ICEF Canada 2026

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Start your ICEF experience with the collective intelligence of the room. In this fast-paced, 40-minute "Mastermind" session, we move beyond the handshake to tackle the real-world challenges of 2026. Participants will be seated at mixed tables of educators and agents to engage in a series of "lightning round questions" focused on student success, and the future of the Canadian market. You will leave this session not just with new contacts, but with a toolkit of proven strategies and fresh perspectives to fuel your meetings for the rest of the event.

To keep the energy high, a moderator will announce a new "Prompt" every 5 minutes. Each table is encouraged to ensure both an agent and an educator share their perspective on each question.

While the number of international students around the world is continuing to grow, the sector has become increasingly competitive with a growing number of study destinations catering to the evolving needs of students. High on the list of student concerns is cost of study and it is important for institutions to explore a range of options if they are to attract new students.

In this panel discussion, we look at the growing popularity of so-called “2+2” programmes. These pathway initiatives allow students to study for the first two years in the supportive environment of a specialist college, earning credits along the way. They then transfer to university for the final two years of their course. Such initiatives offer a range of benefits from flexibility - the partner college does not necessarily need to be in the same city, or even the same country, as the parent institution - affordability, and accessibility.

With growing demand for international qualifications — and increasing barriers to physical mobility — institutions worldwide are rethinking how they deliver global education.

The UK has led the way in Transnational Education (TNE), establishing branch campuses, franchised provision, and online delivery models that allow students to earn a foreign qualification without leaving home. As Canada navigates visa caps, market concentration, and recruitment volatility, is it time to build a stronger Canadian TNE strategy?

In this session, Ontario post-secondary leaders explore the realities of establishing and sustaining TNE operations abroad. The panel will examine:

Strategic rationale: why TNE, and why now?
Set-up models (franchise, articulation, branch campus, online)
Cost structures and staffing implications
Brand and intellectual property considerations
Quality assurance and regulatory complexity
Long-term institutional positioning and risk

Is TNE a defensive response to policy shifts — or a long-term pillar of Canada’s international strategy?

The international student recruitment sector has been going through a period of unprecedented change. Even as student demand continues to increase, the factors determining choice are evolving, with issues such as affordability, return on investment, and visa access emerging as key priorities. At the same time, key destination countries such as Canada are facing their own challenges, including a wealth of policy and regulatory changes, as well as the rapidly growing number of competing study destinations.

In this panel discussion, we are joined by a number of agents who share their views on the changing marketplace conditions affecting Canada. Alongside an update on the latest trends impacting the country, we look at the wider factors influencing student decision making. The discussion will address:

What students expect from international study
How the changing policy environment in Canada has affected student interest
How institutions can adapt to the changing market conditions
What the future will look like for international student mobility.

As distinct from a panel session or keynote, the roundtables provide a space for a less-structured discussion but with guidance from an informed specialist. To provide that guidance, each table is led by a host whose role is to moderate and animate the discussion around the topic at hand.

- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.

Roundtables' topics:

Canada’s rural colleges: The advantages of joining a small community - Karen Dancy & Hadija Drummond
The global doctor shortage: How can Pathways solve the recruitment crisis? - Laura Bruno
French language study opportunities: What do Canadian institutions have to offer? - Vanessa Bhola
Making the case for online programmes: How can we make e-learning more attractive for students? - Erhan Erkut
How can we better prepare students for a successful high school experience? - Matthew Raby
How to align institutional practices with evolving student expectations - TBA

- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.

- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.

- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.

- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.

- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.

Canadian public high schools, known for excellence in education (English or French), affordability and a wide array of program options to choose from! This seminar will provide agents with useful information and tools enabling them to identify the best-suited program/destination for their clients/students. Lisa will also share insights which will help to ensure students are well-prepared to have a successful experience in Canada. Agents will also learn about the Canada Course, a professional learning opportunity available at no cost, to help build ‘Canadian’ expertise within agency staff.

Come learn about Languages Canada's solution to PAL scarcity. The Joint Pathway Program (JPP) is a government-approved, IRCC-compliant model to rebuild language-to-academic enrolment pipelines through structured public–private collaboration.

This session is open to agents and institutions alike. This new model developed collaboratively by public institutions and accredited language schools has been vetted by IRCC and was designed to support clear and consistent institutional implementation.

The JPP creates a clear pathway for study permit students which helps agents and language schools navigate PAL scarcity through structured partnerships with public institutions.

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the latest ICEF Agent Voice survey results, offering valuable insights into current trends in student recruitment.

Key topics covered for 2025:

Recruitment expectations & Decision-making factors
Student interest & Visa approval rates
Employability factors
Enrolment challenges & Institutional support
Online programmes
Agency operations & Remuneration

The ICEF Agent Voice survey is conducted annually with ICEF-screened agents from over 100 countries. The survey stands out for its frequency, extensive reach, and detailed insights, comparing the perspectives of agents worldwide. It provides fresh insights into how agents are adapting to and addressing global challenges.

