A Remembrance Day Event exploring the power and potential of Young Women. Learn how 40,000 teenage girls that produced the food feeding Canada and WWII soldiers helped pave the way for change and the leaders of today.
During World War War II, while men fought overseas, a quiet evolution was taking place in the fields of rural Canada. At a time when farm work was considered “a man’s job”, the Farmerettes (teenage girls from across Canada) responded to the call-to-action and took on a critical task of feeding a country at war. Without knowing it, they sowed seeds of gender equality and economic empowerment that would fuel future generations.
Their story isn’t only about the war effort, it is about how underestimated teens answered the call of duty and accomplished great things, redefining the definition of strength and what was possible for women in the work force.
On November 10th, The Empire Club Foundation together with the Empire Club of Canada presented a private screening of We Lend a Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes followed by a panel discussion entitled She Answered the Call that examines an important historical gender role disruption and what it means for today’s workforce, and the power of youth to make change in 2025.
Our expert panel included Bonnie Sitter, Historical Producer of We Lend a Hand and co-author of Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz; Colin Field, Producer and Director of We Lend a Hand, an award-winning director with a background in education and corporate learning, and Lechin Lu, Associate Director at the Institute for Gender and the Economy at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management. This event was moderated by Adrienne Batra, Editor-in-Chief of the Toronto Sun.
Prior to the panel, Gilbert Reid, Historian, Writer, Broadcaster, and Founding Director, The King and Empire Foundation, delivered special remarks on the history of WWII period in Canada and lay the foundation for how a wartime call-to-action broke open opportunities for young women.
This event focused on students and youth attendees who had an opportunity to be a part of ringing the closing bell at the TSX. The Empire Club Foundation also worked with high schools, colleges, and Universities to organize a live virtual screening of both the film and the panel to follow.
This event is made possible through a generous donation from Duncan Jackman and Richard Rooney.
Ontario’s justice system is undergoing one of the most ambitious periods of modernization in its history. With rapid advancements in technology, growing public expectations, and mounting pressures on the justice system, the province is at a defining moment. The question is: how do we build a system that is faster, smarter, and more resilient—while keeping communities safe and holding offenders accountable?
On November 6, 2025, The Empire Club of Canada presented Decades in 6 Years: Ontario’s Courts Modernization, Digital Transformation, and What’s Next. In this timely address, The Honourable Doug Downey, Attorney General of Ontario, reflected on the significant progress since his appointment six years ago in modernizing Ontario’s courts and advancing digital transformation.
This wide-ranging conversation examined how Ontario is modernizing the justice system from the ground up: cutting through outdated processes, strengthening access to justice, and delivering smarter tools to strengthen our economy, provide services people expect, hold offenders accountable, and keep communities safe. It also looked ahead at what’s next, as the province builds on a plan to protect Ontario and create a justice system that meets the needs of people today—and tomorrow.
Social determinants such as place of birth, where you live, employment, and education play a crucial role in health outcomes. For Black women and girls in Canada, systematic challenges, lack of research, and anti-Black racism compound health disparities including risks for various diseases, poorer perinatal outcomes and inequities in healthcare access and quality.
What are the best practices for how Canada’s health systems can improve the quality of Black women’s health? What lessons can other marginalized communities learn from this survey? What can sector leaders—particularly those in health and education, which employ many Black women—learn from this event to build healthier and more productive workforces?
On November 4th, The Empire Club of Canada, in partnership with the Black Women’s Institute for Health, will present: Whose Health Counts? Improving Health Outcomes for Black Women and Girls in Canada featuring expert panel:
This event will launch a first-of-its kind report of Black Women in Canada entitled Voices Unheard presented by Kearie Daniel, Executive Director of the Black Women’s Institute for Health.
The Economics of Action – Implementing Canada’s Defence, Industrial Strategy to grow the economy and assert Canadian Sovereignty
9 months and 9 billion dollars – the Government’s plan to REbuild, REarm and REinvest in the Canadian Armed Forces and Canada’s defence industry. As Canada meets our 2% NATO target, Canadian industry is faced with a generational opportunity to position Canada as a leader in technology, quantum, Artificial Intelligence, and cryptography.
