BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//CQCC: Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:CQCC: Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://queerchamber.ca X-WR-CALDESC:Events for CQCC: Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Toronto BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251101T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260331T170000 DTSTAMP:20260513T122312 CREATED:20251101T181142Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T142352Z UID:10002206-1761984000-1774976400@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:CQCC 2025-2026 Trade Mission Series DESCRIPTION:Expand your business horizons with CQCC’s upcoming Trade Missions! \n\n\n\nCQCC’s Global Program is excited to announce a series of domestic and international Trade Missions running now through March 2026\, to key markets including: Toronto (completed!)\, Japan/Taiwan\, France\, and Brazil/Colombia. \n\n\n\nNOTE: CQCC is monitoring the unfolding situation in Venezuela alongside our international affiliates in the region\, and will communicate directly with interested parties and confirmed delegates should any details around the trade missions\, particularly those to Brazil and Colombia\, change.  \n\n\n\nThese missions are designed to open doors and spark connections through curated B2B matchmaking\, market briefings\, trade fair-style showcases\, conferences\, and high-value networking with SMEs and corporate buyers. \n\n\n\nYou don’t need to be a certified supplier to participate! This initiative is specifically aimed at promoting LGBTQ+ and SME businesses and entrepreneurs—even those new to CQCC. All 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs and other diverse-owned organizations are encouraged to submit an application\, including those with minority LGBTQ+ ownership. \n\n\n\nWe’re aiming to build broad networks and engage corporate partners overseas. Exact dates and locations will be confirmed directly with accepted participants. \n\n\n\n\nPre-register here!\n\n\n\n\nWhat to Expect:\n\n\n\nDelegates will gain access to a curated mix of: \n\n\n\n\nB2B matchmaking with SMEs and corporate buyers\n\n\n\nMarket briefings and trade fair-style showcases\n\n\n\nConferences and high-value networking opportunities\n\n\n\n\nFinancial Support Available:\n\n\n\nEligible participants may qualify for up to 50% reimbursement\, covering: \n\n\n\n\nEconomy roundtrip airfare\n\n\n\nPer diem towards meals and accommodation (roughly $250 per day)\n\n\n\nReduced registration costs/Promo rates for hotel and airfare as available\n\n\n\nParticipants can join multiple Trade Missions: please only apply to missions you are able to join if accepted.\n\n\n\n\nImportant Details:\n\n\n\n\nParticipants can join multiple Trade Missions—apply only for those you can attend if accepted.\n\n\n\nCompleting the pre-registration form does not guarantee participation. Final delegation will be determined by CQCC in consultation with partners.\n\n\n\nCQCC continues to monitor the unfolding situation in Venezuela alongside our international affiliate partners in the region. We will communicate directly with interested parties and confirmed delegates should any details for upcoming trade missions change as a result. \n\n\n\n\nRegister today! URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/cqcc-trade-mission-series/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/11/2025-2026-New-Trade-Missions-Banner-no-HFX.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251107T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251107T140000 DTSTAMP:20260513T122312 CREATED:20251103T202850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251104T153143Z UID:10002198-1762520400-1762524000@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:Federal Budget 2025: What It Means for Queer Entrepreneurs and Allies DESCRIPTION:Join us for an in-depth conversation with Darrell Schuurman\, CQCC CEO\, and Randy Boissonnault\, member of CQCC’s Government Relations Committee\, to unpack the latest federal budget and explore its impact on: \n\n\n\n\nThe Canadian economy\n\n\n\nEntrepreneurs and small/medium business owners\n\n\n\nThe 2SLGBTQI+ community\n\n\n\nBroader WAGE and EDI commitments\n\n\n\n\nThis is a timely opportunity to understand how new measures and funding commitments will shape Canada’s economic landscape and advance equity and safety for queer communities. This dynamic discussion will also followed by an audience Q&A period. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNovember 7\, 2025 | 1:00 PM ET (Pre-registration required) \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegister here!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKey Topics:\n\n\n\n\nInclusive Economic GrowthRenewal (or not) of the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program\, plus other budgeted programs and initiatives like Build Canada / Buy Canadian strategies that create opportunities for queer entrepreneurs to scale and compete.