Dates
Creating an Inclusive and Welcoming Workplace
A Free Learning Event for Employers – June 19, 2025
Did you know? Over 645,000 Canadians with disabilities who are ready and able to work remain unemployed or underemployed. For employers, this represents an untapped pool of motivated, skilled, and dedicated talent—and a meaningful opportunity to lead the way in building more inclusive and resilient teams. The LRES team is excited to support employers with practical strategies, expert insights, and valuable networking opportunities through WorkWise: A Learning Series with LRES.
This free, half-day event will give attendees the chance to hear from leading voices in diversity and inclusion, gain actionable tools for inclusive hiring and leadership, and explore programs that help build strong, diverse teams.
Date: June 19, 2025
Location: Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Agenda:
- 8:00 a.m. – Networking Breakfast and Registration
- 9:00 a.m. – Keynote Speaker and Panel Discussion
- 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. – Service Provider Tradeshow
- 12:00 p.m. – Boxed Lunch
Keynote and Panel
Keynote Speaker – Sarah Birch
Sarah Birch is a Disability Employment Inclusion Specialist with the Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN). She works with organizations across Ontario to improve accessibility in HR practices and build inclusive hiring pathways. With experience in job development, inclusive recruitment, and national-level campaigns, Sarah brings both professional expertise and lived experience as a queer person with multiple disabilities. A Certified Human Resources Professional, she is a passionate advocate for embedding inclusion into everyday practices—whether at work, in policy, or in community life.
Panel Discussion
A panel of experts will explore the importance of workplace inclusivity, AODA compliance, and the many supports available to employers working to create welcoming environments.
Employment Service Provider Tradeshow
Running throughout the morning, the LRES Service Provider Network Tradeshow will give employers the chance to meet with the LRES network of Service Providers and explore programs that can help build inclusive talent pipelines.
