Leadership Conference 2026

BCNU’s 2026 leadership conference will take place Nov. 18–19 at the Pinnacle Hotel Vancouver, on the ancestral, traditional and unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations. 

Building Connection & Collective Power brings leaders and activists together for two days of learning, connection and community-building. Participants will hear from speakers and take part in interactive sessions focused on strengthening their knowledge of the union and leadership skills, while gaining practical tools and insights to bring back to their regions and the work ahead. 

The conference is invite-only for regional executive members, provincial HRE caucus and network chairs, member educators, ratio representatives, stewards and EDMP representatives. Invitations to attend will be sent to eligible participants on Sept. 25.

Interested in getting involved with BCNU? Learn more about regional leadership, becoming a steward and BCNU’s elections process.  

Speakers 

Building Confidence from Within  

Raia “Coach” Carey, a three-time certified life coach, speaker and equity, diversity and inclusion consultant, is passionate about encouraging others to tap into confidence they never knew they had. Combining her education in psychology from Concordia University and professional coaching training through IPEC and George Brown College with her life experiences, Coach Carey has risen to her purpose, translating personal tragedies and triumphs into practical tools and strategies.  

Relentless Decency: A Practical Approach to Acting On What We Say We Value   

Tod Maffin has emerged as one of Canada’s most distinctive voices on the Canadian identity. A former national CBC Radio host, Tod has built a loyal following through sharp weekly essays and viral videos that unpack what it means to be Canadian – warts, pride, contradictions and all.   

Known for cutting through the noise with clarity, wit, and honesty. Tod doesn’t just inform audiences – he challenges them to think critically, laugh thoughtfully, and reconsider the stories we tell ourselves about who we are as a country.  

PEC and CEO Panel  

Adriane Gear – President 
Tristan Newby – Vice President 
Scott Duvall – Provincial Treasurer 
Denise Waurynchuk – Executive Councillor, Occupational Health & Safety and Mental Health 
Michelle Sordal – Executive Councillor, Pensions 
Jim Gould – Chief Executive Officer