For the first time as Minister of National Defence, The Empire Club of Canada will host the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, for a keynote speech and fireside chat on how Canada will meet its 2% NATO target, grow domestic industries, and create jobs for Canadians across the country. To build a safer world, to defend and advance our values, Canada must do so from a position of strength. If we want a safer world, we need a stronger Canada.
This is an Empire Nights event, proudly presented by the Empire Club of Canada.As Canada navigates a rapidly changing global landscape, it’s never been more vital to hold fast to the democratic values that unite us as Canadians.A distinguished member of the Council of Premiers, Premier Kinew has been instrumental in advancing shared priorities across provinces, from strengthening economic resilience to fostering unity through mutual respect and reconciliation.Join us for an event to hear from Premier Kinew on the latest focal point of national debate—Charter rights, the notwithstanding clause and the importance of our rights and freedoms in the pursuit of democratic resilience.On Thursday, October 23rd, The Empire Club of Canada welcomed The Honourable Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba, for an evening keynote and fireside conversation titled, A Stronger Canada. Moderated by David Herle, Co-founder, Air Quotes Media, Host of the Curse of Politics and The Herle Burly podcasts and Partner, Rubicon Strategy, the discussion explored Premier Kinew’s vision for a resilient nation and a prosperous, and inclusive future.
As Canada continues to face economic uncertainty and shifting global dynamics, strong provincial leadership is needed to meet the moment. Premier Doug Ford spent much of the first half of 2025 defending Canada’s national interests on the World Stage, earning him the moniker “Captain Canada.” As Chair of the Council of the Federation, he played an important leadership role, working with other premiers to support a united Canada.
On Tuesday October 14th, The Empire Club of Canada is proud to once again welcome The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario for a speech entitled Delivering Our Plan to Protect Ontario followed by a fireside chat moderated by Ben Mulroney.
At this timely event before the eve of the return of the Ontario Legislature, Premier Ford will outline the next chapter of The Ontario Government’s plan to protect Ontario — in order to keep our economy and business competitive.
Canada is at a moment of rare alignment with the new federal government’s focus on growth and a business community ready to build. Canadians across the country want to see quick action to address threats from the U.S. There’s growing momentum for the Build Canada Now movement. But the question is will we act fast enough?On October 2nd, 2025, The Empire Club of Canada presented Compete or Retreat: Energy, Ambition and Canada’s Future. In this timely address, Greg Ebel, President & CEO of Enbridge Inc., discussed how Canada can turn this window of opportunity into real action — and how energy infrastructure can serve as the foundation for a more globally competitive, sovereign, and resilient economy.From unlocking Indigenous prosperity to restoring investor confidence, this conversation featuring a fireside chat moderated by The Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Senior Business Advisor, Stewart McKelvey (a former Canadian Energy Minister) explored the steps needed to realize Canada’s potential as a global energy superpower.
As the Canada-U.S. relationship dominates discussions on both sides of the border, relationships with our U.S. partners could not be more important. The state of Michigan – with bilateral trade at over $95 Billion dollars annually (and $68 Billion dollars between Ontario and Michigan alone) — is Canada’s largest U.S. trading jurisdiction in such sectors as auto, manufacturing and services. Michigan and Canada are literally linked together. They share a border and key natural resources including four of the five Great Lakes
Canada and Michigan must work together to tackle big economic and environmental challenges from trade to climate change. As proud manufacturing partners with the same end goals of bringing critical supply chains home, creating good-paying jobs, and delivering prosperity for local families, Canada and Michigan have an opportunity to model what a productive, international partnership looks like to the rest of the world.
