The Gala
An evening that brings the community together in recognition, connection, and shared purpose.
The Gala opens the 2026 conference on October 1, 2026, held at the
Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Vancouver.
It is the first moment where participants come together in person, setting the tone for everything that follows.
This is not simply an opening event.
It is a shared beginning.
A space to arrive, to connect, and to step into the experience alongside others who are shaping the future of public participation.
A Shared Moment
Guided by the theme:
Many Voices, One Table: Co-Creating the Future of Engagement
the evening reflects the importance of bringing different perspectives into conversation.
The conference identity, created by Ovila Maihot, offers a visual expression of this idea.
Two eagles face one another, representing dialogue, partnership, and the strength found in multiple perspectives.
That same spirit carries into the evening, where the focus is not only on recognition, but on connection, presence, and shared experience.
What the Evening Holds
The experience unfolds with intention, creating space for both gathering and reflection.
The evening includes:
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A reception that invites conversation from the moment you arrive
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A hosted dinner shared across the community
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The presentation of the Core Values Awards
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Time to connect, reflect, and engage with others
Each part of the evening is designed to feel natural and welcoming, allowing connections to form without effort.
Core Values Awards
At the centre of the evening is the presentation of the Core Values Awards.
These awards recognize projects, organizations, and individuals whose work reflects meaningful public participation across Canada.
They acknowledge contributions that have:
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strengthened how decisions are shaped through engagement
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supported inclusive and respectful processes
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created lasting impact within communities
This is a moment where the field comes together to recognize its own work, its progress, and its shared direction.
The Tone of the Evening
The Gala is designed to feel welcoming and grounded.
It is refined without being formal, and thoughtful without being distant.
It creates space for people to show up as they are, to connect with others, and to be part of a shared experience that carries into the days that follow.
Planning for the Evening
Full details for the evening will continue to be confirmed, including timing, event flow, and additional elements of the experience.
The Gala takes place at the
Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Vancouver
on October 1, 2026.
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Check back soon for updates as the evening continues to take shape.