RISE with OQCC

RISE Networking Event

Resources for Inclusive & Sustainable Enterprises

RISE with pride with us on March 10! This event brings together queer organizations, professionals, and entrepreneurs to share resources and build relationships in a welcoming space. RISE takes place the evening before the CQCC DEFY Conference, designed as a pre-DEFY queer networking gathering where attendees can connect and meet others beforehand.

Held in recognition of Trans Day of Visibility, RISE will feature a keynote from Fae Johnstone, Executive Director of Queer Momentum.

What’s happening

• Mini trade show featuring queer organizations and service providers
• Keynote by Fae Johnstone
• Open networking reception

Event details

Date: March 10
Time: 6:00–9:00 PM
Location: 130 Queens Quay East, unit 4r Toronto, ON

Across from Sugar Beach

Host

Andrew Charles Edwards (ACE) is a seasoned host and community builder known for bringing warmth, humour, and ease to every event. As co-founder of designACE, he works with founders and purpose-driven teams to grow with clarity on LinkedIn. He also serves as a Futures Innovation Partner at OCAD U CO and sits on the board of the Mobile Giving Foundation Canada.

He also serves as a Futures Innovation Partner at OCAD U CO and sits on the board of the Mobile Giving Foundation Canada and is Vice-chair of the Gilbert Centre.

Venue Sponsor

OCAD U CO is the Futures Design Studio of OCAD University. Through programs like our Design Critique Lab and Human-Centred AI course, we help founders uncover UX blind spots, strengthen product-market fit, and adopt AI responsibly to build resilient, future-ready businesses.