BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//CQCC: Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH 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:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Halifax BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0300 TZNAME:ADT DTSTART:20250309T060000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0300 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:AST DTSTART:20251102T050000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0300 TZNAME:ADT DTSTART:20260308T060000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0300 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:AST DTSTART:20261101T050000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0300 TZNAME:ADT DTSTART:20270314T060000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0300 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:AST DTSTART:20271107T050000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251101T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260331T170000 DTSTAMP:20260513T103803 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:20260219T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260219T140000 DTSTAMP:20260513T103803 CREATED:20251015T201842Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T154016Z UID:10002196-1771506000-1771509600@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:2026 EY/CQCC Pitch Competition DESCRIPTION:Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce\, in collaboration with EY\, invites CQCC’s certified suppliers and OUT for Business entrepreneurs to participate in the 2026 Virtual EY Pitch Series. This series comprises three Pitch Sessions throughout the year\, offering selected participants the opportunity to present their pitches to a panel of judges within a 10-minute timeframe. Judges will provide constructive feedback and tips to help entrepreneurs enhance their selling techniques to corporate buyers. \n\n\n\nThe pitch competition is only for CQCC’s certified suppliers and OUT for Business Entrepreneurs. For a more robust understanding of what the EY Pitch Competition will entail\, join us for an Info Session on February 19th\, 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET . This is a great opportunity to gain knowledge about the application process and what to expect at this year’s competition. This webinar will go over details of the pitch competition\, you will get to meet past participants and will end with a Q&A. \n\n\n\nFormat of the 2026 EY Virtual Pitch Series: \n\n\n\n\nEach round will feature at least three participants.\n\n\n\nThe order of presenters will be randomly selected before the presentations.\n\n\n\nPresentations are limited to two individuals from each participating company.\n\n\n\nEach participant will deliver a ten-minute presentation focusing on their service and value proposition.\n\n\n\nA two-minute warning will be given\, and presentations must conclude after ten minutes.\n\n\n\nPresenters must use visual presentations. (PowerPoint\, slides\, Canva\, Figma\, etc.)\n\n\n\n\nPrizes:Winners of each round will be paired with mentors to prepare for the Finale in May. \n\n\n\n\nBest Pitch: Full scholarship to the Supplier Diversity Professional Excellence\, Tuck Executive Education at Dartmouth (approximate value: $4\,000USD).\n\n\n\nRunner Up: To be announced.\n\n\n\nThird Place: To be announced.\n\n\n\n\nDates (Subject to change): \n\n\n\n\nMARCH 26 | 1-3 PM ET\n\n\n\nAPRIL 16 | 1-3 PM ET\n\n\n\nMAY 7 | 1-3 PM ET\n\n\n\nFINALE in June. Dates to be announced.\n\n\n\n\nYou will receive a calendar invite for your slot upon registration if you get in! Participants are selected on first come\, first served basis. \n\n\n\nMentorship:After the last pitch session on May 7th\, each finalist will be paired with a mentor from EY\, who will receive up to four hours of one-to-one mentoring to perfect their pitch. \n\n\n\nJudging:EY will secure a minimum of 5 judges for each session and the Finale. Candidates will be assessed on a scale of 1-5 for the following criteria: \n\n\n\n\nPresentation materials\n\n\n\nVerbal communications\n\n\n\nNon-verbal communications\n\n\n\nUse of time\n\n\n\nCommunication of core service(s)\n\n\n\nValue proposition\n\n\n\n\nEY is committed to maintaining a diverse supplier base and building relationships with suppliers that reflect the market\, clients and communities they serve. EY seeks to actively identify\, develop\, and do business with diverse suppliers as an integral component of its procurement activities. Their Inclusive and Sustainable Procurement team drives the supplier diversity initiative at EY to promote supplier inclusion. \n\n\n\nRegistration closed. \n\n\n\n2026 EY Pitchers\n\n\n\nRound 1 – March 26th\n\n\n\n\n \n Our Team \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n David LeBlanc (he/him) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n LeBlanc Leadership Group \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n David LeBlanc (he/him) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n LeBlanc Leadership Group \n \n \n LeBlanc Leadership Group helps organizations build stronger leaders and high-performing teams through executive coaching\, team development\, and leadership programs. Our work focuses on creating clarity\, accountability\, and cultures where people and performance grow together. \nhttps://leblancleadership.ca/ \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Alice Curitz (she/they) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Our Landing Place \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Dr. Alice Curitz (she/they) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Our Landing Place \n \n \n Our Landing Place is a 2SLGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent affirming mental health clinic supporting clients through an intersectional and anti-oppressive lens across Canada. We offer consulting and training services to individuals and organizations to help them expand their understanding of and increase their ability to work with 2SLGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent folks. \nwww.ourlandingplace.com \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Leonardo Oliveira (he/him) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Second Nature English \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Leonardo Oliveira (he/him) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Second Nature English \n \n \n Second Nature English is a gamified fluency training ecosystem built on pattern recognition and authentic language integration. We help learners move beyond translation and develop the cognitive ability to naturally think and communicate in English. \nhttps://www.secondnatureenglish.ca/ \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michela Toscano (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n IONICA \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Michela Toscano (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n IONICA \n \n \n IONICA is a cyber security and site reliability firm that defends web sites\, AI\, and applications from attack — and we keep them online and fast\, all the time.\n\nhttps://ionica.ca/\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ty McKinney (he/him) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n 8 Bit Cortex \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Ty McKinney (he/him) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n 8 Bit Cortex \n \n \n 8 Bit Cortex helps publicly funded non-profits align their fundraising and data strategy through a social return on investment assessment process. Our ImpactCore platform allows our customers to digitally deliver their training programs\, assisted with AI Agents and gamification elements to ensure they can secure their funding with data-driven impact stories. \n8 Bit Cortex \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\nRound 2 – April 16th\n\n\n\n\n \n Our Team \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ginny Santos (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Neolé \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Ginny Santos (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Neolé \n \n \n Neolé helps leaders and teams think clearly during the day and sleep soundly at night. Through facilitation\, team development\, and NeuroPerformance Coaching\, we enable caring leaders to sustain high performance without burning out. \nHome \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Nazanin Moghadami (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Nabat Health Center \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Nazanin Moghadami (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Nabat Health Center \n \n \n Nabat Health Center is BC’s first queer forward\, trans inclusive health clinic dedicated to people of color\, and the first clinic within Fraser Health to explicitly provide gender affirming care and abortion services. \nNabat-health.ca \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PeopleDynamics Learning Group Inc (PDLG) \n\n \n PDLG Partners \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n PeopleDynamics Learning Group Inc (PDLG) \n\n \n PDLG Partners \n \n \n \n \n PDLG helps organizations address the costly breakdowns that occur when leaders lack the relational and conversational capacity required to lead complex teams. \nPeopleDynamics Learning Group Home \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Murielle Bien-Aimé (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Le Maison Komando \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Murielle Bien-Aimé (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Le Maison Komando \n \n \n La Maison Komandō is an award winning intimate apparel & clothing company based in canada. Our mission is to DISRUPT the underwear and lingerie industry and redefine what traditional feminine underwear & clothing looks and feels like. \nhttps://bekomando.com/ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Jackie F. Steele (she/her) \n\n \n CEO \n \n \n \n enjoi Innovation Inc (Vancouver) // enjoi Japan KK (Nagano) \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Dr. Jackie F. Steele (she/her) \n\n \n CEO \n \n \n \n enjoi Innovation Inc (Vancouver) // enjoi Japan KK (Nagano) \n \n \n enjoi Innovation empowers leaders to make data-informed decisions\, reduce governance risks\, and to leverage business intelligence from global market analytics that are tailored to the company’s unique human capital footprint. We support leaders in investing rationally in innovation readiness and diverse talent mobilization through the integration of ethical AI and data-wise analytics that are human (legal) expert validated. The long-game payoff is efficiency\, meritocracy and competitive edge powered by a flourishing\, innovative workplace. