Theme: TEDxCapilanoU: Stepping into the Unknown

Join the Capilano University Alumni Association in partnership with the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, as we explore how stepping into the unknown can unlock creativity, purpose, and deeper connections to ourselves and the world around us.

This inspiring event features keynote speaker Dianne Whelan, CapU alumna and award-winning filmmaker, photographer, and author. As the first person to complete both the land and water routes of the 24,000 km Trans Canada Trail, Dianne’s journey—captured in 500 Days in the Wild—is a powerful reminder that life’s greatest lessons often lie in the uncharted.

In addition to our keynote speaker, TEDxCapilanoU proudly showcases voices from our own community, including CapU alumni, students, and instructors, sharing their unique perspectives on embracing the unknown.

Limited Spots Available—register now to be part of this unforgettable evening!

Only 100 seats available on a first-come, first-served basis.

TEDxCapilanoU 2024 sold out quickly—secure your spot today!

Blue Shore Theatre, Capilano University
2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver
North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7J 3H5
Canada

Ashleigh Davies

Early Childhood Educator, Head Coordinator, Burnaby Continuing Education (ECE program)

Ashleigh Davies is an early childhood educator, having received her bachelors in ECCE from Capilano University. Ashleigh is the head coordinator of Burnaby Continuing Education's ECE program, previously working as post-secondary instructor and the North Shore Municipal Child Care Consultant. She presents workshops to educators throughout Canada on a variety of topics relating to equity & inclusion in education. She can be found online as Pedagogyandchill.

Dianne Whelan

Filmmaker, photographer, author and multimedia artist

Dianne Whelan, award-winning Canadian Documentary filmmaker, and accomplished photographer, artist, storyteller, author and public speaker. Dianne has written, directed, and produced two award winning films, a three-part series for CBC, a Gemini-nominated interactive website, written two books and has exhibited her photographs in numerous art galleries in her 30-year career as an artist and storyteller. In August 2021 she completed the land and water trails of the 24,000 km Trans Canada Trail and is the first person and woman to do so. The journey is the subject film project 500 Days in the Wild and will be the story of her next book. Her feature documentary 40 Days at Base Camp was shot on Mt. Everest and is accompanied by her book about her Everest experience called, Base Camp:40 Days on Everest. Dianne's book, This Vanishing Land, is based on her experience filming in Canada's High Arctic called, This Land (NFB).

Kristine Thody

Career, Life, and Leadership Coach

Kristine is a certified coach with 24 years of experience helping leaders worldwide transform their lives and careers. She trained with the Co-Active Training Institute (CTI) and holds certifications from the International Coaches Federation, along with being a Certified Relational Trauma Coach. Kristine has earned numerous accolades, including Leadership Development Coach of the Year (2023) and Most Empowering Keynote Speaker & Coach (2024) by Acquisition International. Kristine co-hosts Embrace The Squiggle, a top-ranked podcast sharing authentic career stories, and works internationally, helping clients lead with authenticity. Her past roles include nearly a decade at UBC Sauder School of Business, where she supported thousands of graduates. Now running her own coaching practice, Kristine works globally, helping clients in various industries achieve success. Outside of coaching, she enjoys cycling, traveling, and spending winters in California with family and friends.

Ramin Shadmehr

Dean, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Capilano University

Dr. Ramin Shadmehr is a visionary leader, technical artist, educator, scholar and technology entrepreneur. He spearheaded transformative initiatives at Capilano University, including establishing the first Unreal Authorized Training Center in Western Canada. Ramin is also a technology entrepreneur and founder of Techies of Tomorrow, a program focused on providing mentorship and training to support underrepresented groups in the technology sector. His research explores the use of virtual reality in education and training for autistic individuals, showcasing his commitment to inclusive practices. Ramin is a strong advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in education and is currently a sitting member of the Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Council at the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade. He believes in the power of the arts to transform lives and communities, and, hence, has been a great supporter and advocate for the arts and art education.

Zoran Dragelj

Filmmaker, Videographer, Artist

Zoran Dragelj is an independent, award-winning filmmaker from Vancouver, BC, and a graduate in Fine Arts – Film & Video from the Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design. His career, focused on video production and motion pictures, grew from his extensive work with these mediums during his studies. Early on, Zoran won first prize in BC Dairyland's "It's Cool to be Yourself" contest and was mentored by cinematographer Don Hunter. He received the Joseph Golland Award in 1994 and had early works like When You Get Old (1995) and Moving Plates (1996) screened at top film festivals. Moving Plates aired on ZedTV and earned worldwide distribution. Zoran also curated Aboriginal Kaleidoscope, directed UNICEF’s PSA, and co-founded Blitzcinema Entertainment. His films have been exhibited globally, including in Florence, New York, Toronto, and Berlin. His 2019 feature Friends Like These won major awards and is streaming on Amazon Prime and other platforms.