On Wednesday October 1st, 2025, the Empire Club of Canada partnered with the American Chamber of Commerce in Canada (AmCham Canada), to present The Canada-Michigan Relationship: An Address by The Honorable Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan. Governor Whitmer’s insights were followed by a fireside chat moderated by award winning journalist Steve Paikin, host of The Paikin Podcast.
This event occurred during Governor Whitmer’s visit to Canada to Chair the 2025 Leadership Summit of the Great Lakes St Lawrence Governors and Premiers. This event will be invaluable to understand the evolving trade landscape.
Building the Economy of the Future and The AI Nation: The Urgent Mission to make Canada AI and Quantum Strong
The future of economic prosperity and security will be determined by the revolutionary technologies AI and Quantum. From healthcare to defence to public services, AI and quantum will transform how government serves Canadians, reshaping nearly every corner of society. Canada needs to secure its place as a pioneering leader in both fields and build on our competitive advantages in research, talent and energy.
At this pivotal moment, The Empire Club of Canada hosted The Honourable Evan Solomon, Canada’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, for a keynote speech and fireside chat on how Canada will become an AI and Quantum Nation. He spoke about the plan to build the capacity, sovereignty, and global partnerships needed to lead in the next technological era. This conversation was moderated by Nicole MacIntyre, Editor-in-chief of the Toronto Star.
Toronto is the epicenter of sports and entertainment in Canada and MLSE is at the forefront of bringing sports-fans to their feet. Growing significantly from its hockey origins to becoming a diversified sports and entertainment powerhouse, MLSE is the home of the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto FC (MLS), and Toronto Argonauts (CFL).
From ownership and management changes to key off-season roster moves, MLSE is leaning-into the change – all while preparing Toronto to host FIFA World Cup 26, one of Canada’s biggest sporting events in history.
On Thursday September 18th, the Empire Club of Canada presented “The Courage to Change in The Pursuit of Championships, a major speech by Keith Pelley, President and CEO of MLSE. Mr. Pelley’s remarks were followed by a fireside chat moderated by Michael Landsberg, Canadian Sports Journalist and Creator of Off the Record.
This is a defining moment in Toronto’s history. As Canada undergoes unprecedented change and challenges, Toronto is feeling the pressure— but also must see the possibilities. From the lasting impact of the pandemic on how we live, work, and move through the city, to shifting global dynamics, such as the U.S. trade war that is sparking major domestic investment.
Toronto is having to navigate all these issues and more while keeping the following question and priority in focus:
How do we grow a stronger, more inclusive city while protecting the quality of life for over 3 million Torontonians—and more than 7 million across the GTHA?
On Tuesday, September 16th, join The Empire Club of Canada for a must-attend keynote with Jordan Bitove, Publisher of the Toronto Star, as he presents Toronto’s 2025 City Report Card. The remarks will be followed by a panel moderated by Giles Gherson, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Toronto Region Board of Trade, featuring Heather McDonald, President & CEO of United Way Greater Toronto., and Ana Serrano, President of OCAD University.
Get a first look at the Star’s new report—packed with data, insights, and real voices from across the city. From housing, transit, and public safety to sustainability, inequality, and civic engagement, this is a deep dive into what’s working, what’s broken, and how we fix it.
Ontario is going big and bold. As we face unprecedented economic challenges from US tariffs, we’re doubling down on a historic $200-plus billion plan to build new roads, transit, schools, hospitals, and long-term care homes. At the same time, Ontario is making it easier and faster to build residential, commercial and industrial buildings across municipalities.
As leaders and partners in the construction industry, you are invited to join Ontario’s Minister of Infrastructure, Kinga Surma, and Infrastructure Ontario Interim CEO and President, Angela Clayton, on June 5th, when the Market Update was released with details of upcoming projects involving highways, hospitals and other critical assets.
The event also included how the government is working with the building and development sector to get shovels in the ground sooner to protect Ontario’s economy, create more jobs and support communities.
This event was moderated by Kelly Jackson, Vice-President, Destination Development at Destination Toronto.
