Building the Foundations for AI-Driven Communications
Registration and Morning Coffee
Keynote TBC
Shaping Canada’s AI Narrative: The Role of Media and Communications
Canada has long been a hub for AI research, but when it comes to global storytelling, the narrative often feels dominated by other markets. This session takes a closer look at how AI is showing up in Canadian journalism today—and how communications leaders can play a pivotal role in amplifying Canada’s voice on the world stage. We’ll explore examples of Canadian media covering AI, the opportunities and gaps in national storytelling, and how comms teams can shape narratives that resonate both locally and internationally. The goal: to better understand how Canada can lead not only in AI innovation, but also in telling the stories that define it.
Cam Gordon, Director, Communications and Public Affairs, Seneca Polytechnic
AI Integration 101: Where to Start, What to Avoid, and How to Scale
AI is transforming the communications function—but with so many tools and possibilities, knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. This session will cut through the noise with a practical roadmap for getting started. You’ll learn how to identify the right entry points for AI adoption, avoid common missteps that waste time and resources, and scale your use of AI in a way that complements—not replaces—human creativity and judgment. Drawing on real-world experience in the financial sector, this session will highlight how organizations can experiment with AI in communications and the lessons learned along the way. Whether you’re taking your first steps or looking to expand your AI capabilities, this session will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward with purpose.
Erick Bauer, Head of External Relations, Meridian Credit Union
Lunch for Speakers and Delegates
Change Management in the Age of AI: Upskilling, Adoption & Culture Shift
Integrating AI into communications isn’t just a technological challenge—it’s a human one. Successful adoption requires more than tools; it demands new skills, a shift in culture, and a clear roadmap for change. In this session, you’ll explore strategies for building an AI-ready communications team, from upskilling talent and addressing resistance to fostering a culture that embraces experimentation and continuous learning. You’ll also learn how to manage expectations across your organization, align AI adoption with business priorities, and create a sustainable path forward. The goal: ensuring AI enhances, rather than disrupts, your people and your purpose.
Christine Andrew, Managing Director, AI, KPMG Canada
Co-Creating With Machines: Collaborating With AI Without Losing Your Voice
AI can be a powerful creative partner—but only if you stay in control of the story. This session explores how communicators can collaborate with AI tools to spark new ideas, accelerate content creation, and scale storytelling, all while preserving authenticity and human insight. You’ll learn practical techniques for using AI as a co-creator, discover frameworks for maintaining brand integrity, and see real-world examples of how organizations are striking the right balance between machine efficiency and human creativity. The focus: enhancing your voice, not replacing it.
Ally MacLellan, Director, Integrated Intelligence & Technology, Proof Strategies
Networking and Refreshment Break
AI-Ready Workflows and Data Practices: Enhancing Creativity, Protecting Reputation
The promise of AI in communications isn’t just about speed—it’s about building smarter systems that unlock creativity while safeguarding trust. In this session, you’ll learn how to create workflows and data practices that enable your team to harness AI effectively, without sacrificing integrity or reputation. We’ll explore how to set up processes that drive productivity, maintain brand voice, and anticipate risks before they become crises. You’ll leave with a clear framework for designing AI-enabled communication practices that are both innovative and responsible—helping you scale your impact while staying in control.
Alex Sévigny, Associate Professor of Communications Management and Communication Studies, McMaster University
The AI Analyst: Interpreting Comms Data with Speed and Precision
Communications leaders are under pressure to move faster, prove impact, and make data-driven decisions. AI can help—but only if you know how to harness it effectively. This session explores how to leverage AI tools to analyze communications data in real time, extract actionable insights, and respond with precision. From monitoring sentiment and tracking engagement to surfacing hidden patterns, you’ll learn how AI can transform raw information into clear strategies that protect reputation and drive results. The focus will be on practical applications you can start using immediately—turning overwhelming data into a competitive advantage.
Felipe Curcio, North America Communications Manager, Intel Corporation
End of Day One
AI, Crisis & Trust: Navigating the New Frontlines of Reputation
Morning Coffee
Talk Nerdy to Me: Partnering with AI to Unlock the Unknown , Amaz
AI can help PR pros ask smarter questions, uncover insights, and learn what was previously unknowable— but it’s no replacement for human creativity and judgment. This session explores both the power and limits of AI, showing how better questions and true collaboration can elevate strategy, storytelling, and trust.
Jen Lurey Ridings, Devices Trust and Reputation PR Lead
Speaker TBC
Cyber Crisis in the Age of AI: Defending Against Data Breaches, and Digital Chaos
In today’s hyper-connected world, the line between a cyberattack and a communications crisis has all but disappeared. AI-generated deepfakes, synthetic audio, and weaponized disinformation are colliding with ransomware, phishing, and data breaches—creating a perfect storm that puts both your systems and your reputation at risk.
In this session Joy, unpacks how communicators and cybersecurity teams must work hand in hand when the attack is digital and reputational. You’ll learn how to detect and counter AI-fueled disinformation, activate cyber crisis playbooks in real time, and safeguard your organization when facts, data, and digital trust are under attack
Joy Lambert, US Head of Data Security & Privacy, Edelman
Lunch for Speakers and Delegates
Deepfakes and Disinformation: Navigating the New Frontlines of Crisis Response
The rise of deepfakes and AI-fueled disinformation has created a new, high-stakes battleground for communicators. In this session, you’ll explore how these technologies are reshaping crisis response—eroding trust, accelerating misinformation, and challenging traditional playbooks. We’ll examine real-world examples of how disinformation campaigns spread, the risks they pose to organizations and leaders, and the tools available to detect and counter them. Most importantly, you’ll learn how to prepare your team to respond with speed, accuracy, and credibility when the narrative is under attack. This is about more than defending reputation—it’s about protecting truth in an age of manipulation.
Adnan Bashir, Senior Manager, Global Corporate Communications, Hansen Technologies
When Culture Wars Meet Code: AI and the Future of Crisis Communication
In an age where every cultural flashpoint is amplified online, AI is reshaping how crises ignite—and how quickly they escalate. From algorithm-driven outrage to AI-generated narratives that blur fact and fiction, communicators now operate at the volatile intersection of technology and cultural division. This session will explore how AI is transforming the speed, scale, and stakes of crisis communication, unpacking strategies for anticipating flashpoints, countering misinformation, and navigating polarized audiences without losing trust. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how to prepare for the next wave of crises where culture wars meet code.
James Anderson, Communications Advisor, Global Media and Issues Management, FedEx Corporation
Networking and Refreshment Break
Mini Workshop 2.0: Crisis Simulations, Synthetic Audiences & Predictive AI
This hands-on workshop explores how artificial intelligence can transform the way organizations prepare for and navigate crises. Participants will learn how to leverage AI tools to design crisis simulations, run scenario planning, and build dynamic audience personas that reflect diverse stakeholders. By testing messages, operational decisions, and response strategies against these AI-driven personas, participants can uncover hidden risks and refine their crisis playbooks.
Through guided exercises, you’ll gain practical experience in using AI to:
- Generate and analyze crisis scenarios while maintaining confidentiality.
- Develop audience personas to anticipate varied reactions.
- Test communications and operational decisions in simulated environments.
Kim Blanchette, APR, Chart.PR, FCPRS, EVP, Class Action Advisory and Communications, Castlemain & EVP, Corporate Training, ChangeMakers
End of Summit
