Some attendees make their mark on the beach during FICP’s Canadian Region meeting (from left): Andrè Girard, Le Westin Resort & Spa, Tremblant; Pamela Hunter, RBC Global Asset Management; Anita Carlyle, Moore Carlyle Consulting; Greg Newton, Ottawa Convention Centre; Alison Jantzi, Manulife Financial; Lyne Montpetit, Fairmont Tremblant; and Maxine Trusty-Francis, RBC Insurance.

Meeting in Mont Tremblant, Québec, an all-season resort 90 minutes north of Montréal, 120 members and hospitality partners enjoyed a packed agenda at the FICP Canadian Region Meeting August 19–21.

The host venue, Fairmont Tremblant, and many sponsors were instrumental in giving this conference an environment that promoted learning and the exchange of ideas while allowing for the discovery of local treasures and tastes. The region’s members thank them for their contributions.

Keynote speaker Heath Slawner presented six principles in the science of influence and persuasion, based on the lifelong work of Robert Cialdini, PhD. Explaining that we are in the “pull, not push” era when we want people to accept our views, products, or services, Slawner shared valuable examples and techniques to help in our professional and personal lives.

Meeting on the Move was a seven-challenge teambuilding experience requiring team members’ complementary strengths to lead teams through the Tremblant pedestrian village, all creatively captured in pictures.

Other agenda highlights included two concurrent breakout sessions on contracts and trends. These were such hot topics that views were still being exchanged even after the sessions were over. A panel discussing corporate social responsibility and sustainability shared inspiring examples on making a difference during high-end events. The closing keynote speaker, Ray Zahab, an “ultramarathon” runner and adventurer, energized us to make a difference. He has raised awareness of the water crisis in Africa, inspired a generation of youth to save the world through an experiential learning program, and contributed to fundraising efforts.

We look forward to seeing you next year at the new Ritz-Carlton, Toronto!