As the Canada-U.S. relationship dominates discussions on both sides of the border, the arrival of the U.S. Ambassador to Canada has never been more anticipated.
The new U.S. Ambassador to Canada is integral to addressing the most important issues between the United States and the newly elected Canadian government led by Prime Minister Mark Carney. As our countries’ leaders chart a path forward for the bilateral relationship, it is crucial that Canada builds a positive relationship with the United States’ most senior representative in Canada.
On June 3, 2025, the Empire Club of Canada will partner with the American Chamber of Commerce in Canada (AmCham), to present “A New Era for the Canada-U.S. Relationship,” the first public event in Toronto of the Honorable Pete Hoekstra, Ambassador of the United States to Canada. Ambassador Hoekstra will offer insights into the future of U.S.-Canada relations, followed by a fireside chat moderated by The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Vice-Chair, Global Investment Banking at CIBC Capital Markets.
With billions of dollars’ worth of goods crossing the border daily, the importance of understanding and engaging with the new U.S. Ambassador to Canada cannot be overstated. This event will be invaluable to understand the evolving trade, security, and diplomatic landscape that will define the next era of our relationship with the United States.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark event. Secure your tickets today.
The content presented is free of charge but please note that the Empire Club of Canada retains copyright. Neither the speeches themselves nor any part of their content may be used for any purpose other than personal interest or research without the explicit permission of the Empire Club of Canada.Views and Opinions Expressed Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the speakers or panelists are those of the speakers or panelists and do not necessarily reflect or represent the official views and opinions, policy or position held by The Empire Club of Canada.
Canada is in the midst of a Global Trade War. This puts Ontario — as Canada’s economic engine — at the heart of the battle. At this unprecedented moment, the Empire Club of Canada will host The Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, Ontario’s Minister of Finance for his annual speech in anticipation of Ontario’s 2025 Provincial Budget.
This event will discuss the Ontario government’s plan to protect businesses, workers, and families during a time of economic uncertainty, while setting the stage to make Ontario the most competitive place in the G7 to invest, create jobs and do business.
On May 12, 2025 – join us at The Empire Club of Canada for a keynote speech and fireside chat with Minister Bethlenfalvy regarding his first budget since the Conservative Government received a new mandate in the 2025 General Election. The discussion will be moderated by Amanda Lang, Chief Financial Correspondent at CTV News and Anchor of Taking Stock, CTV.
This is an Empire Nights event, proudly presented by the Empire Club of Canada.
The results are in: Mark Carney’s Liberals have emerged with a minority government following one of the greatest comeback stories in Canadian political history.
Liberal party fortune’s skyrocketed in the first half of the campaign with pollster predictions of a majority of over 190 seats in this volatile race prompted by Mark Carney’s Liberal Leadership victory and a Trade war waged by U.S. President Donald Trump (as covered in our March’s Empire Nights event).
But the final week of the campaign saw a late Conservative surge, prompting crucial questions: What precipitated the surge? Were young males under 40 a decisive force in shifting the momentum? Was housing-affordability a sleeper hit? And what does all this signal for the future of Canadian politics?
If you are like most Canadians did not see this electoral outcome as a possibility, this is an event for you. On May 6th, join the Empire Club of Canada for a special post-election edition of Empire Nights: The Pollsters: The Story of Canada’s Election and the New Government’s First 100 Days.
A panel of expert pollsters will go beyond the headlines to unpack what really drove the election outcome — and what it tells us about the road ahead for Canada’s political landscape. Our panel of leading pollsters features:
– David Coletto, Founder, Chair, and CEO of Abacus Data
– Kyla Ronellenfitsch, Founder of Relay Strategies
– Sébastien Dallaire, Executive Vice President, Eastern Canada, Léger
Each will share their unique perspective on the recent election and its implications. Following their presentations, they will sit down with Robert Benzie, journalist and Queen’s Park Bureau Chief, Toronto Star, to explore what lies ahead for Canada’s new government — and what the first 100 days may reveal about the priorities of the next Prime Minister.
Join us in partnership with The Niagara Roundtable for an unforgettable evening of passed canapés, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere designed to inspire and connect.
*The content presented is free of charge but please note that the Empire Club of Canada retains copyright. Neither the speeches themselves nor any part of their content may be used for any purpose other than personal interest or research without the explicit permission of the Empire Club of Canada.*
*Views and Opinions Expressed Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the speakers or panelists are those of the speakers or panelists and do not necessarily reflect or represent the official views and opinions, policy or position held by The Empire Club of Canada.*
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Corruption costs the world economy around US$5 trillion each year, the equivalent of 5% of global GDP, according to Transparency International. This widespread issue hinders economic growth, deepens inequality, and siphons funds from essential public services like education and healthcare.
While many view corruption as a government issue, businesses can’t afford to ignore the risks. Organizations that neglect these risks not only risk reputational damage but can also face financial penalties, regulatory scrutiny, and potential legal complications. Both businesses and governments have a vested interest in fighting corruption – and this event is crucial for businesses to learn about how to protect themselves and maintain compliance.
Is worldwide corruption on the rise?
On May 6, 2025, join us at the Empire Club of Canada to find out! This insightful discussion will feature key business leaders and experts on the critical role of the private sector in combatting corruption.
Our panel will explore the potential impact of changes in U.S. policies, such as eliminating beneficial owner disclosure and the Trump administration’s decision to halt enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act — which has been the linchpin of global anti-corruption efforts — on Canadian businesses operating in the U.S. and abroad.
The event will also cover new international anti-corruption initiatives, how the private sector can support them, and provide insights on identifying red flags of corruption and money laundering, as well as enhancing due diligence on customers’ wealth sources.
Panelists include Hentie Dirker, Chief ESG and Integrity Officer at AtkinsRéalis; Peter German, President of the International Centre for Criminal Law Reform; Allan Rock, World Refugee & Migration Council Member and former Minister of Justice & Attorney General of Canada, and moderated by Rita Trichur of The Globe and Mail.
The results of a public opinion survey by Angus Reid Institute on the prevalence of corruption in Canada will be shared at the event, and an action plan for the private sector will provide a unique perspective on how businesses can safeguard their operations and reputation.
*The content presented is free of charge but please note that the Empire Club of Canada retains copyright. Neither the speeches themselves nor any part of their content may be used for any purpose other than personal interest or research without the explicit permission of the Empire Club of Canada.*
*Views and Opinions Expressed Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the speakers or panelists are those of the speakers or panelists and do not necessarily reflect or represent the official views and opinions, policy or position held by The Empire Club of Canada.*
The average life expectancy of a Canadian has grown over the past 200 years from below 40 to over 82 years. Canadians are living longer, but for many, it is not long enough.
The pursuit of longevity is further evolving – becoming a passion feeding a booming industry promoting preventative and personalized health care strategies to increase not only our lifespans but our health spans as well. From cold plunges to red-light therapy – from sleep-tracking rings to biohacking practices, there have been many varying methods that have been featured by celebrities in the news and social media, that are claimed to promote life extension.
But are any of these treatments grounded in science?
Longevity also has “side effects”. When our retirement years can last longer than expected, it requires a different approach to savings and investment portfolio construction. There are insurance implications and immeasurable costs for the sandwich generation as they balance unpaid caregiving with paid employment – impacting economic productive and growth potential.
This event will feature three very different approaches to longevity.
On April 23, 2025, the Empire Club of Canada will first hear featured remarks from Dr. Kashif Irshad, Lifespire’s Medical Director & Co-Founder on the evolving science of longevity that impacts health vitality and well-being.
We are also honoured to welcome the remarks from Dr. Samir Sinha, Geriatrician and Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto and Director of Health Policy Research at the National Institute of Ageing, on the science of ageing from his perspective of his role as a renowned clinician and research who has been known to question the scientific basis for some of the emerging longevity practices being currently promoted.