\n\n\n\nEntrepreneurship & Access to CapitalMeasures expected to impact small businesses broadly\, including initiatives that affect workforce growth\, innovation\, and Canadian affordability.\n\n\n\nTax & Business IncentivesUpdates on incentives and policies designed to support business owners and entrepreneurs.\n\n\n\nEquity & Safety CommitmentsNew funding commitments to advance equality and safety for 2SLGBTQI+ communities\, including highlights from the recent WAGE announcement.\n\n\n\n\nWhy Attend?\n\n\n\nUnderstanding how policy decisions shape real opportunities for businesses and communities is essential for growth. Whether you’re already a CQCC member or considering joining\, this conversation will equip you with insights to help guide your next steps and future success. URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/federal-budget-2025-conversation/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/11/Federal-Budget-2025-with-Darrell-and-Randy.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251112T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251112T210000 DTSTAMP:20260513T122313 CREATED:20250619T215227Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T183312Z UID:10002176-1762966800-1762981200@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:“Making a Life\, Making a Living” Rainbow Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (REKH) Conference DESCRIPTION:Join us for the 2025 REKH Conference — a national gathering dedicated to advancing equity\, connection\, and opportunity for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs across Canada. \n\n\n\nTaking place in Edmonton\, Alberta\, from November 12 to 15\, the conference will bring together community voices\, thought leaders\, and changemakers to explore the realities of 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurship and co-create resources\, programs\, and pathways that reflect real needs and shared goals. \n\n\n\nWe hope to see you there! \n\n\n\nFull schedule: \n\n\n\n\nNovember 12: 5 PM – 9 PM\n\n\n\nNovember 13: 9 AM – 4:30 PM\n\n\n\nNovember 14: 9 AM – 1 PM URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/rainbow-entrepreneurship-knowledge-hub-rekh-conference/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/KH-Save-the-Date-ENG.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251113T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251113T150000 DTSTAMP:20260513T122313 CREATED:20251008T191900Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T193018Z UID:10002194-1763042400-1763046000@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:The Sales Lab: Ethical and Effective AI in your Business DESCRIPTION:You’ve heard the phrase\, adapt or die and we don’t want to be dramatic\, but the same holds true in business. Love it or hate it\, AI is here\, and the businesses that don’t adapt will quickly become irrelevant and die. Yikes! \n\n\n\nJoin this group discussion hosted by Lindsay Johnson\, aka The Radical Connector\, and let’s… \n\n\n\n\nExplore the ethical side of incorporating AI into your business\n\n\n\nYour own AI SWOT analysis to make sure your business doesn’t become obsolete\n\n\n\nHow to use AI in both the operations and customer delivery ends of your business\n\n\n\nShare your concerns\, ideas\, and how you’re currently exploring AI in your business \n\n\n\n\nBonus: We’ll send out a spreadsheet with everyone’s contact info and who y’all want to meet so you can stay in touch and explore collaboration and referral partnerships together! URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/the-sales-lab-ethical-and-effective-ai-in-your-business/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/sales-lab-november-session.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251114T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251114T233000 DTSTAMP:20260513T122313 CREATED:20250624T174830Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T163250Z UID:10002177-1763143200-1763163000@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:CQCC's 10th Annual Black & White Gala DESCRIPTION:A Decade of Celebration: Join us for the 10th Anniversary Black & White Gala on November 14\, 2025\, at The Carlu in Toronto!\n\n\n\nThis milestone evening will bring together the 2SLGBTQI+ business community for a night of celebration\, entertainment\, and connections. Come celebrate 10 years of the Black & White Gala as we honour achievements\, share inspiring stories\, and mark this special anniversary together.  \n\n\n\nWe can’t wait to celebrate this milestone with you in style! \n\n\n\nGet your ticket today! Standard rate tickets available until November 7.\n\n\n\n\nGet your tickets!