2024 Agenda

Join GenWell founder, Pete Bombaci, and other early birds as we get connected face-to-face before we head over to catch the Vancouver premiere of "Join Or Die".

Registration Teck Gallery, Simon Fraser University - start your conference journey or just check in with your tickets for the showing of Join or Die".

Following the screening of Join or Die, join us for a 30-minute panel discussion featuring Pete Bombaci, Michelle Hoar, and Dr. Kiffer Card as they discuss key themes from the film surrounding the importance of human connection in modern society.

Join other attendees for a casual breakfast and start building the connections that make us all happier and healthier and add value to your conference experience.

Don't miss the opening remarks from GenWell founder and CEO, Pete Bombaci, as he lays out the eight-year journey of GenWell, Canada's Human Connection Movement and welcomes conference attendees to Canada's Human Connection Conference, the only conference of its kind in the world.  A confernece that brings together researchers, social connection practitioners, people with lived experience of loneliness and the power of human connection that helped them cope and overcome challenges. This conference will be a great opportunity for people to learn more about the power of human connection and recognize the opportunity that we have in coming together and sharing how, together, we will build the more connected Canada and world where everyone thrives.

Dr. Kiffer Card will unveil the forthcoming Canadian Social Connection Guidelines, the first comprehensive framework of its kind in the world. These groundbreaking guidelines, rooted in four years of rigorous research from the Canadian Social Connection Survey, represent a significant advancement in understanding and fostering social well-being. Dr. Card will explore the profound insights and data that shaped these guidelines, highlighting their potential to redefine how we approach social health at both individual and societal levels.

Michelle Hoar and Madeleine Hebert will delve into the powerful intersections between housing, health, and well-being, illuminating the critical role that housing plays as a social determinant of health. This presentation will explore how housing can be thoughtfully designed and programmed to foster meaningful social connections among neighbors, build community resilience, support older adults to age in place, and prepare collectively for emergencies—from public health crises to climate events. Michelle will underscore the importance of a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach, inviting researchers, housing professionals, non-profits, urban planners, design experts, and public health practitioners to recognize and embrace their essential roles in this transformative work.

Dr. John Oliffe will present a compelling exploration of the complex interplay between masculinity, mental health, and social connection. Drawing on extensive research, Dr. Oliffe will shed light on the unique challenges men face in navigating social expectations and mental well-being. He will discuss the profound impacts of social isolation and disconnection on men's health, offering insights into effective interventions and strategies for fostering meaningful social bonds. This presentation aims to reframe the narrative around men's mental health and social connection, emphasizing the transformative potential of empathy, understanding, and community engagement.

Lunch

The Dove Program Cape Breton offers an inspiring journey into the power of self-acceptance, lived experiences, and community connection. Originally designed as a six-week initiative, the program has grown into a thriving community for young girls, driven by their desire for a safe space to discuss the issues that matter to them. Through projects like fundraising for the Cape Breton Cancer Center and supporting children in the local hospital, these young leaders are shaping a brighter future for their community. This session will explore the transformative effects of fostering empathy, resilience, and social responsibility in today’s youth.

Join this powerful discussion with four leading voices in public health in British Columbia. 

• Dr. Bonnie Henry, Provincial Health Officer of BC, 

• Dr. Sandra Allison, Public Health and Preventive Medicine Specialist and Family Physician, 

• Dr. Ariella Zbar, Executive Medical Director and Medical Health Officer, Population and Public Health, Fraser Health Authority

• Dr. Shannon Turner, Executive Director Public Health Association of BC. 

Moderated by GenWell founder, Pete Bombaci, this conversation will delve into the vital role of social connection and community building in enhancing the health and well-being of citizens in British Columbia and Canada at large. The panel will explore why social connection has historically been overlooked as a component of public health, and discuss the initiatives currently underway to address the growing divide in our society. The discussion will also shed light on the profound impacts of fostering a more connected society and outline a visionary path toward a more connected province and country through the perspectives of these leading public health experts.

Janet Omstead will introduce the transformative RED January Movement, an initiative originally launched in the United Kingdom, dedicated to encouraging people to engage in physical activity collectively rather than in isolation. Janet will present compelling research and insights into the profound impact that shared physical activity can have on mental well-being, social connection, and overall health. This session will not only enlighten attendees on the science and benefits of getting active together but will also put knowledge into practice—inviting all participants to move together in an energizing and unifying experience. Expect a session that is uplifting, engaging, and a testament to the power of community through movement.

A chance to get up, stretch, and mingle with fellow conference attendees!

Pharmacies, often perceived as mere dispensaries of medication, are reimagined in this presentation as vital community hubs that play an upstream role in illness prevention through fostering human connection. By leveraging their accessibility and the trusted relationships they hold within communities, pharmacists can actively engage in educating individuals on the profound health benefits of social connection, thereby preventing the onset of isolation-related illnesses and crises. This talk will explore how pharmacies can implement proactive programs and services that address social isolation and loneliness, particularly among vulnerable populations. By embracing this broader role, pharmacists not only contribute to strengthening the healthcare system but also play a crucial part in creating a more connected, resilient, and inclusive Canada. This presentation will showcase how pharmacies, as pillars of community health, can be instrumental in building the bridges needed for a more interconnected society, aligning with the broader conference theme of innovative solutions for a more connected nation.

