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Michelle Lee
Mount Royal University
I was born and raised in Hong Kong, one of the world’s busiest cities, and my personal experiences and the values passed down through my family have shaped who I am today. Coming from a background where stability and financial success were emphasized, I initially pursued a career in the real estate industry. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Surveying from the University of Hong Kong, believing that this path would offer a secure future.
However, as I worked in the industry, I realized that my true passion lies in social enterprise and innovation—using my skills to support others and create social impact. This led me to transition into the social enterprise and non-profit sectors, where I found my passion for helping individuals overcome barriers to employment and connect with the community. My journey led me to pursue a Master’s in Social Work, and I became a Registered Social Worker.
Now, settled in Canada, I am thrilled to serve as the Coordinator for StartWork at the Institute for Community Prosperity at MRU. In this role, I support refugees facing multiple challenges to find employment in a new country, helping them navigate the complexities of a new life and thrive in their communities. I am also deeply committed to fostering social enterprise and innovation projects in Canada, particularly in Calgary, as a means to address social challenges and contribute to the collective well-being.
Workshops
Other speakers & attendees

Kira Hunt
Adaptive Ecosystems
Landscape technologist, biomimicry researcher, and artist with a broad range of knowledge that includes urban planning, ecology, biology, design, machining, and mapmaking.
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Barb Rallison
Institute for Community Prosperity / MRU / StartWork
Social innovator, community economic development leader, and impact investor with deep roots in Moh’kinsstsis and Métis-settler heritage, working at the intersection of systems change, equity, and place-based prosperity.
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Laurel Dault
Hollyhock Leadership Institute
Facilitator and lead of Hollyhock's Signature Programming, including Activate, Run for Office, and Social Venture Institute (SVI)
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Michelle Lee
Mount Royal University
Coordinator of StartWork at MRU, supporting refugees and newcomers through inclusive employment and social innovation
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Karina Birch
Rocky Mountain Soap Company, CEO
Karina Birch is the co-owner and CEO of Rocky Mountain Soap Company; a Canadian natural cosmetic brand rooted in purpose and place.
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Philip Lozano
Be Local YYC
Manager of Be Local YYC, with almost 10 years of experience working in social enterprise, with a focus on community and grassroot initiatives
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Brian Hill
TuffHill eBikes
Co-Founder of TuffHill eBikes, locally designed eBikes suited for the Canadian riding environment. TuffHill eBikes takes an inclusive, educational approach as they connect with customers, and advocate with the city for better bike infrastructure.
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Adrienne Furrie
Adrienne Furrie Beauty
Professional makeup artist and beauty brand founder with over 20 years of experience working in beauty, fashion, and business
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Mike Rowlands
Junxion Strategy
President & CEO at Junxion, a firm that for over 20 years has been advising on strategy, sustainability, and social impact for some of the world’s most courageous and generative companies, non-profits, and movements
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Jeff Loomis
Executive Director, Momentum
Jeff Loomis is the Executive Director of Momentum, a Calgary-based community economic development organization that works to reduce poverty by providing training, business development support, and financial empowerment programs.
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Tonya Surman
Centre for Social Innovation, CEO
Tonya Surman is a leading Canadian social entrepreneur and founding CEO of the Centre for Social Innovation (CSI). She’s known for creating visionary ideas, collaborative models, and spaces that drive systemic change. Tonya co-developed the Constellation Model and the Community Bond, which has raised over $10M to support social purpose real estate. Under her leadership, CSI has supported 6000+ changemakers. She also founded Social Innovation Canada, uniting innovators nationwide. Tonya is an award-winning leader recognized by Ashoka, the Trillium Foundation, and others.
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Laura Keating Elske
People & Planet Consulting
Decision strategist, facilitator, and community builder with expertise in structured decision-making
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