The pandemic presented challenges felt on a global scale, revealing many areas of Canada’s support systems that need attention and investment. Our final session of Accelerate 2022 was moderated by Teresa Marques and included the following panelists: Jennifer Brennan, Sara Wilshaw, Mark Beckles and Paul Davidson.

From crisis to recovery post-pandemic

The many inequities that were revealed during the pandemic can also be opportunities for growth, to build a stronger and more inclusive Canada.

Taking initiative was a key theme in the discussion, as well as recognizing areas that need attention and approaching them with boldness. As we look to renew our society and economy post-pandemic, one of the main questions we can ask ourselves is: How can we envision a better Canada with this opportunity?

“Canada, in 10, 15, 20 years, will look like ‘X’. I think if there is an opportunity, it is to define what that ‘X’ is.” – Mark Beckles

Inclusion in the future of innovation

The pandemic shed light on marginalized communities that felt the impacts of COVID-19 harder than others and highlighted a need for more inclusive action in the future.

Discussion touched upon the importance of moving away from individualism in times of crisis and, instead, moving towards a more equitable society.

Brennan outlined five actionable steps to build a more inclusive future:

• Listen deeply.
• Show up, again and again.
• Invest in capacity.
• Commit to demonstrating how change can happen.
• Take accountability back to the community every step of the way.

The importance of working together

One of the central themes of discussion centered around cross-sectoral collaboration and the community benefits gained when working in partnership.

Davidson noted the present shift from a model of competition to a model of collaboration. He underscored that when Canadians work together, great innovations and achievements can be made.

Universities have been collaborating with and listening to communities to meet their needs. For instance, the Global Skills Opportunity program, which offers international experience to students, was developed in collaboration with universities, government and the private sector.

“We have to build capacity, we have to build institutional resilience and innovation and we have to invest in young people.” – Paul Davidson

Inspiration from our neighbours

Cross-sectoral collaboration can be achieved in many ways, and we can learn from other countries’ example.

Wilshaw discussed how green infrastructure programs in the US and Europe rival the focus that other countries have on science and technology, research, artificial intelligence and global conversations about data and privacy.

She touched upon the pivotal role that universities play in analyzing these issues and how they can help advance Canada on the global stage.

“We’ve shown through a lot of creativity, a lot of ingenuity, and a lot of openness—more so in these last few years‑—so the more we go down that path and engage, we’ll get to some great places. – Sara Wilshaw

Learn more about Accelerate 2022.