In an engaging fireside chat, Pete Bombaci and  Canadian Conscious Rapper Tanin Shunter will delve into the story behind the creation of "Rise Again," a song inspired by GenWell and the many organizations around the globe that are working to build a more connected world one face-to-face conversation at a time. Tanin will share the creative journey that led to the powerful lyrics and music, highlighting the power of rallying the world around a common goal and vision. As they debut the "Rise Again" music video, Pete and Tanin will discuss how the song encapsulates the spirit of coming together, encouraging attendees and viewers to unite and embrace the movement of rising again through human connection.

Heli and Andrew will conclude the day's proceedings by summarizing the key insights and opportunities emerging from the first day of the conference. They will also provide guidance on the end-of-day social activities, offering participants the chance to engage further in meaningful discussions, deepen connections, and prepare for the upcoming sessions on day two with this remarkable community.

Join your fellow Canadian Human Connection Conference attendees for a couple of hours of human connection, eats and treats.  We have a special guest joining us for a few laughs at ourselves and the world around us, digest the day's speakers and information and prepare for another incredible day on day two.

The evening reception will be held at -  Mahoney’s Tavern Vancouver Convention Centre, 1055 Canada Place,#36

Join other attendees for a casual breakfast and start building the connections that make us all happier and healthier and add value to your conference experience.

Don't miss this impactful keynote from Guy Felicella, as he shares his journey of overcoming addiction on the streets of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. He will reveal how the support of one person, and ultimately many others, played a vital role in his path to recovery.

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Guy Felicella grew up in a middle-class home in British Columbia but due to trauma, undiagnosed ADHD and difficulty at home and school, he fell into addiction at a young age. Guy spent 30 years in the repeated cycle of gangs, addiction, treatment, and jail.

He spent nearly twenty years residing in a two-block radius in Vancouver’s notorious Downtown Eastside. Miraculously, with sheer determination and the help of others through harm reduction and recovery, Guy managed to survive the HIV/AIDS crisis in the DTES, two decades of being homeless, multiple life-threatening bone infections, and six drug overdoses.

Today, Guy has escaped the grips of the turmoil that kept him suffering and currently resides with his wife and three young children with over a decade of recovery and sobriety under his belt.

Guy is passionate about advocating for the vulnerable people who still suffer with addiction/mental health and is adamant about educating communities on the importance of a full spectrum of care from harm reduction to recovery and to eliminate the stigma that exists around drug addiction.

Global Commission on Social Connection Update

In this session, we explore a transformative framework for fostering a culture of courage within teams and organizations. Through four key stages, participants will learn how to create environments where individuals feel safe to challenge the status quo, share bold ideas, and advocate for positive change. Attendees will gain practical strategies to empower people to speak up, embrace vulnerability, and drive innovation. This presentation offers leaders and teams the tools needed to cultivate meaningful connections that inspire courage and fuel organizational growth.

Lunch

As an 18-year traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivor, Mike offers a unique perspective on the power of social connection in recovery. With unwavering support from his father, Bob, who has walked beside him throughout this journey, they bring valuable insights into the daily challenges faced by TBI survivors. Drawing from their involvement with "The Tri Cities Brain Injury Support Group," they will explore the significance of community, the heightened risk of isolation for brain injury survivors, and the vital role of connection in promoting well-being and progress. Join us for this inspiring session and discover how the power of connection can uplift, empower, and transform lives!

Billions of people across the globe have 24/7 access to others through their smartphones, including text messaging and social media platforms. However, research examining the potential for digital communication to boost social connection and reduce loneliness remains mixed.  This talk will: (a) review the latest research on this topic, (b) explain why blanket media statements about the health risks of online communication need to be interpreted with caution and (c) consider how online groups may be particularly valuable for those who are socially isolated and lack in person support.

This presentation offers an in-depth analysis of the relationship between coworker interactions, network diversity, and loneliness. Drawing on quantitative survey data and qualitative focus group insights, the session examines how social time with coworkers affects emotional and social loneliness, while highlighting the critical role of diverse social connections. The findings reveal that general sociability and varied social networks are more protective against loneliness than interactions with any single group. Attendees will learn strategies to foster meaningful workplace relationships and balance social interactions for improved emotional well-being.

This presentation delves into the development and implementation of a sustainable social prescribing program aimed at alleviating loneliness and isolation among seniors. By forging strategic partnerships with municipal bodies, health authorities, and universities, the program offers a holistic approach to enhancing the well-being of older adults. Attendees will gain insights into the collaborative processes, the challenges faced, and the significant positive impacts observed among participants. This session underscores the transformative power of community engagement and cross-sector collaboration in addressing social determinants of health.

In an era of increasing loneliness and isolation, placemaking offers a revolutionary approach to fostering social connection and community cohesion. This presentation explores how transforming everyday spaces into vibrant, inclusive hubs can strengthen social ties and promote well-being. Drawing from innovative Canadian examples, including projects from ActivateYourNeighbourhood.ca, attendees will discover practical, low-cost strategies to "hack" their own neighbourhoods. Learn how placemaking can build the social infrastructure needed to create thriving, connected communities, in line with the conference’s theme of “Building Bridges.”

In a diverse nation like Canada, social eating has the potential to bridge cultural divides and foster a sense of belonging. This presentation will explore findings from a mixed methods study, including data from the 2023 Canadian Social Connection Survey and focus groups, highlighting the role of shared meals in enhancing social bonds, improving well-being, and promoting inclusivity. Attendees will gain insights into the health and social benefits of social eating, while also learning practical recommendations for organizing inclusive events that celebrate cultural diversity and strengthen community resilience.

Join us for Connection in Action, a dynamic wrap-up activity that brings the power of connection to life! Reflect on key takeaways, engage in meaningful group discussions, and make a commitment to stay connected beyond the conference. Let’s turn insights into action and take this energy forward!