Talk
Erica Wiebe
Olympic Gold Medalist
The one thing needed to create conditions for success
Erica Wiebe is the 2016 Olympic Champion in the sport of Freestyle Wrestling, an Ivy League MBA graduate, sports commentator, and expert facilitator. She is also a 8x national champion, World University Champion, 2x Commonwealth Games Champion, and 2018 World Championships bronze medalist.
As a passionate advocate for the power of sport, she volunteers her time as a youth wrestling coach, ambassador with Right to Play, and Vice-Chair of the Canadian Sport Institute Alberta board of directors. When not taking people down, commentating on it, and/or coaching someone to do it, she works as a manager of athlete relations, safe sport, and DEI at the Canadian Olympic Committee.
Talk
Dimitrios (Jim) Beis
Pierrefonds-Roxboro Borough Mayor
The power of listening: Building strong communities through engagement
Jim Beis is a long-standing public servant and community leader, known for his significant contributions to sports, recreation, and local governance. He began his career in municipal services as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Roxboro, where he played a key role in developing and expanding recreational programs. Following this, Jim took on the position of Division Head of Sports and Recreation, continuing his work to enhance community sports and leisure activities.
Jim’s dedication to public service led him to enter politics, where he was elected as a Borough Councillor for Pierrefonds-Roxboro. His leadership and commitment to his community quickly advanced him to the position of Mayor of Pierrefonds-Roxboro, a role he continues to hold. During his time as mayor, Jim also served on the Montréal Executive Committee, where he was responsible for Procurement, Sports and Recreation, and Communities of Diverse Origins.
In addition to his political career, Jim has remained deeply engaged in the community as a Governing Board Member at several schools and as a Board Member at On Rock Community Services, a non-profit organization supporting local families. His passion for sports extends beyond his professional work, as he regularly volunteers his time as a coach for both soccer and baseball teams, fostering youth development and community spirit.
Jim’s ongoing commitment to public service and community well-being continues to leave a lasting impact on the Pierrefonds-Roxboro borough.
Talk
Josef Azam
Entrepreneur & Philanthropist
Beyond borders: Healing division in a fractured world
Josef Azam is a Montreal entrepreneur with a genuine story of resilience. Growing up in a family of immigrants, he faced financial struggles and learning difficulties, but his determination led him to become the first in his family to earn a university degree.
He is the founder of Design Shopp International, a digital marketing agency that he built from the ground up over 17 years ago.
Josef is deeply involved in his community. He serves as president of the Riverdale Wrestling Club and Cloverdale Multi-Ressources, and also sits on the boards of YES Montreal and the John Abbott Foundation, always giving back to the causes he believes in.
Talk
Dr. Derek da Costa
Chief Medical Advisor & Consultant; Asst Prof McGill Univ Faculty of Medicine
Life's G-forces: Turning pressure into empowerment
Dr. Derek da Costa is a respected Chief Consultant, Medical Director, and Advisor in Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine at Clinique Médicale En Route in Laval. He is also an active staff member in the Emergency Department at St. Mary’s Hospital and serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Family Medicine at McGill University. Dr. da Costa is extensively involved in academic teaching as an Osler Fellow, preceptor, and mentor for medical students and residents. His work spans across various teaching and mentorship roles, including the Longitudinal Family Medicine Experience (LFME) and Transition to Clinical Practice (TCP) programs, as well as having been involved as an examiner for the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) and Quebec (OSCE) evaluations.
Dr. da Costa is a recognized leader in Continuing Medical Education (CME) initiatives, organizing and moderating numerous events for family physicians, pediatricians, and community health programs. He also contributes to research, including having been involved in the McGill Vaccine Center studies and pediatric research. His dedication to medical education earned him an Award of Excellence in Teaching from McGill University’s Faculty of Medicine.
With over three decades of experience, Dr. da Costa has made substantial contributions to medical education, clinical practice, and research, while actively engaging in community outreach and health advocacy.
Talk
James Mancini
Media Personality, Former Canadian Wrestling Champion, MMA Athlete & Entrepreneur
The unexpected path: How perseverance and failure ignite greater opportunities
James Mancini is a dynamic figure in the world of sports and entertainment. Beginning his career in amateur wrestling, James captured 7 Canadian National titles and proudly represented Canada on the international stage, notably securing a silver medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi. His competitive drive led him to transition into professional MMA, where he continued to make his mark.
Beyond athletics, James has become a versatile media personality, participating in reality shows, radio programs, short films, and podcasts. He has also appeared on TV, commentated on sports, hosted events, and taken on special skills roles in films. Currently, James is the host of The Boom Boom Show on YouTube. In Season 1, he engaged viewers with interviews and commentary on combat sports and pop culture, while Season 2 saw him hit the streets to capture hilarious moments with Montreal’s nightlife scene. Adding yet another layer to his career, James also performs as a stand-up comedian.
In addition to his entertainment ventures, James is a co-owner of Resto Vendetta Bar & Vin, blending his entrepreneurial spirit with his passion for bringing people together.
Talk
Glenn O’Farrell
C.M., LL.B, ICD.D, Corporate Director, Board Chair, CEO & SVP
Restoring kindness and decency: The role of media in shaping a civil society
Transformational leadership with a proven track record of leveraging digital technology and creative partnerships. He has led executive teams in revitalizing, start-up and ongoing operations of media businesses in complex environments. Glenn served as Chair of the Ontario Energy Board, Corporate Director at Le Devoir Inc. on Le Groupe Fair-Play’s Advisory Board and Director at GPO Corp.
A native of St-Malachie, Québec, Glenn studied economics, law, business, corporate governance and data analytics at St. Francis Xavier University, Université Laval, SC Johnson College of Business, Cornell University, Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto and Schulich Executive Education Centre, York University. He is a member of the Order of Canada, the Québec Bar and the Institute of Corporate Directors (and ever-aspiring singer-songwriter).
Host
Taylor Eaves
Client Relations Expert & Sports Event Strategist
Taylor Eaves is an enthusiastic Account Manager with a passion for people, sports, and creating great experiences. As former sports event manager and game host, Taylor led the USports Vanier Cup for two consecutive years, blending professionalism with an infectious love for the game. A Western University alum and devoted dog lover—especially to Dakota and Charlie—Taylor brings energy, connection, and dedication to everything she does, from managing clients to creating unforgettable moments.
More to come
More speakers to come