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAt the heart of the Gala are the CQCC Business Leadership Awards\, recognizing outstanding leaders driving inclusion and innovation.  \n\n\n\nThese awards hold great significance as they celebrate outstanding individuals and companies who have played a special role in driving economic growth within the 2SLGBTQI+ community in Canada. They honour those who have created positive change and fostered a thriving business environment. \n\n\n\n\nDiscover the finalists\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe gala will take place on the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit\, the Anishnabeg\, the Chippewa\, the Haudenosaunee\, and the Wendat peoples\, and is home to many diverse First Nations\, Inuit\, and Métis peoples.  \n\n\n\nFor general Gala inquiries\, please send an email to events@queerchamber.ca. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBecome a Sponsor!\n\n\n\n\n\nCelebrate 10 years of the Black & White Gala by positioning your brand at the centre of this milestone event. As a sponsor\, you’ll connect with industry leaders\, gain visibility with the 2SLGBTQI+ business community\, and be part of an unforgettable evening.  \n\n\n\n> Access the Sponsorship Deck \n\n\n\nDon’t miss the chance to mark this special anniversary with us—become a sponsor today!  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nInterested in Gala sponsorship opportunities? Reach out to Sabrina Uwase\, our Manager of Corporate Engagement. \n\n\n\n\nEmail Sabrina\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn Stage – Meet the stars of this year’s entertainment lineup!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n Tafari Anthony\n \n \n \n \n Tafari Anthony (pronounced tah-far-eye) is a JUNO-nominated Pop singer-songwriter\, producer\, and performer based in Toronto.rnrnKnown for his soaring vocals\, dynamic emotional range\, and genre-blurring sound\, Tafari creates music that puts queer love\, identity and emotional honesty at the forefront. A respected collaborator\, Tafari has written and produced for artists such as Tanika Charles\, Priyanka\, Katya\, Samantha Martin u0026amp; Delta Sugar\, BLUE WILL\, and Nuela Charles among others. His solo work includes three celebrated EPs — Die for You (2016)\, Remember When (2017)\, and The Way You See Me (2020) — the latter earning a Juno nomination for Adult Contemporary Album of the Year in 2022. His debut full-length album When I Met Your Girlfriend (2023) received praise for its unapologetic storytelling and bold sonic palette. Tafari’s music has been featured in PAPER Magazine\, Billboard\, and on CBC’s list of 100 Essential Songs. His songs have also been placed in film and TV including\, Kim’s Convince\, Pretty Hard Cases\, Erin’s Guide To Kissing Girls\, u0026amp; more.rnrnHe also contributed to the all-star charity single “What I Wouldn’t Do” supporting youth mental health and the pride charity single u0022This Little Lightu0022 which featured queer artists from across Canada in support of The 519. \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n Queer Toronto Tarot\n \n \n \n \n Queer Toronto Tarot was founded by Hanlon Uafás-Álainn who has been reading professionally since 2007. Queer Toronto Tarot has now expanded from Toronto to Nova Scotia\, and continues to provide readings in-person and online or over the phone for people who are queer\, straight\, trans- or cis-gender wherever they may be in Canada or worldwide.rnrnEach of our readers has their own personal style and practice\, while we all focus on using the tarot (and other approaches) to increase clarity and spiritual empowerment. QTTarot.com \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n Naach For Fun\n \n \n \n \n Established in 2019\, Naach For Fun is a dance organization that believes in community-building through the power of dance. From curating Wedding Choreography\, to organizing Live Workshops at a city near you! From Group Workshops to Private ones\, from learning new styles to improving your current ones\, they do it all!rnrnTheir dancers have brought their popular Bollywood Reimagined routine\, where they bring positive Queer South Asian representation through popular Bollywood songs\, to several local Pride Festivals including Mississauga Pride\, Peel Pride\, Serving with Pride (Peel Police)\, and the the 2023 CQCC Black and White Gala. \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n DJ Donovan\n \n \n \n \n DJ Donovan’s journey started off at a very young age of 15\, not believing that the journey would have taken him to where he is today. He takes pride in himself\, by being professional and approachable\, while aiming to please.rnrnDJ Donovan has played school dances\, weddings\, birthday parties\, wrap parties\, social events\, community events\, corporate parties\, and prominent events like Black Diamond Ball TO\, TIFF\, The Vanguard\, Pride Toronto and is