2024 Education Forum

As sessions, speakers, and activities are confirmed the agenda below will be updated. All times & locations are subject to change.

 Plenary Session Highlights

From Far & Wide: Protocol & Diplomacy across Canada – Hosted by Sébastien Carrière, Chief of Protocol of Canada, join Chiefs of Protocol from across Canada for a discussion that will explore the intricacies and importance of place-based protocols, honouring and incorporating Indigenous protocols in Canada, sharing of best practices in our diplomatic work and more.

The Evolution of Vexillology: The Protocol, Diplomacy, and Fascination with Flags – join a panel of protocol professionals for discussion about the guidelines and use of flags, symbolism of protocols, importance of understanding and our collective interest in flags – and getting them right!’

Supporting your Principal at home, on the road, and abroad - explore the very personal role of diplomatically supporting your Principal in different environments with a panel of experts - the art of personal and discrete service at home and in official residences, navigating travel and support on the road, and collaborating with colleagues from afar to support your VIP abroad.

The Greatest Honour – Paying tribute, heeding protocol, and the diplomatic navigation at a life’s end – hear from protocol professionals about how they have navigated one of life’s most important and delicate events – the death of a VIP - often in the public eye, balancing the art and science of a final farewell. Topics will include recent state funerals, important tributes, and more.

Protocol & Diplomacy in Times of Protest – join colleagues for discussion and reflection on how they've gone about navigating protest demonstration and calls to action as they plan events, with an eye on protocol and diplomacy, during periods of international, national and local conflict, increased tensions, and significantly sensitive events.

Breakout Session Highlights

protocol and diplomacy foundations

  • Protocol Fundamentals-Military Protocols - Hope Fiorvanti
  • Tree Planting Ceremonies - Paul Putnam
  • Agreements & Signing Ceremonies - Louis Dussault
  • Event Planning by Focus Areas-Guest Experience & Event Management - April Upton
  • Understanding the international & cultural aspects of diplomatic protocol - Jiali Zhou
  • Protocol Fundamentals - Order of Precedence & Seating

leadership development 

  • Soft Skills: an Undying Language - Britney Lowery
  • Conversation Psychology: Recognizing the Art & Strategy Behind the "Gift of Gab" - Mackenzie Wasilick
  • Recruitment & Succession Planning for our Next Generation of Protocol Professionals - Eilis Courtney & Aretha Phillips

sustainable (and sustaining!) protocol and diplomacy

  • Incorporating Indigenous Protocols in Our Daily Work - Bryn MacPherson
  • Protocol Supporting the Nation's Science, Technology & National Security Mission - Evren Essner
  • Technology Tips, Tricks & Tools - Mackenzie Wasilick
  • The Future of Protocol; The True Value of Our Profession - Jean Paul Wijers
  • Nation to Nation: Protocol & relationships between government and Indigenous communities - Marie Larsson

wellbeing and connection

  • Sustaining ourselves: health + wellbeing with a dash of protocol & diplomacy - Hope Laman
  • Opening Reception
  • Author's Corner - meet the author and learn more about your peers' process and expertise.
  • Daily & evening opportunities for discussion & networking - watch for more information about optional social gathering opportunities