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\nRound 3 – May 7th\n\n\n\n\n \n Our Team \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mitch Schwartz (he/him) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Ops Machine \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Mitch Schwartz (he/him) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Ops Machine \n \n \n Ops Machine is a CGLCC-certified AI implementation and operations consultancy based in Montreal. We untangle complex technical projects by starting with the humans involved — so organizations build AI that actually fits how their people work\, not just how the technology works.\n\nOpsmachine.co \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Mak Rogers (they/he) \n\n \n Co-Founder \n \n \n \n Frankie D's Donuts \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Mak Rogers (they/he) \n\n \n Co-Founder \n \n \n \n Frankie D's Donuts \n \n \n \nFrankie D’s Donuts is a queer-owned social enterprise born from community conversations about mental health\, suicide prevention\, and other hard conversations shared over sweet treats. We now scale those conversations nationwide through our Conversations That Matter card decks\, helping workplaces and communities create braver spaces for honest conversations that reduce loneliness and build connection. \nwww.frankiedsdonuts.com \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bryn Bamber (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Bryn Bamber \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Bryn Bamber (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Bryn Bamber \n \n \n Employee burnout is quietly costing companies their best employees. I teach practical somatic tools that help employees regulate stress and stay performing. I’ve delivered this work for organizations like the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and Petrone & Partners Law. \nwww.brynbamber.com \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Hadis Saffari (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n H&M Maid INC \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Hadis Saffari (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n H&M Maid INC \n \n \n Commercial and post-construction cleaning \nHmmaid.com \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Paul Jen (he/him) \n\n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n Paul Jen Communications Inc. \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Paul Jen (he/him) \n\n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n Paul Jen Communications Inc. \n \n \n Paul Jen Communications Inc. is a queer-led strategic communications and brand advisory firm that helps established organizations align business strategy\, stakeholder narrative\, and market presence to drive growth with clarity and discipline. We work closely with Indigenous-owned and community-driven businesses\, bringing culturally aware\, structured communications that translate into measurable impact. \nWebsite: https://www.pauljen.com \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Seyed Nozadi (he/him) \n\n \n President \n \n \n \n System Support Canada \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Seyed Nozadi (he/him) \n\n \n President \n \n \n \n System Support Canada \n \n \n System Support Canada provides 24/7 managed IT services and proactive cybersecurity solutions tailored for small and medium-sized businesses. We specialize in maintaining infrastructure\, data backups\, and remote helpdesk support to ensure continuous productivity at predictable monthly costs.\n\nWebsite URL: https://systemsupport.ca/ URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/2026-ey-cqcc-pitch-competition/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/CQCC-EY-Pitch-Competition-96-in-x-36-in-scaled.