Increasingly, international students are looking for a return on the considerable investment of an international education. In many cases, this means developing valuable skills that will enable them to find employment, either in their country of study or to meet a need back home.

Canada’s highly regarded Polytechnic sector provides students with the ideal blend of theory and practice, enabling them to transfer to the world of work quickly and effectively. Offering a flexible range of programmes and qualification types, they offer a valuable alternative to traditional degree programmes.

In this interview, we explore the advantages of Canada’s Polytechnic system, providing:

An overview of the Polytechnic sector
A brief summary of the types of qualifications available
A list of the advantages and disadvantages a Polytechnic education offers

Join HEM’s exclusive session, led by CEO Philippe Taza, to explore how ChatGPT is revolutionizing admissions and marketing in education. Discover how this AI-powered tool can transform your approach to attracting and engaging prospective students. Learn to craft personalized communications, create impactful marketing content, and leverage advanced data analytics for smarter decision-making. This session will provide practical insights and actionable strategies to enhance your recruitment efforts, improve efficiency, and position your institution as a leader in the education sector.

Learn Canadian is a new, sector-led international campaign that aims to strengthen Canada’s position as a leading study destination in an increasingly competitive global environment. Created in close collaboration with institutions from across the country and international partners, Learn Canadian responds to the clear need for a long-term national positioning effort that aligns storytelling, strategy, and media execution to amplify Canada’s presence internationally.

From shaping the brand platform and creative concept to deploying a multi-channel media strategy across more than 15 international markets, Learn Canadian reflects both strategic discipline and creative ambition.

This session will examine:

Why the campaign was developed
How it was built, and what makes it distinctive
The role of collaboration across institutions, agencies, media experts, and student voices in bringing the platform to life.
The campaign’s long-term objectives
How institutions and agents can leverage the platform to present a consistent and compelling message about studying in Canada

The growth in the number of prospective international students combined with an overwhelming focus on just four study destinations - Australia, Canada, the UK, and the US - resulted in institutions recruiting large numbers of international students. However, such growth comes at a cost, both in terms of resources for the university, and in terms of the student experience.

In this session, we explore how, in the face of increasing competition from emerging study destinations, institutions previously used to high volume enrolments are adopting a more managed approach to student recruitment. With a greater emphasis on support before, during, and post-study, the focus has shifted to providing a high quality experience which, in turn, improves potential outcomes for students. This session not only looks at the rationale for change, but it also provides a range of practical tips for institutions looking to remain competitive in this new era of international student mobility.

Thu • Apr 3014:00 - 14:40Room 1

Sharing industry best practices & insights: Peer-to-Peer exchange

Discussion

Presenter

Vanessa-Sophia Verworn

Vanessa-Sophia Verworn is the Director of Client Experience & Growth for ICEF's USA and Canada team. Over the last decade within the international education space, Vanessa’s background includes recruiting at the secondary education level, where she served as an international admissions officer at a Canadian boarding school, managing a global team that recruited in various regions and developing student markets. Over several years she was active attendee at ICEF who utlizied the (IAS) Agent Network for promoting her school's programs. This gave her a practiced expertise in international recruitment and now works with institutions to build and optimize their agent partnerships for enrollment success. She enjoys guiding ICEF clients to analyze global trends to craft effective international enrollment strategies.

Director of Client Experience & Growth, ICEF

To keep the energy high, a moderator will announce a new "Prompt" every 5 minutes. Each table is encouraged to ensure both an agent and an educator share their perspective on each question.

Thu • Apr 3014:00 - 14:25Room 2

Navigating & preparing for a successful Canadian high school experience

Presentation

Presenter

Michelle White

Retired from managing the international program at Kawartha Pine Ridge DSB in Ontario in June 2025 and currently doing contract work in international education. An active member of CAPS-I for years and served on the Ontario association executive (OASDI) holding leadership roles on sub-committees. Passionate about international education, including hosting students in our home.

Active member, CAPS-I

Presenter

Fred Wilson

Proud to serve as the Administrator of International Education at the Niagara Catholic District School Board, Ontario - Canada, since the start of our program in 2000. Founding member and current past president of OASDI, Ontario Association of School Districts International, providing leadership to 42 public and Catholic School Districts in their international programming. Current Regional Director for Ontario on the CAPS-I Executive. Fred holds a BA in Linguistics, a B.Ed in TESL and a Masters of Education from Brock University.