And to understand how living longer should impact your personal approach to financial and estate planning, we will welcome Alex Besharat, Executive Vice President, Canadian Wealth Management of Scotia Wealth Management to join our medical experts on a panel.This discussion will be moderated by Karli Farrow, President and CEO, Trillium Health Partners.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is causing disruption in almost every sector — and the professional services sector is no exception. For those working in law, finance and accounting, AI’s influence is already here, impacting how you work and what clients expect.
To stay competitive, firms must balance growth, efficiency, and service innovation with regulatory standards and ethical responsibilities. AI introduces risks that can be challenging for professions grounded in precision and trust, especially as ethical and regulatory frameworks lag in keeping up with technological advancements. The professional services workforce will also change, pushing professionals to become more adaptable, develop new skills and stay ahead of evolving client expectations.
On April 15, 2025, the Empire Club of Canada will host an insightful discussion titled The AI Revolution: What’s Next for Law, Finance, and Accounting? This event will bring together a panel of experts to explore the challenges, strategies, risks, and opportunities associated with integrating AI into these key professional services. The discussion will feature Dr. Foteini Agrafioti, Chief Science Officer at RBC and SVP of RBC Borealis; Colin Lachance, Innovator-in-Residence at the Ontario Bar Association; Iliana Oris Valiente, CPA, CA, Managing Director, and NA Innovation Hubs Lead at Accenture; and will be moderated by Cameron Schuler, Chief Commercialization Officer and Vice President of Industry Innovation at the Vector Institute.
Canada and the world are facing a momentous energy challenge. With energy demand soaring, aging infrastructure, population growth, and artificial intelligence rapidly advancing, the pressure on our energy systems has never been greater.
On April 10, 2025, join us at the Empire Club of Canada for an insightful conversation with Nicolle Butcher, President and CEO of Ontario Power Generation (OPG) – one of North America’s most diverse electricity generators. Nicolle will discuss how OPG plans to help grow Ontario’s economy and energy sector supply chains through first-of-a-kind technologies, new generation developments, and one of the nation’s largest refurbishment programs.
This event marks Nicolle Butcher’s first address as CEO of OPG, where she will outline her vision for OPG. The fireside chat will be moderated by Amanda Galbraith, Partner at Oyster Group.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from a leader at the forefront of shaping our energy landscape.
*The content presented is free of charge but please note that the Empire Club of Canada retains copyright. Neither the speeches themselves nor any part of their content may be used for any purpose other than personal interest or research without the explicit permission of the Empire Club of Canada.*
*Views and Opinions Expressed Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the speakers or panelists are those of the speakers or panelists and do not necessarily reflect or represent the official views and opinions, policy or position held by The Empire Club of Canada.*
This is an Empire Nights event, proudly presented by the Empire Club of Canada.
The stakes could not be higher for Canadians as we choose our next government. With President Trump imposing tariffs to economically coerce Canada into becoming the 51st state, threats to our water and borders, and the shifting of global alliances away from post-WWII norms, Canadians have awakened to a profound sense of patriotism and resolve.
Against this backdrop, Canada’s governing party has chosen Mark Carney to lead them into the election against Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives and Jagmeet Singh’s NDP at the national level.
Most experts agree that the convergence of these two events has made the outcome of Canada’s 2025 election less predictable. Just a few months ago, every poll indicated that the Conservatives were heading towards a decisive victory. With a more competitive election on the horizon, the Empire Club of Canada has brought together a group of experts who will make sense of the rapidly changing political landscape.
Join Kory Teneycke, Co-founder and CEO, Rubicon Strategy; Hon. Seamus O’Regan, former Trudeau government cabinet minister; Kathleen Monk, Principal of Monk+Associates; and Laura Stone, Staff Reporter, Globe and Mail as moderator.
Kicking off this event will be renowned pollster David Coletto, Chair and CEO of Abacus Data to provide special remarks and a presentation outlining polling data on the mood of the Canadian electorate.