Post-Event Report
"It was a spectacular event. Great networking with other fellow Christian entrepreneurs. Learned a lot from the speakers as well and their insights on business." "It was a wonderful and inspiring experience. I learned a lot from the speakers and also from the people I met. Would definitely attend again." "I've enjoyed the event for years and fully recommend it for young and seasoned leaders." "I always walk away feeling informed of current challenges."
The focus was to get leaders “future ready” with great sessions on the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI), changes in the public square, economic developments, the role of creativity and back to work, and the role of women in the workforce.
We had a great turnout at the ELO Forum with a 50% attendance increase over last year. In addition, we had three times the amount of sponsorship value supporting this year’s event. The ELO Forum continues to be the highest-grossing event each year in Winnipeg for the Christian business community.
The ELO Forums are unique for their focus on Christian business leadership, their ability to connect people from a broad spectrum of the leadership community, and the live Q&As with world-class speakers.
ELO dates back to 2005 when Dr. Richard (Rick) J. Goossen, Chairman, ELO Network, organized the first conference. Since then, we have grown to host about 100 events and conferences across the globe, thanks to a grassroots coalition of speakers, sponsors, advisors, and supporters.
In Winnipeg, we had a lineup of eight amazing speakers. The first three speakers focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI). The issues around AI are staggering and there are wide-ranging implications for society and businesses. What is the nature of being human? Can machines think? What is the morality underlying AI? Will AI replace people or make them more efficient?
First was a Q&A hosted by Rick Goossen with Dr. John Lennox, Professor Emeritus, University of Oxford, via Zoom where they discussed “2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity."
Second was a presentation and Q&A with Andy Steiger, Founder & President, Apologetics Canada. Andy spoke on "An Overview of AI: What Is AI & How Does it Work?"
The last presenter on AI was John Carbrey, Founder & Managing Director, FutureSight Ventures. John presented on "The AI Gold Rush: Seizing Untapped Commercial Opportunities" and talked about his work as a “venture studio” in helping entrepreneurs grow AI-related businesses.
After a great lunchtime of networking and connecting, the next speaker was Phil Cooke, Co-Founder & President, Cooke Media Group, Los Angeles. Phil discussed "The 10 Secrets of Becoming a Creative Leader” and referenced his extensive experience in media and filmmaking.
Following Phil was a presentation by Ron Haik, Wealth Advisor, Nicola Wealth. Ron spoke on the current "Economic Outlook: The Likely Trends & How To Be Ready.” Economic concerns such as inflation, interest rates, and tax changes are always on everyone’s mind.
Ray Pennings, Co-Founder, Cardus, delivered a presentation on “Canada’s Troubled Public Square,” highlighting the changing nature of Canadian society, the role of institutions, and people’s approach to faith.
Rick Goossen hosted a Q&A session with Oricel Caminero, Co-Founder & CEO, Achieve Consulting Group, and Board Member of Opportunity International, based in the Dominican Republic. Oricel addressed issues around entrepreneurship in a developing country context and, in particular, the role of women entrepreneurs.
Concluding our conference was Kathleen Cooke, Co-Founder & Vice-President, Cooke Media Group, Los Angeles. Kathleen discussed "Influencing Culture: Lessons from Changing Hollywood from the Inside.” Kathleen highlighted the importance of engaging culture-shapers, rather than simply criticizing.
Overall, this year’s ELO Forum in Winnipeg achieved its objectives. Attendees were able to build and renew relationships. There were many opportunities to be equipped through an exceptional group of speakers. The entrepreneurial spirit was celebrated through hearing great stories from the Dominican Republic and elsewhere.
For more information, view the latest edition of our Forum Magazine, the Entrepreneurial Leaders Review, to read about sponsors, speakers, and content from the Forum.
We are incredibly grateful for all the sponsors of this event that help
make the ELO conferences possible each year.
G O L D
S I L V E R
B R O N Z E
T A B L E S P O N S O R S
S U P P O R T I N G O R G A N I Z A T I O N S
