Regional Event 2026 - Western Canada

Friday, February 27th

Preliminary Program

Updated January 25 - still subject to change

9:00: Light Breakfast + Networking Mixer (informal meet-and-greet)

9:30 - Welcome and Icebreaker

Speednetworking

10:00 - Keynote - Health Interventions

Jean Buckler, Associate Professor, Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education (University of Victoria)

11:00 - Campus Tour

12:00 - Lunch

1:00 - Afternoon Workshop

2:00 - Panel: Career Pathways in Health Innovation

Focus on non-linear careers, navigating interdisciplinary work, and building networks and collaborations

3:00 - Elevator Pitch

Five-minute pitch sessions - Mentees presenting their research followed by a short question period

4:00 - Closing Remarks & Networking Invitation, with drinks

5:00 PM Downtown Network Event (optional)

Light social gathering downtown (pub, café, brewery, or lounge) to continue conversations and form collaborations

Event Organizer: 

Sam Liu, PhD (Cohort 2 Academic Mentor)

Associate Professor in Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education at the University of Victoria and 2025-26 CBITN Western Regional Lead

LOCATION AND ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION

Accessing the venue:

The easiest route to campus is either by taxi/Uber or by bus. 

By bus, it is advised to download the UMO app for easy online payment and access to bus lines. A day pass fare is $6, and a 1-way fare is $3 which can be paid via the UMO app or in cash (no change will be given). We suggest a day pass as you will be travelling back downtown in the evening. 

Any bus route labelled for UVic will take you to the venue. Lines #4, 11, 14, 15 are the nearest to the Marriot Inner Harbour. 

The last stop for each bus route will lead to the main bus terminal so no need to remember which stop to get off at – just ride the line to the end. The walk to the University Club from there is 10 mins. Attached is a direct walk route but there are many maps located around campus as well. 

Accommodation recommendation:

The Marriot Inner Harbour is currently offering a special rate on their bookings for the duration of the event. The last day to book at this rate is Monday February 2nd, 2026.

  • Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour, 728 Humboldt Street Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, V8W 3Z5 - Directions 

  • Book your stay 

  • Special rate valid for bookings from February 26 to February 28.  

  • Reservation Guarantee: Attendee reservations are guaranteed by the individual. Individuals will pay all charges. Please ensure you have a valid photo ID and credit cards for incidentals. 

  • Cancellation Policy: First night’s “Room & Tax” will be charged if cancellations are received 3 days or less prior to arrival, or for any no-show reservations. 

  • Marriott Bonvoy Attendee Benefits: As an added benefit the Marriott Inner Harbour is giving attendees access to their perks through the Marriott Bonvoy App during their stay.