currently the resident DJ at Friday Harbour Resort.rnrnThe style of music he plays ranges from\, but is not limited to: Old school\, Dance (EDM)\, Reggae\, Soca\, Afro\, Latin\, Brazilian\, Pop\, Classic Rock\, Ru0026amp;B/Hip Hop\, and Funk. DJ Donovan sees himself as a conductor of the dancefloor. \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n Gay Jesus\n \n \n \n \n Gay Jesus is an internationally performing drag king serving Latine wine and non-binary bread.rnrnHe’s the 2019 Fierce! Festival Producer’s Choice Feature\, was a featured performer for Canada Pride ’22 and debuted in 2024 at the Toronto Burlesque Festival and as a Featured Artist at the Austin International Drag Festival. Most recently\, he was added to CBC Art’s Super Queeroes list and announced as a Featured Performer for the 2025 Toronto Burlesque Festival. \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSuggested Attire\n\n\n\nEvening attire is recommended\, but comfort comes first. Feel free to dress in a way that reflects your style — whether classic\, colourful\, or something that makes you shine.  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAccommodation for Gala Attendees\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re attending the CQCC Gala and need accommodations\, we recommend booking your stay at the Chelsea Toronto for convenience and proximity to the event. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBook now!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSafety & Accessibility\n\n\n\nCQCC is dedicated to maintaining inclusive and accessible spaces for everyone. During our events\, all participants are required to treat each other with dignity\, fairness\, and respect. \n\n\n\nAny harassment and discrimination\, including\, but not limited to\, that based on race\, ethnicity\, sexual orientation\, gender\, gender identity\, religious affiliation\, age\, or disability is not permitted under any circumstance. CQCC reserves the right to take immediate action\, including removing the responsible participant from the event\, as well as issuing a permanent ban from any future CQCC events. \n\n\n\nIf you witness or experience any form of discrimination or harassment at the GALA\, please reach out to the event organizer. \n\n\n\n\nClick here for Gala’s Code of Conduct\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThank you to our Sponsors!\n\n\n\n\n\nAirline Sponsor \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAward Sponsors \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGold Sponsor \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSilver Sponsor \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFriend Sponsors \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAudio / Visual Sponsor \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nClosed Captioning Sponsor URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/10th-annual-black-white-gala/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/2025-Gala-Banner-2160-x-1080-px.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251117T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251121T170000 DTSTAMP:20260513T122313 CREATED:20250827T024738Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251104T190235Z UID:10002190-1763366400-1763744400@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:CQCC Trade Mission to Mexico City  DESCRIPTION:Business for Inclusion – SME Edition\n\n\n\n Reforma Avenue\, Mexico City \n\n\n\nAbout the Mission\n\n\n\nAs part of CQCC’s 2025 Global Program\, delegates will take part in the “Business for Inclusion – SME Edition”\, hosted by our global affiliate Compro Diverso in Mexico City. \n\n\n\nThis high-impact event will bring together Canadian SMEs\, Mexican SMEs\, and leading Mexican corporations for a full day of business matchmaking\, networking\, and knowledge sharing. \n\n\n\nJoin us in Mexico City for a week of networking\, learning\, and business growth—while advancing supplier diversity and Canada–Mexico business ties. \n\n\n\n\nRegister now!\n\n\n\n\nWhy Participate?\n\n\n\n\nOpen new markets: Create tangible opportunities for Canadian SMEs in Mexico\, one of Latin America’s most dynamic economies. \n\n\n\nLearn how to do business in Mexico: Gain practical insights through conferences on trade\, culture\, and market entry strategies. \n\n\n\nNetwork with decision-makers: Connect with corporate leaders\, SMEs\, and government representatives. \n\n\n\nEmbassy engagement: Proposed session with the Embassy of Canada in Mexico to build future collaborations. \n\n\n\nGlobal visibility: Position your business within Canada’s international 2SLGBTQI+ trade network and support inclusive economic growth. \n\n\n\n\nProgram Highlights \n\n\n\n\nBusiness matchmaking between Canadian and Mexican SMEs + corporates \n\n\n\nTrade fair and networking sessions \n\n\n\nConferences on “How to Do Business in Mexico” \n\n\n\nEngagement with the Embassy of Canada in Mexico \n\n\n\n\nCosts & Funding Support \n\n\n\nEligible participants may qualify for 50% reimbursement through CanExport for:  \n\n\n\n\nRoundtrip economy airfare \n\n\n\nDaily per diem covering meals & accommodation  URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/trade-mission-to-mexico-city/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/08/CQCC-Banners-for-Global-Post-2025-TM-Mexico-City.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251119T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251119T150000 DTSTAMP:20260513T122313 CREATED:20251015T192521Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251104T192651Z UID:10002195-1763560800-1763564400@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:Webinar Wednesday: "No\, I don't want to move to Toronto": What People Get Wrong about Entrepreneurship in Small Places DESCRIPTION:Ivy + Dean Consulting is a company that was founded in small cities that are often overlooked: Regina and Yellowknife. As they’ve grown the business\, Jacq and Risa have both regularly been asked variations of the question: ‘When will i+d open an office in Toronto?’ These questions usually come from people who have never lived outside of a metropolitan area. Join both Jacq and Risa as they share their stories as entrepreneurs and their core business ethos of staying (and nailing it!) right here at home.  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n Our Team \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jacq Brasseur (they/them) \n\n \n CEO & Principal Consultant \n \n \n \n Ivy + Dean Consulting \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Jacq Brasseur (they/them) \n\n \n CEO & Principal Consultant \n \n \n \n Ivy + Dean Consulting \n \n \n Originally from Yellowknife\, Jacq has over a decade of experience leading teams as a queer and non-binary professional. They co-founded what is now known as the Northern Mosaic Network\, the only 2SLGBTQ+ human service agency in the Northwest Territories\, and proudly served as the agency’s first Executive Director. Since then\, they have led various queer and trans agencies as either an Executive Director or Board Member\, including NWT Pride\, UR Pride Centre for Sexuality & Gender Diversity\, Fierté Canada Pride\, TransSask Support Services\, and The Enchanté Network. Currently\, Jacq volunteers their time as the Chair of the Saskatchewan Queer Entrepreneurs & Professionals\, an organization they co-founded. In 2021\, Jacq established Ivy + Dean Consulting\, a bilingual jacq -of-all-trades consulting firm designed to empower non-profit leadership to solve the unique problems faced by organizations in the Prairies and Northern Canada. They are the Chief Executive Officer + Principal Consultant\, which allows them to wear many “hats” to serve clients and lead the team. When Jacq isn’t busy working or volunteering\, you can find them drinking too much Diet Pepsi\, playing the most recent Zelda video game\, and spending time with their family. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Risa Payant (she/her) \n\n \n Chief Operations Officer & Principal Consultant \n \n \n \n Ivy + Dean Consulting \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Risa Payant (she/her) \n\n \n Chief Operations Officer & Principal Consultant \n \n \n \n Ivy + Dean Consulting \n \n \n Born and raised in rural Saskatchewan\, Risa is passionate about increasing capacity for oft-overlooked and misunderstood communities across Canada. Risa came to Ivy + Dean Consulting in 2023 with nearly three decades’ experience in the non-profit arts and cultural sector\, 15 years of which saw her in senior leadership roles. Risa contributed to Saskatchewan’s vibrant arts scene through positions at SK Arts\, the Regina Folk Festival\, and the MacKenzie Art Gallery. From 2015 to 2022\, she served as Executive Director of Common Weal Community Arts\, a provincial organization dedicated to socially-engaged practice. In her last role before moving into the for-profit world\, Risa led Planned Parenthood Regina through a period of crisis. Risa is Ivy + Dean Consulting’s Chief Operations Officer + Principal Consultant\, a position that allows her to get nerdy about infrastructure development and building frameworks to ensure the business thrives. When she’s not working\, Risa is a travel-loving\, adventure-seeking bibliophile who finds joy in live music\, bold colours\, and the expansive prairie landscape. She lives in Regina’s Heritage neighbourhood with her wife and teenage daughters. URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/webinar-wednesday-no-i-dont-want-to-move-to-toronto-what-people-get-wrong-about-entrepreneurship-in-small-places/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/CQCC-WW-November.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR