are part of a scheduled session or exploring spontaneous moments, Cluny will inspire and captivate. Join us in this distinctive venue where every conversation becomes an occasion.

See on Map

headshot of Dr. Mohamed Lachemi

Dr. Mohamed Lachemi

President & Vice-chancellor, TMU

Dr. Mohamed Lachemi is president and vice-chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University, first appointed in 2016 and reappointed for a second term ending in 2026. An internationally recognized researcher and civil engineering professor since 1998, he has held senior roles, including dean and provost. As president, Dr. Lachemi has elevated the university’s global stature, launched the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst, and secured approvals for innovative law and medical schools. A graduate of L’Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d’Oran and L’Université de Sherbrooke, he serves on multiple boards and was appointed to the Order of Ontario in 2022.

headshot of Robert Maguire

Robert Maguire

CEO, Altruistic

20+ years of experience as an investor in mission driven data and AI companies. His goal in life is to use the power of technological innovation to make a positive impact. Pioneering entrepreneur, investor, and visionary leader at the forefront of artificial intelligence and digital transformation. Robert’s career has been deeply intertwined with the rapid evolution of AI and disruptive technologies. He has successfully founded, developed, and scaled multiple AI-driven companies, with his first successful exit in this domain at the age of 18. Robert holds several algorithmic patents and has been instrumental in creating groundbreaking AI technologies. He has worked with a diverse range of organizations, including government agencies like NASA and NATO, sports franchises like PSG, Juventus, and the New York Mets, and renowned companies such as Ferrari, TetraPak, Aramco, and LVMH, helping them harness the power of AI.

headshot of Dr. Steven N. Liss

Dr. Steven N. Liss

Vice-President, Research and Innovation, TMU

Dr. Steven N. Liss is a professor of Chemistry and Biology. Returning to Ryerson in 2017 after leadership roles at the University of Guelph and Queen’s University, he has significantly advanced Ryerson’s research growth and partnerships. Awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 for his contributions to Canada’s research ecosystem, Dr. Liss has played a key role in establishing initiatives like the Rogers CyberSecure Catalyst, Future Skills Centre, and City Building Ryerson. His leadership continues to enhance Ryerson’s prominence in health, well-being, and digital infrastructure.

headshot of Surranna Sandy

Surranna Sandy

MBA, MA, ALM
Chief Executive Officer, Skills for Change

Surranna Sandy is the Chief Executive Officer of Skills for Change (SfC), a registered charity serving 20,000 immigrants, refugees, and individuals from underserved groups across Canada annually. In her role, she is committed to bridging the gap between potential and opportunities for Skills for Change’s clients. Recognizing the importance of collaborative efforts in this endeavour, she is committed to creating partnerships and fostering a supportive organizational culture that aligns with and amplifies this mission.

Subscribe to the MNL Newsletter

Add me to the MNL Waitlist

headshot of Doug Walker

Doug Walker

CEO, WhoPlusYou

Doug Walker is a veteran of the Canadian technology industry and a graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University. His career began at IBM, followed by leadership roles in SMEs and global enterprises. Doug served as President of Silicon Graphics (which acquired Cray Computing) and CEO of Alias Systems and BitTorrent. He co-founded WhoPlusYou with Joanne Rusnell (COO) and Al Lopez (CPO), joined by Ryerson graduate Jason Kirow (CTO). Doug’s connection to Ryerson, facilitated by Sheldon Levy and Mark Patterson of Magnet, highlights a unique private/public partnership aimed at helping communities grow through greater productivity and efficiency.

headshot of Danielle (Dane) Cadhit

Danielle (Dane) Cadhit

Director, Systems & Strategy

Danielle (Dane) Cadhit is a creative practitioner, futurist, and strategist passionate about systems design and transformation. She primarily impacts this space as the Director of Systems & Emergent Strategy at Coralus, a global community of changemakers working on initiatives, projects, and businesses practicing radical generosity in order to create a world that has humans thriving. Over the last decade, her experiences range from the areas of technology, finance, operations, grassroots organizing, and maker education. As a lifelong learner, Danielle enjoys deep conversations that connect seemingly disparate ideas and advances social purpose work from a multi-disciplinary, community-based, experimental lens.

headshot of Dr. Wendy Cukier

Dr. Wendy Cukier

Academic Director Diversity Institute

Wendy Cukier is a leading Canadian expert on disruptive technologies, innovation, and diversity, with over 200 published papers and coauthor of the bestseller Innovation Nation. As Director of the Diversity Institute, she drives evidence-based strategies for inclusion. During her tenure as Vice President, Research and Innovation at Toronto Metropolitan University, she increased external funding by over 60%, created the I-INC network, and positioned the university as Canada’s first Ashoka Changemaker Campus. Wendy also led significant advancements at the Ted Rogers School of Management and currently chairs the Board of Women’s College Hospital. She is a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the Governor General’s Meritorious Cross.

headshot of Paul Jenkins

Paul Jenkins

Former Senior Deputy Governor, Bank of Canada

Paul Jenkins served as Senior Deputy Governor of the Bank of Canada from April 2003 until his retirement in April 2010. In this capacity, he served as the Bank’s Chief Operating Officer and, along with the Governor, as a member of the Board of Directors of the Bank. Mr. Jenkins also served on Western University’s Board of Governors from 2010-2019, the last two years of which were spent as Board Chair, collaborating with the University’s President to help ensure proper stewardship and good governance at the University.

headshot of Chantal Brine

Chantal Brine

CEO, EnPoint

Originally from Bermuda, Chantal made Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada home #2 after graduating from Saint Mary’s University. In 2018, after reconnecting with her passion of helping others find careers that they love, Chantal started the journey to what would become EnPoint. Now she leads a team committed to helping organizations leverage mentorship as a tool to support their people’s career development. Working with post-secondary education institutions and nonprofits, Chantal is on a mission to help 1,000,000 people lead fulfilling careers.

headshot of The Hon. Bill Morneau

The Hon. Bill Morneau

Former Minister of Finance Canada

The Hon. Bill Morneau is the Chair of the Magnet Advisory Board. He served as Canada’s 39th Minister of Finance from 2015 to 2020, following a successful career building his family firm, LifeWorks (formerly Morneau Shepell) into the largest Canadian human resources services provider. As Canada’s former Minister of Finance, Mr. Morneau played the key role in the development and execution of economic policy, led the introduction of the Canadian approach to carbon pricing, and stewarded Canada’s economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

headshot of Jessica Hanan

Jessica Hanan

Lead AI Innovation Strategist,
Altruistic

Jessica is the founder of Prompt Pilot, a leading SaaS platform that uses an AI coach to help users become expert prompters. She holds a First Class Honors Degree in AI Business Strategy, Risk Management, and Economics. As an Innovation Strategist at Altruistic, she combines financial acumen with AI expertise to drive impactful initiatives. Jessica is a renowned prompt engineer and thought leader in AI and business strategy, contributing to research with NYU, Ferrari, and EY. Her extensive startup experience enables her to create collaborative ecosystems for groundbreaking AI

headshot of Dr. Marketa Evans

Dr. Marketa Evans

President and CEO, Colleges Ontario

Marketa began as President and CEO of Colleges Ontario in May 2023, representing Ontario’s 24 public colleges. She was previously Vice President at Colleges and Institutes Canada, overseeing federal relations and advocacy. Marketa also served as Vice President at WoodGreen Community Services, leading the Innovation Lab and integrated service models for labour market outcomes. Her background includes corporate banking with CIBC, Executive Director of the Munk School of Global Affairs, and roles with Plan International Canada and United Way Toronto. Marketa holds a PhD in International Relations from the University of Toronto and enjoys running, camping, hiking, and scuba diving.

headshot of Matt Small

Matt Small

President & CEO, Symplicity Corp

With more than 20 years of experience in higher education, Matt is deeply committed to partnering with the global higher education community to redefine student and institutional success by leveraging Symplicity’s smart, innovative technology. Since becoming President & CEO of Symplicity, he has expanded the company globally with products and acquisitions in Latin America, Canada, Europe, Australia, and the Middle East. Matt has a deep understanding of the EdTech market and an appreciation for how important the issue of employability has become domestically and abroad, along with the role technology can have to address the challenge.

headshot of Patrick Mackenzie

Patrick Mackenzie

CEO, the Immigrant Employment of Council
(IEC-BC)

Patrick MacKenzie is the CEO of the Immigrant Employment Council of BC. He has made a career of public service from coast to coast, working in policy and program areas aimed at supporting many of Canada’s most vulnerable communities through economic and social development as
well as international relations. Previously, Patrick spent 11 years working for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada at its national headquarters in Ottawa and its regional offices in Vancouver. Throughout his career, Patrick has worked with partners on matters
affecting indigenous and immigrant populations, including immigrant economic integration, provincial nominee programs, credential recognition and labour mobility.

headshot of Daniel Tisch

Daniel Tisch

President & CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

Daniel is a prominent business and public policy leader with extensive experience in government and the corporate sector. As the CEO and majority owner of Argyle Communications from 2003 to 2023, he grew the firm into Canada’s largest management-owned engagement and communications advisory firm. Daniel previously served as Senior Policy Advisor and Acting Chief of Staff to Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and represented Canada at the G7 Economic Summit. A global expert in corporate communications and crisis management, he lectures at Queen’s University and appears regularly in the media. Fluent in English, French, and Spanish, Daniel holds degrees from Queen’s University and is a certified corporate director.

headshot of Drew Lindsay

Drew Lindsay

Founder,
PathPilot

Drew Lindsay is a seasoned technology entrepreneur and talent strategist with over 20 years in high-tech recruitment. As Co-Founder of GuruLink Inc. and Founder of PathPilot.ai, Drew connects top talent with innovative companies and leverages AI to revolutionize career development. His expertise in talent acquisition, startup mentoring, and angel investing offers a unique perspective on work and technology. A Queen’s University graduate, Drew’s passion for AI and the future of work makes him a compelling speaker on AI’s transformative impact on careers and organizational structures.

headshot of Colin Ewart

Colin Ewart

President, BC Colleges

With 35 years of experience in the UK and Canada, Colin has led in education, recreation, telecommunications, government, and non-profits. As the founder of Polaris Leadership Inc., he previously held an executive role at a national charity, overseeing fundraising and partnerships, and helped secure over $250M in funding. Since 2015, Colin has been President of BC Colleges, focusing on partner relations and promoting colleges. He co-created a graduate program at Royal Roads University and has volunteered extensively. Colin enjoys cycling and squash, is married to Sarah, and has two daughters and two grandchildren.

headshot of Shamira Madhany

Shamira Madhany

Managing Director, Canada, and Deputy Executive Director, World Education Services

Shamira is Managing Director, Canada and Deputy Executive Director, World Education Services (WES). She joined WES in 2018 after more than two decades of public service. She has extensive experience working with licensing bodies, settlement agencies, and higher education and post-secondary sectors in Ontario. She served as the chief architect of several government programs that enable highly skilled immigrants to obtain employment in their fields. Shamira played a key role in the launch of WES Canada in 2000 during her tenure at the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration as Provincial Lead, Access to Professions and Trades.

headshot of Sasha Tregebov

Sasha Tregebov bio

Director,
The Behavioural Insights Team Canada

Sasha is the Director of BIT Canada. He works with organizations across Canada to improve policy, program, and service design by applying insights from behavioural science. Sasha specializes in behavioural insights for labour markets. He has worked with organizations including Magnet, the Future Skills Centre, ESDC, and Serco to bring a more human-centred and evidence-driven approach to supporting jobseekers, workers, and employers. He lives in Montreal with his partner Katie and their dog Lucy.

headshot of Tiffany Callender

Tiffany Callender

CEO and Co-Founder,
FACE COALITION

Tiffany is a committed advocate for the Black community’s prosperity in Canada. She co-founded the Federation of African Canadian Economics (FACE) in 2021, focusing on generational wealth creation. Tiffany co-developed the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund with the Canadian government, supporting Black entrepreneurs. Her decades-long dedication to community development and social entrepreneurship has earned her several accolades, including the RBC’s Ones to Watch award, MIPAD recognition, and the BBPA Harry Jerome Chairman’s Award. Tiffany’s initiatives exemplify her passion for driving change and economic empowerment within Canada’s Black community. She is also a member of the Forbes Business Council.

headshot of Dr.Curtis Clarke

Dr.Curtis Clarke

Co-Founder,
Propero

Dr. Clarke has served in Alberta Public Service roles, including Deputy Minister of Advanced Education, K-12 Education, and Solicitor General. He was also Assistant Deputy Minister of Alberta Correctional Services and Cabinet Policy Coordinator. He represented Canada on the OECD Education Policy Committee Bureau. Dr. Clarke’s board experience includes Director at the Canadian Centre for Substance Use and Addictions, Mentor Canada, Canadian Association of Police Educators, National Police Sector Council, and INTERPOL Group of Experts in Training. He holds a BA and MA in Sociology from Queen’s University and a PhD from York University, with executive programs from Harvard, Stanford, and Cornell.

headshot of Scott MacDonald

Scott MacDonald

Co-Founder,
Propero

Scott is a senior executive with 30+ years in education and public policy. He began as a teacher in Vancouver and was Deputy Minister of Education for British Columbia, managing 650,000 students and an $8 billion budget. He also served as Assistant Deputy Minister for Economic Development and CEO of Pacific Carbon Trust. Currently, Scott co-founded Propero Learning Systems Inc., focusing on skills development and innovative solutions. He holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and an MBA from Royal Roads University. Scott resides in Victoria, BC.

headshot of Scott Stirrett

Scott Stirrett

CEO/Founder
Venture for Canada

Scott is the Founder and CEO of Venture for Canada (VFC), a national charity that fosters entrepreneurial skills and mindsets in young Canadians. VFC’s programs recruit, train, and support young Canadians to work at Canadian small and medium sized businesses (SMEs). In 2023, VFC supported approximately 4,200 work-integrated-learning experiences for young people at 1,000 Canadian SMEs.
Scott has been recognized as a 2019 Young Impact Leader by Future of Good, a 2022 Changemaker by The Globe and Mail, a 2022-2023 Action Canada Fellow by The Public Policy Forum, a 2023 Emerging Leader by The Peak, and an Ashoka Fellow.

headshot of Darian Kovacs

Darian Kovacs

Founding Partner
Jelly Academy

Darian is the Métis founder of Jelly Digital Marketing & PR and Jelly Academy, based in Vancouver. He hosts the Marketing News Canada podcast, chairs the Digital Marketing Sector Council, and sits on the board of NPower Canada. His book, Marketing Mentors, features interviews with Seth Godin, Guy Kawasaki, and marketing leads from LEGO, Lululemon, and Starbucks. Darian lives in Fort Langley, BC, with his wife and four children. He enjoys mountain biking, swimming, growing dahlias, watercolor painting, and reading YA novels.

headshot of Rob Henderson

Rob Henderson

President & CEO, BioTalent

Rob is President and CEO of BioTalent Canada. Rob has expanded BioTalent Canada’s partnerships throughout Canada with industry-leading organizations such as STEMCELL Technologies, adMare BioInnovations, Innovative Medicines Canada, and Sanofi Canada, among others. Under Rob’s guidance, BioTalent Canada has engaged with governments, employers, associations, post-secondary institutions, immigrant serving agencies, and service providers. Together, this dynamic network strengthens skills, connects job-ready talent to industry, and creates opportunities. With the help of several prominent board members, Rob has transformed BioTalent Canada into an in-demand partner, policy influencer, and project leader that brings together the largest national bio-economy network in Canada.

headshot of Anna Triandafyllidou

Anna Triandafyllidou

Canada Excellence Research Chair in Migration and Integration, TMU

Anna holds the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Migration and Integration, at Toronto Metropolitan University. She is also the Scientific Director of a $98.4 mln multi-University and multi-partner Program entitled Bridging Divides funded by the Canada First Research Excellence Fund. Prior to joining TMU in 2019, she held a Robert Schuman Chair at the European University Institute, in Florence, Italy. She is Editor of the Journal of Immigrant and Refugee Studies. In 2021, the University of Liège awarded Triandafyllidou a doctorate honoris causa in recognition of her contribution to migration scholarship. She has published widely on migration governance and migrant integration.

