Rural Renewal Through Social Innovation

Hosted by Acadia University’s Office of Industry & Community Engagement and The Purposeful Group, this event highlights the transformative solutions emerging in rural communities at the intersection of economic and social innovation. Join us to discover how rural communities are shaping the future through smart, social, and sustainable development strategies.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:
Our keynote speaker, Mayor Jon Norman, CEO of Bonavista Living and Bonavista Creative, will explore his successful efforts in revitalizing Bonavista as an international tourism destination. His approach blends cultural preservation and innovative investment, offering a blueprint for how rural communities can thrive while staying true to their roots.

PANELISTS
Following the keynote, the event will feature a distinguished panel, including Dr. Edith Callaghan, Professor, who is a leading voice in sustainable community development; Dr. Tanya Surette, Associate Professor, Coordinator, M.Ed. Counselling Program & Co-Founder, Red Spruce Mental Health Clinic; Kjeld Mizpah (KJ) Conyers-Steede, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Future Civics, who has led or contributed to community projects aimed at developing public policy programs and lobbying initiatives to tackle major societal issues; and Acadia psychology student, Sophia Rae, a young multi-entrepreneurial public speaker, author, podcaster and advocate specializing in trauma and mental health literacy for youth.

These leaders will share their insights on how rural communities are driving impactful change through social enterprise, mental health initiatives, and community-based solutions. Please join us!