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260223T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260223T150000 DTSTAMP:20260513T103803 CREATED:20250204T233530Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T150607Z UID:10002145-1771839000-1771858800@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:CQCC Connect Halifax DESCRIPTION:Join us in Halifax for CQCC Connect\, a unique event that brings together LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs\, corporate leaders\, and allies in a vibrant\, inclusive environment. This is your chance to discover new business opportunities\, establish valuable connections\, and participate in thought-provoking discussions that pave the way for long-term success. \n\n\n\nWhat to Expect\n\n\n\nThis event combines insightful breakout\, impactful networking\, and personalized opportunities designed to support the growth of LGBTQ+ businesses and promote supplier diversity. \n\n\n\n\nBreakout Sessions – Dive into engaging and thought-provoking breakout sessions tailored to your interests\, where you’ll explore key topics\, exchange ideas\, and connect with like-minded professionals.\n\n\n\nMatchmaking Sessions – A tailored opportunity for CQCC-certified suppliers and corporate partners ONLY to engage in focused\, strategic meetings that can unlock new collaborations and business ventures.\n\n\n\n\nWhy Attend?\n\n\n\nWhether you’re an established business owner\, a corporate leader seeking to diversify your supplier base\, or an ally eager to support the LGBTQ+ community\, CQCC Connect in Halifax offers a platform to connect\, collaborate\, and grow. \n\n\n\nBe part of an event that will inspire\, empower\, and strengthen the LGBTQ+ business community in Nova Scotia and beyond. \n\n\n\nRegister below and secure your spot for this transformative experience! \n\n\n\nProgram\n\n\n\nRegistration & Morning Coffee  \n\n\n\n9:30 AM – 10:00 AM  \n\n\n\nWelcome & Opening Remarks  \n\n\n\n10:00 AM – 10:15 AM  \n\n\n\nBeyond the RFP: Where Procurement Opportunities Begin \n\n\n\n10:15 AM – 10:35 AM \n\n\n\nThis 20-minute interactive spotlight session introduces suppliers and prospects to how procurement engagement in Nova Scotia often begins before an RFP is issued. The session focuses on visibility\, readiness\, and early engagement\, helping suppliers understand how businesses are identified\, remembered\, and considered within the procurement ecosystem\, without positioning the session as business development or matchmaking.  \n\n\n\nDesigned for both certified and prospective suppliers\, the session highlights common but often overlooked access points that support inclusive procurement\, such as early market awareness\, buyer visibility tools\, smaller-scope opportunities\, and capability-building pathways\, with a highlight on our SD benefits and alternative programs. The fast-paced format keeps experienced suppliers engaged while providing practical insight that prepares all participants for more meaningful participation throughout the event. \n\n\n\n\n \n Our Team \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Hanna Haddad (he/him) \n\n \n Business Development Manager\, East \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n\nFireside Chat: Igniting the Queer Atlantic Business Hub\n\n\n\n10:35 AM – 11:20 AMJoin Roseline Olesambu and Corrie Melanson from Sea Change CoLab Inc. for a fireside chat on the creation of the Queer Atlantic Business Hub. They’ll share key insights from the Atlantic-wide survey and interviews with 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs\, give a first look at what’s ahead for the Hub’s first year\, and invite participants to get involved as founding members.Come learn how this new initiative will connect\, support\, and amplify queer businesses across Atlantic Canada — and find out what’s coming next at the Hub’s official launch event in Moncton. \n\n\n\n\n \n Our Team \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Roseline Olesambu (she/her) \n\n \n \n \n Sea Change CoLab Inc \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Corrie Melanson (she/they) \n\n \n \n \n Sea Change CoLab Inc \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n\nCoffee and Health Break \n\n\n\n11:20 AM – 11:40 PM \n\n\n\nPanel Session: Building Queer Business in Halifax — Community\, Growth\, and Opportunity\n\n\n\n11:40 AM – 12:25 PM \n\n\n\nJoin us for an engaging and candid panel discussion featuring local Queer entrepreneurs who are shaping the region’s business landscape. This 45-minute\, informal conversation will spotlight the real experiences\, challenges\, and successes of building and growing a Queer-owned business in Atlantic Canada.  \n\n\n\nThrough personal stories and practical insights\, panelists will explore what it means to grow a business in a city outside Canada’s major commercial hubs—and how Halifax’s strong sense of community\, collaboration\, and creativity can become a powerful advantage.  \n\n\n\nPanelists will also reflect on the role of the CQCC in their journeys\, sharing how networking\, visibility\, mentorship\, and community support have contributed to their professional development and business growth.  \n\n\n\nThis session is designed to foster connection\, learning\, and inspiration for attendees at all stages of their entrepreneurial journey. Whether you are an established business owner\, a growing entrepreneur\, or just beginning to explore your path\, this panel offers valuable perspectives on building sustainable\, community-rooted businesses in Halifax and beyond. \n\n\n\n\n \n Our Team \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Myriane Ouellette (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Myriane Ouellette (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n \n Myriane Ouellette is an award-winning speaker\, strategist\, and facilitator who helps leaders and teams navigate change with confidence\, build resilience\, and align around a shared vision. As the founder and CEO of O Strategies\, she has worked with organizations across Canada to turn uncertainty into opportunity\, whether in immigration\, health\, education\, or community development. \nMyriane specializes in supporting leadership teams to get clear on their vision\, align their people\, and create workplaces where change feels possible\, not paralyzing. She helps organizations move beyond resistance\, break down silos\, and foster collaboration so that teams can adapt\, grow\, and thrive\, no matter what challenges come their way. \nKnown for her dynamic and engaging approach\, Myriane brings real-world strategies and practical tools to her work\, making complex change feel manageable. She believes that resilience isn’t about simply enduring change\, it’s about learning from it\, leading through it\, and creating cultures where people feel safe\, valued\, and ready to contribute. \nAs a sought-after speaker and thought leader\, Myriane delivers insightful\, high-energy talks that empower audiences to take action. Whether working with corporate teams\, nonprofits\, or community leaders\, she equips people with the mindset and strategies to build strong\, adaptive\, and future-ready teams. \nMom of two awesome girls\, wife to her amazing husband Dan\, and a proudly women-owned and 2SLGBTQIA+ business leader\, Myriane is deeply committed to helping organizations create inclusive\, forward-thinking workplaces that don’t just survive change\, but thrive in it. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pascale Joëlle Fortin-Daigle (they / all) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Hello Gender \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Pascale Joëlle Fortin-Daigle (they / all) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Hello Gender \n \n \n Pascale Joëlle Fortin-Daigle (they / all) is a consultant\, facilitator\, and strategist focused on belonging\, and the person behind Hello Gender. Their work lives at the intersection of meaning\, care\, and grounded action. Pascale doesn’t help organizations “do better\,” but rather do differently\, with courage\, nuance\, and humanity. \nRooted in listening and pedagogy\, they create spaces where complex questions become accessible\, where mistakes are allowed\, and where learning happens together. Their approach is both structured and deeply embodied: clear frameworks without rigidity\, and constant care for the people walking the circle\, whether they are on a personal journey or showing up as allies. \nThrough workshops\, consultations\, and transformation projects\, Pascale supports individuals and organizations in moving from inclusive gestures to real\, lasting practices of belonging. Their work invites slowing down\, naming what truly matters\, and building environments where people can recognize themselves\, contribute\, and stay. A vision of change that respects the living world\, honors individual and collective stories\, and reminds us that belonging cannot be declared. It is cultivated\, through relationship. \n— \nPascale Joëlle Fortin-Daigle (iel / tous) est consultant·e\, formateurice et stratège en sentiment d’appartenance\, et la personne derrière Hello Gender. Son travail se situe à la rencontre du sens\, du soin et de l’action concrète. Pascale n’aide pas les organisations à “faire mieux”\, mais à faire autrement\, avec courage\, nuance et humanité. \nAncré·e dans l’écoute et la pédagogie\, iel crée des espaces où les questions complexes deviennent accessibles\, où l’erreur est permise\, et où l’apprentissage se fait ensemble. Son approche est à la fois structurée et profondément incarnée: des cadres clairs sans rigidité\, une attention constante aux personnes qui marchent dans le cercle\, qu’elles soient en cheminement personnel ou en posture d’allié·e. \nÀ travers ateliers\, consultations et projets de transformation\, Pascale accompagne individus et organisations à passer de gestes inclusifs à des pratiques d’appartenance réelles et durables. Son travail invite à ralentir\, à nommer ce qui compte vraiment et à bâtir des environnements où chacun·e peut se reconnaître\, contribuer et rester. Une vision du changement qui respecte le vivant\, honore les histoires individuelles et collectives\, et rappelle que l’appartenance ne se décrète pas: elle se cultive\, dans la relation. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Wren Bruce (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Bruce GEOinsights \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Wren Bruce (she/her) \n\n \n Founder \n \n \n \n Bruce GEOinsights \n \n \n Based in Nova Scotia\, Wren Bruce is the founder of Bruce GEOinsights [pronounced GEE-OH insights]\, a consultancy that adds business value to organizations either through geoscience consulting for the minerals industry or science communications for corporate buyers requiring advisory on climate\, energy\, and sustainability messaging. When she’s not bushwhacking in the field or making geology relevant to modern society\, Wren is mentoring the next generation of scientists and advocating for inclusion in her industry.