Workshop: Embracing Identity Through Poetry 

Time: 9:30am to 10:45am

About the Workshop:
A poetry workshop for all ages, we will explore our identities through spoken word using various techniques. You can expect writing prompts, space to share and a focus on intersectionality.

About Aaron:

Aaron Hunter has been writing poetry for as long as he can remember, scribbling in the margins in class and memorizing stanzas on bus rides. He is inspired by life's occasions from the mundane to the momentous, the silliness to the sorrows. He is a poet, performer, workshop facilitator, event organizer, visual artist and self proclaimed "goofy guy." His work explores topics surrounding his identity as a transgender man trying to find hope in dark times. He is the founder and Artistic Director of "Tri Cities Poetry" an arts organization dedicated to uplifting both emerging and experienced artists from all different backgrounds. His debut chapbook "The Archives" was self published and released at the end of 2024.

Workshop: Help in Times of Change

Time: 9:30am to 10:45am

About the Workshop:

Any change can cause grief. Even a good change. Learning how to experience the loss without losing ourselves is the key to finding some inner peace. There are several tools one can learn and use in order to grow through the pain of loss.

About Kevin:

Kevin specializes in helping individuals and groups explore, understand, and experience the grieving process that often accompanies change. He has had the privilege of walking alongside many people who are struggling to find support, clarity, and a sense of understanding during difficult times.

Workshop: Live online Forum with a diverse panel of social justice innovators

Time: 9:30am to 10:45am

Virtual Forum Panel:

Pam Rocker - Affirming Connections

Joshna Hirani - SHER Vancouver

Danny Lybbert - Out in Schools Program Manager

Souvik Ray - Program Manager, Believe - YWCA BC

Kim Vance-Mubanga - Director, International Programs and Partnerships -  Egale

Workshop: Finding & Illustrating My Queer Story

Time: 11am to 12:15pm

About the Workshop:

Stacey will share her experience as both a professional artist in over a decade in the animation industry, as well as a children’s book illustrator. She will share about her journey of writing and illustrating her own queer faith story STILL STACE: MY GAY CHRISTIAN COMING OF AGE STORY, which published in 2021. Then she will lead a draw-along for everyone to draw a character from one of her kids books! 

About Stace:

HI, I’M STACE!
I identify as a lesbian woman of faith, an artist, an author & a mom. Call me “Stace”! My pronouns are she/her. Outside of books & animation, I love public speaking about LGBTQ+ and faith issues.

Workshop: Trans Coming Out Journey; Supporting trans kids

Time: 11am to 12:15pm

About the Workshop:

When a young person shares their trans identity, adults in their life often have big feelings. These emotions don’t have to get in the way of showing up for the young person. Join our compassionate, practical, non-shaming workshop to build real, practical skills to support trans and gender-diverse kids.

About Heather McCain (they/them)
Heather is the Founder-Executive Director of Live Educate Transform Society, led by and for people with lived experience of disability, neurodivergence, and 2SLGBTQIA+ identity. Heather is trans, queer, asexual, disabled, and neurodivergent.

Workshop: Rainbow Refugee - History, programs and how you can be involved.

Time: 11am to 12:15pm

About Norma:

Norma Lize Rhayem, a transgender activist and advocate from the SWANA region. Her activism started when she was studying journalism and communication arts, leading to her involvement with LGBTQIA+ organizations in the SWANA region and worldwide. Her lived experience, and work in Media and the Non-profit sector helped her to raise the voice about LGBTQIA+ issues around the world. Since relocating to Vancouver, she continues to fight for the rights of the trans community. She worked as a Sponsorship Coordinator at Rainbow Refugee, a Peer Facilitator at Mosaic, and a co-trainer at QMUNITY. Norma is currently working as a Communications Manager at Rainbow Refugee Society and is working on developing training materials to help raise awareness in workplaces and communities.

Workshop: Navigating gender-affirming care resources for Two-Spirit, trans and non-binary people, their families & communities

Time: 1:30pm to 2:45pm

About the Workshop:

Finding accurate information and connecting with relevant services related to trans health and wellness can be challenging. Lucas Wilson and KJ Kendall from Trans Care BC will be presenting an orientation to resources for transgender, Two-Spirit and non-binary people, their families, caregivers and loved ones to support individuals and their supporters in better understanding supports that are our there and how to access them.

Workshop: Becoming Real: What to Expect in Transition — Without Illusions

Time: 1:30pm to 2:45pm

About the Workshop:

When a young person comes out as transgender or non-binary, families often face uncertainty, hope, and many questions. In this presentation, Lisa Salazar draws on lived experience, research, and spiritual care practice to explore transition, authenticity, and the difference family support can make in building a dignified, livable life.

Workshop: Life at the intersections of Trans Identity, Drag and Clergy? Yes! 

Time: 1:30pm to 2:45pm

About the Workshop:

Evolving identities & faith. Part testimony, part unpacking gender diversity in scripture. Meet me at the crossroads of it all with a whole lot of wonder and amazement!