Inclusion in the Heartland: "The Value of Difference" Conference
Discover how embracing difference strengthens communities, workplaces, and relationships. Join us for inspiring keynote sessions, interactive activities on allyship, expert panels on employment inclusion and psychological safety, and performances that celebrate diverse cultures—all designed to create safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces.
Why Attend?
This conference is designed to inspire and equip participants with the knowledge and tools to foster inclusive communities and workplaces. Whether you're a business owner, HR professional, community leader, or someone passionate about inclusion, this event offers tools you can put into practice.
Through engaging activities, thought-provoking discussions, and immersive experiences, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how diversity strengthens our community and drives innovation.
Event Highlights:
- Inspiring Keynotes: Learn from experts who share practical strategies for creating inclusive spaces.
- Interactive Experiences: Participate in activities and cultural showcases.
- Community Connections: Network with local businesses, non-profits, and residents committed to making a difference.
- Delicious Lunch
Who Should Attend?
This event is ideal for local non-profits, businesses, HR managers, city staff, residents, and anyone passionate about building inclusive communities.
Accessibility and Support:
We strive to make this event accessible to all. If cost or other barriers exist, reach out FCSSinfo@fortsask.ca.
2025 Conference
Inclusion in the Heartland: The Value of Difference occurred October 2, 2025 in the Lions Ballroom, Dow Centennial Centre in Fort Saskatchewan and included topics and presentations from:
- Marni Panas Consulting | Diversity and Inclusion
- Harmony In The Workplace
- John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights
- Women Building Futures | Free Skills Training & Support
- Servus Credit Union | Diversity Equity Inclusion
- CUBAN MOVEMENTS
- FiestaCubana | FiestaCubana Dance School
Inspiring Keynote - Marni Panas
Marni Panas is diversity and inclusion professional dedicated to creating safe and welcoming, and inclusive environments especially for the LGBTQ2S+ population in large public and private organizations, all levels of government and departments, health care, educational institutions, corrections and law enforcement. She was a member of the LGBTQ2S+ Apology Advisory Council which helped draft the apology Prime Minister Justin Trudeau delivered in the House of Commons on Tuesday, Nov 28, 2017 to LGBTQ2S+ people in Canada who for discrimination and injustices faced by this community as a result of federal legislation, policies and programs.
She was also part of the work that led to Gender Identity and Gender Expression being added as protected grounds from discrimination to Alberta’s Human Right’s Act. She was part of an expert panel that assisted in developing guidelines to support school boards in Alberta in creating policies that would provide safe and welcoming environments for LGBTQ students, families and staff. She provided testimony to the Standing Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs in support of Bill C-16 (And Act to amend Canada’s Human Rights Act and the Criminal Code of Canada) which received Royal Assent in July, 2017
As an engaged member of her community, Marni has been honoured with:
- Human Rights Award (John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights)
- Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal
- Global Woman of Vision (Global Edmonton)
- Alumnus of Distinction (Camrose Composite High School)
- Woman of Distinction – Nominee (Edmonton YWCA Woman of Distinction)
Panels and presentations from John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights, Women Building Futures,
Interactive Allyship in Action activity
Thank You to Our Sponsors
We gratefully acknowledge the support of our sponsors, whose contributions make Inclusion in the Heartland possible:
Canada/Alberta Government, DOW, City of Fort Saskatchewan, Sherritt, and Beyond Diversity