\n \nThrough earth science\, Wren connects underground insights to aboveground impacts. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\nLunch \n\n\n\n12:25 PM – 1:25 PM \n\n\n\nBuyer and Supplier Matchmaking Session \n\n\n\n1:25 PM – 2:30 PM \n\n\n\nReception and Closing Remarks \n\n\n\n2:30 PM to 3:20 PM \n\n\n\nLocation: Glitter Bean Cafe Co-op\, 5896 Spring Garden Rd\, Halifax\, NS B3H 0A6. \n\n\nPlease enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. – Step 1 of 3First Name *Last Name *Pronoun(s) *They/ThemShe/HerHe/HimShe/TheyHe/TheyHe/She/TheyOtherEmail *PhoneAre you or your business one of the following? *CQCC Certified SupplierCQCC Corporate MemberCQCC Affiliate MemberRepresentative from an ecosystem or affiliate organization2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneur\, but not a CQCC memberMedia representativeGovernment representativeCQCC Program Participant (Mentorship\, Advisor Access\, or Mental Health)I’m not a 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneur\, but interested in attendingCQCC Staff/SpeakerJob Title *NextCompany/Business Name *Industry *City *Is your SME owned and managed by an equity-deserving group that has been served? *2SLGBTQI+WomenVisible minoritiesIndigenous personsYouthPersons with disabilitiesNot applicableFeel free to select more than one. Simply press ‘Shift’ and the options.Are you from a rural\, remote\, or northern community? *YesNoAre you a 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneur? *YesNoDietary restrictions\, if any *VegetarianGluten-freeDairy-freeLactose intoleranceHalalKosherNoneNextAccessibility needs\, if any *Wheelchair AccessibilitySign Language InterpretationNoneOther \n By needs\, a\n \n \n By registering\, you consent to the following: *You may be filmed or photographed during the event. They might be used for promotional material\, including advertisements on CQCC social media and website. If you have any concerns\, please notify a staff member upon arrival.I agree to receive communications from CQCC. *I agree to receive promotional communications from CQCC. In order to provide you the content requested\, we need to store and process your personal data.You may unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For more information please review our Privacy Policy at https://queerchamber.ca/privacy-policy/Submit URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/cqcc-connect-halifax/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/02/Screenshot-2026-02-02-at-4.35.50-PM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260223T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260223T143000 DTSTAMP:20260513T103803 CREATED:20260213T165534Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T172939Z UID:10002215-1771851600-1771857000@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:Rainbow Registered Presents: GENDERCRAFT  DESCRIPTION:A Deeper Dive on Gender Identity & Gender Expression\n\n\n\n\n\nGender Identity Fundamentals \n\n\n\nThis module is primarily concerned with deepening understanding of the term “gender identity”. It discusses five major components of gender identity: sense of self\, community identity\, societal influences\, biology\, and time. \n\n\n\nThe module proceeds to discuss intersectionality and the ways gender interacts with other aspects of identity. There is a brief discussion of pronouns\, and the distinction between pronouns and identity. The module continues with a detailed examination of cisgender privilege\, to ground the theoretical discussion and prepare participants to explore the scenarios in Module II.  \n\n\n\nGender Identity Fundamentals concludes by addressing current political context for trans people internationally and nationally\, and possible actions. \n\n\n\n\n\n \n Our Team \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Eliot Newton (they|them) \n\n \n \n \n Genderbandit \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n Eliot Newton (they|them) \n\n \n \n \n Genderbandit \n \n \n Eliot Newton is a genderqueer activist and educator who has been working in the 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion field for twelve years. After ten years in the nonprofit sector\, working primarily in education and health care\, Eliot now freelances as a gender and sexuality expert. They help teachers\, small and large businesses\, and community organizations make their spaces safer for queer and trans clients (as well as their staff!). You can learn more about them at their website\, Genderbandit.com. