On October 8 – 9, 2024, UCN Linkages The Pas inspired conversations about northern economic and community development and the transformative technologies shaping our future. The conference brought together forward-thinking participants, businesses, and government officials. This year’s theme was ‘Innovation + Renewal,’.
Shawn Kanungo, a globally recognized innovation strategist, kicked off day one with an electric keynote. His talk pushed the audience to embrace disruption. Kanungo urged businesses and leaders in the North to rethink how they approach challenges, and to leverage emerging AI technologies as a driving force for growth.
Ramy Nassar also spoke on the future of Artificial Intelligence with an interactive keynote. His presentation explored what AI means for the world—and particularly for the future of education in Northern Manitoba. Nassar’s talk was both thought-provoking and cautionary, as he highlighted the ethical responsibilities that accompany AI’s rise and called on the North to embrace these technologies while considering their broader impact.
Ken Coates, a renowned scholar on Indigenous and northern affairs, delivered a candid and inspiring talk on the future of Northern Manitoba to wrap up day two of the conference. Coates provided a sobering yet hopeful analysis of the economic and social challenges ahead, while also highlighting the opportunities that come with a renewed focus on innovation and collaboration in the region. He reminded us that, “Indigenous economic empowerment is the key to the future of the north.”
Conference highlights included presentations from organizations like Tech Manitoba, Canada Infrastructure Bank, and Arctic Gateway Group. UCN’s own Dr. Ramona Neckoway showcased the important work of UCN and Royal Roads University in better understanding the training needs of northern communities.
A panel discussion with Deputy Ministers Jan Forster, Jeff Hnatiuk, Bernadette Preun, and Dana Rudy explored Manitoba’s economic development strategies. A second panel, featuring Mayor Andre Murphy, Paskwayak Business Development Corporation’s Ginger Martin, and Calm Air’s Tara Elder-Young, focused on the challenges and potential of the northern business sector.
Beyond the engaging speaker lineup, Linkages presented a unique networking opportunity. UCN’s Culinary Arts students prepared a delicious meal for the networking dinner, where participants enjoyed the chance to engage with local leaders, a delegation of Manitoba Deputy Ministers and government officials, and representatives from the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC). Their trip north doubled as an Economic Development Tour, adding another layer of opportunity for collaboration and exploration of future projects in the region.
Attendees left inspired, energized, and ready to take on the challenges of Northern Manitoba with new ideas and strengthened connections. UCN Linkages continues to be a critical platform for innovation and collaboration in the North. To find recordings of presentations and keynotes, including Ken Coates, Tech Manitoba, Arctic Gateway Group, and more, click here.
We look forward to continuing the conversation at Linkages Thompson on February 25 – 27, 2025. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of another exciting event!