headshot of Jeff Melanson

Jeff Melanson

Partner, Advisor and Entrepeneur
Unity Technologies

Renowned for his inventive approach to tackling disruptive innovation with bold strategy and practical vision, celebrated globally for his creative entrepreneurship in leadership. He excels in uncovering hidden talent and opportunities within organizations, from unconventional growth strategies to tapping into overlooked business potentials. Currently serving as Strategic Partner at Unity Technologies, Partner at The Stratagem Group, and Advisor at Lansberg Gersick Advisors, Jeff has held notable roles including President and CEO of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and President of The Banff Centre. With an MBA from Wilfrid Laurier University, Jeff is a prominent strategist and lecturer on disruptive innovation, creative economies, and city building worldwide, also contributing as a columnist for HuffPost. His accolades include being named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 and receiving the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal recipient.

headshot of Randi Radul

Randi Radul

Executive | Team Coach Partner, Lumina Learning Canada USA

For 14 years, Randi has been an Executive and Team Coach, drawing on her background as a Certified Management Accountant and senior leader in the pharmaceutical and forest products manufacturing sectors. Her expertise in Executive and Systems Coaching empowers leaders and teams to maximize their potential through tailored Life, Leadership, and Relationship strategies. Recently, Randi became the Lead at Lumina Learning Canada USA, where she serves as a Global Partner and Master Facilitator. She focuses on expanding Lumina Learning’s impact by supporting practitioners and enterprise clients in transforming organizations, celebrating people one human at a time.

headshot of Leslie Woo

Leslie Woo

CEO, CivicAction

Leslie Woo, CRE® is a distinguished city leader with over 25 years of expertise in sustainable community building and urban development in the Greater Toronto Area. As CEO of CivicAction since 2020, she drives coalitions for transformative civic engagement. Leslie has held key roles in public and private sectors, including Chief Planning Officer at Metrolinx and Chief Development Officer at Infrastructure Ontario. She has significantly influenced the revitalization of Toronto’s waterfront and serves on various boards, including Waterfront Toronto. Leslie is also a Senior Fellow at the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy.

headshot of Jean-Pierre (JP) Giroux

Jean-Pierre (JP) Giroux

President,
Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC)

For more than two decades, JP has held positions of increasing responsibility with economic development, NGO, management consulting, industrial and corporate organizations throughout Canada.

headshot of Jamie Savage

Jamie Savages

Interim CEO, and Founder
Startup Canada, The Leadership Agency

Jamie Savage is the Interim CEO of Startup Canada and is also the Founder of The Leadership Agency, the executive recruitment partner of choice for North America’s fastest-growing startups and non-profits. Under Jamie’s leadership, The Leadership Agency has seen impressive growth, expanding into the US within just 18 months. The firm has garnered multiple accolades, including Best Service Provider 2019 (HRD Canada), Best Professional Services 2020 (CanadianSME Business Magazine), and Best Workplaces for Startups 2023 (Great Place to Work). A trailblazer in the HR and recruitment industry, Jamie shares her expertise through contributions to The Globe and Mail, CBC, Inc., and HRD Magazine.

headshot of Krista Pawley

Krista Pawley

Co-Founder, Wavemakers

Krista Pawley is a tri-sector leader who connects people and organizations across 56+ countries to catalyze sustainable, inclusive impact. She co-founded Wavemakers, the first national Work-Integrated Learning program using Virtual Reality, and founded Imperative Impact. Krista also co-chairs EXCITE, Canada’s digital trust community, and serves on the board of Equitas. As a BMW Foundation Responsible Leader and member of the Simpson Centre’s Loomis Innovation Council, she influences policy and innovation. Krista’s work, whether as a leader, partner, or mom, is driven by a commitment to shaping an inclusive, sustainable, and innovative future.