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\nSession Schedule:1:00-1:10 – Intro & Housekeeping1:10-1:25 – Gender Identity in Depth1:25-1:35 – Pronouns1:35-2:05 – Cisgender Privilege2:05-2:15 – Next Steps & Wrap-up2:15-2:30 – Q&A \n\n\n\nSeries schedule:February 23\, 2026 – 1-2:30pm – Gender Identity FundamentalsMarch 2\, 2026 – 1-2:30pm – Gender Identity ApplicationsMarch 9\, 2026 – 1-2:30pm – Gender Expression FundamentalsMarch 16\, 2026 – 1-2:30pm – Gender Expression Applications \n\n\n\nNote: facilitator is bilingual though facilitation will be primarily in EN URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/rainbow-registered-presents-gendercraft/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/1.png ORGANIZER;CN="rainbow registered":MAILTO:rainbowregistered@queerchamber.ca END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260224T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260224T180000 DTSTAMP:20260513T103803 CREATED:20251015T153245Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251202T172711Z UID:10002199-1771934400-1771956000@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:Virtual One-on-One Matchmaking (Members Only) DESCRIPTION:CQCC’s One-on-One Virtual Matchmaking is a semi-annual event that brings together Certified 2SLGBTQI+Q Business Enterprises and CQCC corporate members. During each session\, 2SLGBTQI+BEs have the opportunity to present their business to our Corporate Members\, providing a perfect opportunity for them to learn about each unique 2SLGBTQI+BE in a concentrated environment. The matchmaking event is held in a completely virtual setting\, allowing attendees to book meeting times throughout the afternoon that fit best with personal scheduling.  \n\n\n\nWe would like to extend a Corporate/Supplier-only invitation for you to join us at our upcoming Virtual Matchmaking event on February 24th from 12 pm to 6 pm ET. \n\n\n\nWe will begin by hosting a Welcome Webinar from 12 pm to 12:30 pm EDT. This workshop is sponsored by our friends at Realize. Throughout the afternoon\, matchmakers can schedule 15 or 30 minutes one-on-one meetings. As an added benefit\, Certified Suppliers can schedule meetings with Corporate Members in attendance and fellow diverse suppliers.CQCC has engaged with mybusinessmatches.com for this event to create a technologically and socially-elevated matchmaking experience for corporate members and certified suppliers. \n\n\n\nThis event is open to only CQCC’s certified suppliers and corporate partners. URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/virtual-one-on-one-matchmaking-members-only/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/Screenshot-2025-11-04-at-10.38.41-AM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260225T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260225T150000 DTSTAMP:20260513T103803 CREATED:20251016T193802Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T210018Z UID:10001815-1772028000-1772031600@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:Webinar Wednesday: Navigating the Maze of Government Procurement: a Vendor's Perspective DESCRIPTION:A practical roadmap to find\, qualify\, and win public-sector contracts—focused on fast setup\, compliant bidding\, and navigating the maze that is public procurement. Joe Noss is a proud member of CQCC and the CEO of Publicus\, a startup that helps vendors find and win contracts without the headache. Publicus is also a vendor to the Federal Government\, providing analytics on procurement. \n\n\n\n\n \n Our Team \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Joe Noss (he/him) \n\n \n \n CEO and Founder \n \n \n Publicus URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/webinar-wednesday-navigating-the-maze-of-government-procurement-a-vendors-perspective/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/CQCC-2026-Webinar-Wednesdays-February.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20260226T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20260226T150000 DTSTAMP:20260513T103803 CREATED:20260122T183156Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T212734Z UID:10002212-1772114400-1772118000@queerchamber.ca SUMMARY:FINANCE UNLOCKED: Plan. Fund. THRIVE. DESCRIPTION:Financial stability is possible – even in the start-up phase. Join us for this engaging workshop for entrepreneurs managing inconsistent income and growing a business from the ground up. Learn how to plan your finances with confidence\, build smart protections through insurance and emergency funds\, safeguard your creative work and business assets\, and explore funding options like grants and loans. \n\n\n\nWalk away with practical tools\, clear strategies\, and greater confidence to support the long-term success of your business. \n\n\n\nWho should attend: Queer professionals\, entrepreneurs\, and creatives at any stage who want practical\, actionable insights to take charge of their finances.  URL:https://queerchamber.ca/event/finance-unlocked-plan-thrive-fund/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://queerchamber.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/Screenshot-2026-01-22-at-1.02.57-PM.png ORGANIZER;CN="Parisa Pajooh":MAILTO:contact@parisafinancial.com END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR