Inaugural Victoria Forum tackles diversity, inclusion

VICTORIA, June 13, 2017 /CNW/ - The University of Victoria and Global Affairs Canada are joining forces this November to highlight diversity and inclusion in the 21^st century. The inaugural Victoria Forum brings together business leaders, visionaries, politicians, youth, and civil society leaders to stimulate new thinking and approaches for Canadians to promote diversity and inclusion at home and abroad.

The forum, Nov. 17 – 19, will explore diversity and inclusion through various lenses: social cohesion, economic perspectives, climate justice, indigenous economies, global trade, geopolitics and philanthropy, and is one of UVic's signature events to mark the 150^th anniversary of Canada's confederation.

"Our country's milestone anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the current state of global affairs," said Dr. Saul Klein, Dean of UVic's Gustavson School of Business and Forum Chair. "The world is changing. The Victoria Forum will bring together people with different viewpoints to explore the opportunities and challenges of diversity and inclusion, with the goal of inspiring solutions for a better world."

Keynote speakers will stimulate discussions around international diplomacy, conflict resolution, and innovative approaches to politics and community engagement. Follow-up discussion sessions will develop actionable takeaways for delegates to implement within their own organizations.

"This inaugural Victoria Forum will be a key opportunity to highlight and contribute to Canada's diversity and inclusion agenda," said Sébastien Beaulieu, diplomat at Global Affairs Canada, Associate Chair of the forum, and Adjunct Professor at UVic.

Over three days of panel discussions, moderated workshops, informal networking, and cultural and youth events, participants will experience different viewpoints, build valuable connections, gain new understanding and promote a Canadian perspective for the world that sees diversity and inclusiveness as key strengths.

Partners of the Victoria Forum include several prominent groups that have been an integral part of the steering committee actively supporting the development of the Victoria Forum including the Global Center for Pluralism, the Canadian International Council Victoria Branch, World Wildlife Fund Canada, Philanthropic Foundations Canada, the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation, and the Conference Board of Canada.

A backgrounder with more information including keynote speakers and registration details are available on the conference's website.

Peter B. Gustavson School of Business
The Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria is dedicated to providing a non-traditional business education and a dynamic learning environment that develops principled managers and leaders who can drive innovation and social change. Located in Victoria, BC at the University of Victoria, Gustavson belongs to fewer than one per cent of the world's business schools that hold both AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System) accreditation.  The Gustavson School of Business offers BCom, MBA, MGB and PhD programs, has 95 international exchange partners, and celebrated its 25th birthday in 2015. For more information, visit www.uvic.ca/gustavson 

SOURCE University of Victoria, Peter B. Gustavson School of Business

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