Robert Atwood is the Co-Founder and CEO of Hummingbird Drones and Nova Maps. As an entrepreneur and former firefighter, he has spent his career building tools and solutions designed to increase information access for firefighters, fire managers and decision-makers. He is passionate about the way new technologies can better inform decision-making, safety, and efficiency.

Hope Mikal started with a background in planning events and conferences and now channels her expertise in design thinking into powerful leadership at her creative marketing agency, Unicorn Marketing Co. Specializing in supporting women-led businesses, brands, and nonprofits, her agency is dedicated to building socially conscious brands and co-creating imaginative solutions through storytelling.

Dean Nelson is a travel expert specializing in LGBTQ Travel and is an LGBTQ activist. For the past 12 years, Nelson has produced the award-winning annual Whistler Pride and Ski Festival, co-founded Mr. Gay World in 2009, and founded the Pride House at the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

In 2018, his alma mater Thompson Rivers University bestowed one of the greatest honors of recognition the University can give to an individual for his contributions to LGBTQ tourism and leadership in LGBTQ visibility and awareness with a Doctor of Laws honoris causa. He was also recognized by the International Gay and Lesbian Tourism Association (IGLTA) with a Pioneer Award for his ongoing dedication and inspiration in linking LGBTQ Tourism and Sports.

In 2017, Travel Gay Canada recognized Nelson's dedication with the LGBT Tourism Leader of the Year Award. A Social Media contributor to #iLoveGay, brand ambassador for Whistler BC Canada (Tourism Whistler + Whistler Blackcomb), and a freelance travel writer, Nelson has visited over 100 countries and all seven continents, visiting various Pride events, conferences, tours, and destinations.

To get our minds right, we need to get our money right. Heather encourages businesses to adopt financial wellness programs to help employees improve their financial literacy. The payoff? Employees who are more motivated and focused, because if we’re financially well, we’re happier and healthier. Heather Coleman, Vice President of Operations at Enriched Academy, is a dynamic leader dedicated to fostering employee financial wellness.

Armed with a newly earned MBA, Heather specializes in integrating financial education into corporate cultures. Leading the Associations and Corporations division, she actively collaborates with Canadian companies, guiding them in establishing a robust culture of financial well-being among employees. Beyond her corporate expertise, Heather is a passionate ringette player, showcasing her commitment to both teamwork and athleticism.

An ardent Ottawa Senators fan, she brings the same level of enthusiasm to her professional pursuits as she does to cheering for her favorite team. Heather's multifaceted approach underscores her commitment to holistic well-being both in the workplace and on the ice.

Eric McAskill, MBA, PMP, is the Owner & Principal Director of Kalimaya Dive Resort in Sape, Indonesia. With extensive experience in tourism, hospitality, entrepreneurship, and management consulting, McAskill has founded multiple companies, including Kalimaya Dive Resort, EL Venture Management Consultancy and Eric McAskill Consulting Inc. He says, "bring on the challenge and adventure." Currently, he is embarking on an exciting new venture, renovating an abandoned house in the Japanese countryside, and sharing his journey through video updates on YouTube @EricJMcA.

Alfred Achoba is the Executive Director of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) – Kamloops Branch. A compassionate mental health advocate and community leader from Nigeria, Alfred holds a degree in Psychology from Thompson Rivers University. He has devoted his career to serving others and making a meaningful impact in his community. Alfred has held various positions within CMHA Kamloops, including Manager of Homelessness Services and Shelter Operations, and Acting Operations Leader. Since becoming Executive Director in 2019, his leadership has driven significant program and community growth. CMHA Kamloops has expanded its programs and services, reaching over 1300 unique individuals in Kamloops and hundreds more virtually across Canada.

Alfred’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, breaking down stigmas surrounding mental health, and promoting wellness is evident in every aspect of his work. He is also a devoted father of three, a travel enthusiast, and a soccer fan. Alfred shares his expertise by guest lecturing at Thompson Rivers University. His remarkable achievements and leadership skills make him a true asset to CMHA Kamloops and the broader community.

Jenny Money, BSc, GCIPH, MBA, is Syilx and Nlakapamux, residing on her ancestral territory in the Okanagan Valley. She began her educational journey at Thompson Rivers University, earning a Bachelor's degree in Health Science, and now holds an MBA in Indigenous Business Leadership from the Beedie School of Business at Simon Fraser University.

Jenny serves as the Executive Manager of Operations at En’owkin Centre and is a Director on the Board of Directors for the First Nations Health Authority. She is also a UBC Indigenous Cultural Safety Facilitator, a member of the UBC Faculty of Medicine Faculty Advisory Committee, and the Appointed Director to the Greater Westside Board of Trade. Additionally, she serves as an Economic Development Commissioner for Westbank First Nation and occupies several member seats on various committees.

Jenny is dedicated to advocating for Indigenous peoples, contributing her expertise in healthcare, team leadership, management, entrepreneurship, and non-profit operations.

Kevin Tillie is an accomplished volleyball player, renowned for his exceptional career on both the national and international stages. As a Wing Spiker, Kevin has represented France in two Olympic Games, securing a gold medal at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics and placing ninth at Rio 2016. He has also competed in multiple World Championships, with a notable fourth-place finish in 2014.

Kevin's impressive career is highlighted by several accolades, including being awarded the prestigious Knight of the Legion d'honneur, the highest French order of merit, in 2021. His athletic prowess was recognized early in his career, as he was named to the American Volleyball Coaches Association All-American first team twice (2012-2013) and the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation first team twice (2012-13). He was also the Canadian Interuniversity Sport Rookie of the Year in 2010 during his time at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, Canada.

Kevin's journey into volleyball began at age thirteen, influenced by his family's deep involvement in the sport. His father, Laurent Tillie, a former player and coach of the French national team, and his brother, Kim, who pursued basketball, both represented France at the Olympic Games. Kevin's love for volleyball grew as he played the sport every weekend with his siblings, eventually choosing volleyball over basketball to play alongside his friends.

Cecile Tucker is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Master of Arts in Counselling, who graduated from Thompson Rivers University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2015. As the supervisor of WellMind Counselling in Kamloops, Cecile specializes in helping individuals address and heal from past trauma and relationship difficulties through trauma-focused therapy. In addition to her clinical practice, Cecile has broadened her impact by using her TikTok platform to educate over 199,000 followers on counselling techniques and trauma healing, reaching a wide audience beyond traditional settings.