Skip to navigation Skip to content
ibaocon-mask-2

Save the Date IBAOcon | October 21–22, 2026 | Toronto

Time

Session

Location

08:30 AM

Networking Breakfast

Convention Centre

09:00 AM

Members Meeting

Growth & Goals

Convention Centre

Get the latest on IBAO's strategic plans, advocacy wins and upcoming initiatives shaping the future of Ontario’s broker community.

Colin Simpson

IBAO CEO

Shara Bierman

IBAO President

Dario Battista

IBAO Chair

10:00 AM

Networking Break

Convention Centre

10:30 AM

Opening Keynote

Capacity, Clarity & Staying Power

Convention Centre

In a fast-paced industry, how do you stay effective? Burnout prevention expert Melanie Sodka explores the impact of chronic overcapacity and the importance of reconnecting with purpose, people and personal limits. Gain practical insights to manage burnout, set boundaries and build long-term resilience.

Melanie Sodka

Capacity Management Expert

11:00 AM

Ontario Auto Panel

New Coverage, New Conversations

Convention Centre

Big changes are coming July 2026. From optional SABS coverage and consumer choice to compliance risk and client communication, our Ontario Auto panel will explore how upcoming reforms will redefine the value brokers bring their clients.

Mark Abraham

CEO, RIBO

Elliott Silverstein

Director, Government Relations, CAA Insurance

Steve Whitelaw

VP & General Manager Canada, Applied Systems

Rick Orr

Owner, Orr Insurance Brokers

Michelle Dodokin

Head of Auto Insurance Supervision, FSRA

12:00 PM

Networking Lunch

Convention Centre

12:30 PM

Series

BIP Talks

Convention Centre

From M&A trends and climate risk to political change, AI governance and global perspective, our BIP Talks lineup delivers sharp insights on the forces reshaping the broker landscape.

Kenneth Pan

Managing Director & Partner, Dowling Hales

Denise Balkissoon

Executive Editor, The Narwhal

Paul Wells

Political Journalist

Nevina Kishun

CEO, MSA Research

Lauren Nickerson

AI & Litigation Associate, Torys LLP

Rick Da Costa

Partner | National Leader, Corporate & Regulatory Insurance & Reinsurance, BLG

Marisa Coggin

Partner, Dentons LLP

Graeme Trudgill

CEO, BIBA

Peter Braid

CEO, IBAC

02:00 PM

Networking Break

Convention Centre

02:15 PM

Keynote

The Resilient Side of Funny

Convention Centre

Join us for a dose of Canadian humour with comedian, actor and host Gerry Dee, known for his hit sitcom Mr. D and Family Feud Canada. Blending standup with candid conversation, Dee shares behind-the-scenes stories from the classroom, the set and the stage, reminding us that finding humour in everyday chaos isn’t just entertaining—it's the key to staying grounded, connected and resilient.

Gerry Dee

Actor & Comedian

03:00 PM

Spotlight Stage

Convention Centre

Pete Tessier

Host, The Insurance Podcast

Curt Wyatt

Host, The Insurance Podcast

Tradeshow Reception

Convention Centre

A curated tasting journey showcasing the flavours of Niagara. Featuring new activations, dynamic tradeshow zones and pop-up experiences.

05:30 PM

Recharge Break

Hilton Niagara

07:00 PM

Gala Mixer

Fallsview Casino

Kick off the evening’s festivities at our Gala Mixer—refreshments, conversations and a chance to connect. Sponsored by Cassels LLP.

Sponsored by

Cassels

07:30 PM

Awards of Excellence

Fallsview Casino

Honouring this year’s winners with a soulful performance by Leah Canali, bringing energy and heart alongside James Cunningham, whose comedy we know and love.

Leah Canali

Singer & Entertainer

James Cunningham

Comedian & Television Personality