Lessons Learned at Cannexus26
When I arrived at Cannexus26 in Ottawa, I’ll admit I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. This was not just because it was my first time attending Canada’s largest career development conference, but it was my first time as Executive Director of Career Professionals of Canada. Add to this, winter decided to make a bold statement with frigid temperatures and record-breaking snow. Living in Northern Ontario teaches you to respect the weather, and as snow followed me from Sault Ste. Marie to Toronto and then on to Ottawa, I had a quiet moment of wondering whether I would make it there at all.
Thankfully, I did, and although some people were delayed, by Monday afternoon it seemed everyone had arrived safe and sound. From the moment the conference began, it was clear that it was going to be something special. I’d love to share the lessons I learned at Cannexus26.
Lesson #1: Affirmation that Career Development is Both Thriving and Vital
Day one unfolded in a blur of energizing conversations, thoughtful insights, and the genuine joy of finally meeting colleagues and friends in person. Many were people I’ve learned from, collaborated with, or followed from afar for years. There is something uniquely affirming about those “you’re real!” moments that remind us how connected this profession truly is.
Representing Career Professionals of Canada at Cannexus was both a privilege and a powerful reminder of why this community, and this work, matter so deeply. Making the experience even more meaningful was the fact that Cannexus was celebrating its 20th year. Attending my very first Cannexus during such a milestone year felt full circle and reinforced my belief in the relevance, impact, and staying power of the career development profession across Canada.
Lesson #2: We Really Are All in This Together
What I love most about this industry is that it is not about competition. It is about collaboration. That spirit was everywhere at Cannexus. Regardless of organization, title, or role, the shared goal was clear: to move career development forward, together, especially in the era of AI. Conversations were generous rather than guarded, curious rather than transactional. It was wonderful connecting with members and colleagues from so many other organizations that make up Canada’s career development ecosystem. Cannexus continues to be a space where silos dissolve, and shared purpose takes the lead.
Lesson#3: Purposeful Kindness is Alive and Well
One of the things that stood out to me most was how much purposeful kindness showed up in both small and meaningful ways. It was there in hallway conversations, thoughtful questions during sessions, warm introductions, and quiet moments of encouragement between peers. This profession leads with care, and Cannexus offered in-person proof of just how human and values-driven our work truly is.
I was especially grateful for the leadership and generosity that helped me feel grounded and welcomed right from the start. I want to offer a heartfelt thank you to Brad Whitehorn, CPC board director, who went above and beyond to support me throughout the conference. From thoughtful introductions to steady behind-the-scenes guidance, Brad exemplified the kind of leadership that strengthens community and lifts others as they step into new spaces. That generosity reflects the very best of CPC and the profession we serve.
Lesson #4: CPC Members are Shaping the Future
It was also incredibly meaningful to see CPC members represented as speakers at Cannexus. While I wasn’t able to attend their sessions firsthand, I heard wonderful feedback about the presentations delivered by our very own Lama Shaath and Shaye Belanger. Their work is a testament to the depth of expertise, thought leadership, and impact found within CPC, and a reminder of the important role our members play in shaping the future of career development.
Lesson #5: Embracing Bustling, Big City Life Came Easily
Much of my time at Cannexus was spent at the CPC Exhibitor Showcase booth, which quickly became a hub for conversation and connection. I was genuinely touched by how many members and colleagues stopped by to say hello, share what they’re working on, ask questions, or simply check in. Those moments matter. They are a reminder that CPC is not just an organization, but a community built on relationships. I am deeply grateful to Britt-Mari Sykes for stepping in at the booth so I could attend a few sessions and fully engage in the learning experience. That kind of mutual support is exactly what makes our association so special.
There were also a few lighter moments that made the experience memorable. Navigating the pace of a big city after life in Northern Ontario, where escalators are far from an everyday occurrence, reminded me just how adaptable we all are. It turns out you can go from small-city calm to conference hustle surprisingly quickly when purpose is pulling you forward.
Lesson #6: Cannexus is Worth Saying “Yes” To
Even with the weather and the whirlwind schedule, I left Cannexus feeling deeply grateful: grateful for the conversations, the learning, and the shared commitment to professional development that continues to move this profession forward.
On a personal note, this trip to Ottawa marked the first time I had travelled without my kids in 12 years. Returning home, I carried not just insights from sessions and conversations, but a quiet sense of pride. I learned that my family didn’t just manage in my absence; they thrived. That realization will stay with me because it mirrors what I experienced during Cannexus.
Again and again, I was reminded that leadership does not mean doing everything alone. It means trusting others, leaning into community, and being willing to ask for support. As motivational speaker Spencer West so thoughtfully shared, great leaders redefine what is possible when they ask for help. That message resonated deeply with me — as a leader, a parent, and a member of this profession.
Cannexus26 was not just a conference. It was a celebration of 20 years of impact and a compelling reminder that when we lead with purposeful kindness, we create space for growth, not just for ourselves, but for one another. That is the kind of leadership I am committed to fostering at Career Professionals of Canada.
If you have not yet experienced Cannexus, I cannot recommend it highly enough. It is a space to learn, to connect, and to be reminded that you are part of something bigger.
I would love to hear from you. How was your Cannexus experience this year? Or, let us know what would you most hope to gain from attending in the future?
– By Skye Berry, Executive Director of Career Professionals of Canada –
Written in collaboration with ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, based on the author’s original ideas.