What will the Okanagan look like in 2036? On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, regional leaders will come together at Okanagan College to explore that question at Okanagan 2036: CEOs on the Future of Our Valley, a dynamic panel focused on the next decade of economic, social, and entrepreneurial change.
Hosted through a collaboration between the Hall School of Business and Entrepreneurship at Okanagan College and MacKay CEO Forums, the event will feature influential CEOs and community leaders sharing insights on the forces shaping Kelowna and the broader Okanagan Valley.
The discussion will be facilitated by the President of Okanagan College, Dr. Neil Fassina, who will guide a forward-looking conversation on growth, resilience, and regional transformation.
"This event brings together leaders who are actively shaping the future of our region," said Don Holmstrom, MacKay CEO Forums Chair (Okanagan). "By looking ahead to 2036, we can better understand the opportunities and challenges before us and the leadership required to navigate them." MacKay CEO Forums is one of the largest CEO peer learning groups in Canada with over 1,300 members who share and learn from each other.
"At Okanagan College, we are committed to fostering dialogue that connects education, industry, and community," said Hall School of Business and Entrepreneurship Dean, Joe Baker. "This panel creates space for meaningful conversations about the future of the Okanagan and how we prepare the next generation of leaders to contribute to it."
Featured panelists include:
- Allyson Graf, CEO, YMCA of Southern Interior BC
- Brian Hawkins, President & CEO, BigSteelBox
- Jennifer Hollis, Managing Partner, MNP (Okanagan-Thompson Region)
- Simon Mills, President, Valley First Credit Union
Together, the panel will explore key questions shaping the region's future, including the evolution of the Okanagan economy, emerging industries, population growth, and the leadership needed to build a resilient and prosperous community.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Location: Theatre S104, Student Services Building, Okanagan College (1000 KLO Road, Kelowna)
Schedule:
- 7:30 - 8:10 a.m. | Networking (coffee and pastries)
- 8:10 - 8:15 a.m. | Welcome
- 8:15 - 9:30 a.m. | Panel Discussion
- 9:30 - 9:45 a.m. | Audience Q&A
- 10:00 a.m. | Event Concludes
The event is open to business leaders, entrepreneurs, community members, faculty, and students interested in the future of one of Canada's most entrepreneurial regions.
While this event is complimentary, seats are limited. To save your seat for this exciting event, click here to RSVP.