Administrator, International Education, Niagara Catholic District School Board / CAPS-I

Thu • Apr 3014:30 - 14:55Room 2

PAL constraints? Enrolment pressure? Meet the JPP

Presentation

Presenter

Diego Sanchez

Diego is Director, International Affairs at Languages Canada. He has over 10 years’ experience in the private and public sectors, having worked at Global Affairs Canada and different international NGOs. Past experiences entailed working with education agents, government, associations, and chambers of commerce to organize trade missions around the globe. Diego is fluent in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese and has advanced knowledge of German.

Director, International Affairs, Languages Canada

The JPP creates a clear pathway for study permit students which helps agents and language schools navigate PAL scarcity through structured partnerships with public institutions.

Thu • Apr 3014:45 - 15:25Room 1

Flexible study options: Exploring 2+2 college pathway programmes

Panel discussion

Moderator

Carolyn Bercu

Director, Canada, ICEF

Panelist

ZiPing Feng

ZiPing Feng is a seasoned leader in international education, with over 20 years of experience at Thompson Rivers University (TRU). Currently serving as TRU's Chief International Enrolment Officer, ZiPing holds a pivotal position within the institution's senior leadership, leading a dynamic team of admissions, enrolment, and recruitment professionals. Under his leadership, TRU has continued to emerge as a trailblazer in international education. With a wealth of experience and a passion for excellence, paired with technology-driven operations, ZiPing Feng remains at the forefront of driving TRU's global engagement strategy forward.

Chief International Enrolment Officer, Thompson Rivers University (TRU)

Panelist

Diana Battocchio

With over 30 years in education, I have evolved from teaching second languages to leading marketing and business development, guided by a commitment to clear communication and collaboration. My transition grew from a desire to extend the impact of learning beyond individual courses and into broader institutional strategy. I now focus on conveying our institutional commitment to strong connections and to smooth student pathways from ESL to post secondary, from secondary to post secondary, and across post secondary programs. My approach is collaborative and relationship driven, and I am motivated by strengthening our institutional message by spotlighting the pathways that exist to expand opportunities for learners.

Director of Marketing, Business Development, Coquitlam College

Thu • Apr 3015:00 - 15:25Room 2

Findings from the ICEF Agent Voice survey 2025

Presentation

Presenter

Ross Holmes

Ross Holmes is Vice President, Global Brand Solutions at ICEF, where he leads commercial strategy and revenue growth across ICEF’s global portfolio of service provider clients. He also oversees ICEF’s Market Intelligence division, including ICEF Monitor and ICEF Insights. Ross began his career in international education in 2007, organising student fairs and agent workshops across Brazil and Latin America. After five years, he returned to the UK to help major brands such as HSBC, British Airways, and Harrods develop strategies to engage international students. Since joining ICEF in 2013, Ross has played a central role in connecting education institutions, student recruitment agencies, and service providers around the world.

VP, Global Brand Solutions, ICEF

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the latest ICEF Agent Voice survey results, offering valuable insights into current trends in student recruitment.

Key topics covered for 2025:

Recruitment expectations & Decision-making factors
Student interest & Visa approval rates
Employability factors
Enrolment challenges & Institutional support
Online programmes
Agency operations & Remuneration

Thu • Apr 3015:30 - 16:25Room 1

Beyond recruitment: Is it time for Canada to scale Transnational Education?

Panel discussion

Moderator

Ross Holmes

VP, Global Brand Solutions, ICEF

With growing demand for international qualifications — and increasing barriers to physical mobility — institutions worldwide are rethinking how they deliver global education.

In this session, Ontario post-secondary leaders explore the realities of establishing and sustaining TNE operations abroad. The panel will examine:

Strategic rationale: why TNE, and why now?
Set-up models (franchise, articulation, branch campus, online)
Cost structures and staffing implications
Brand and intellectual property considerations
Quality assurance and regulatory complexity
Long-term institutional positioning and risk

Is TNE a defensive response to policy shifts — or a long-term pillar of Canada’s international strategy?

Thu • Apr 3015:30 - 15:55Room 2

A flexible alternative to university: Exploring the Canadian Polytechnic sector

Interview

Moderator

Anthony Lee

Tony has two decades of experience marketing education to global youth audiences. Formerly the Global Digital Marketing Director at Study Group, where he led teams in Singapore, Shanghai, Sydney, New York and the UK recruiting students for Universities in the USA, Australia and Europe. Before this, Anthony established the digital marketing footprint for INTO University Partnerships. A seasoned platform, channel and technology strategist, Anthony specialises in International digital student recruitment. Anthony has lectured on digital marketing to universities on behalf of The EAIE, the British Council, ICEF, DAAD, CASE and NAFSA. Anthony studied Digital Disruption Strategy at Oxford University and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

CVO, ICEF

Panelist

Chantal Marchand

Chantal Marchand is the International Manager at Red Deer Polytechnic, where she has led global recruitment strategy, agent partnerships, and international pathway development. During her time at RDP, she has played a key role in navigating regulatory change, strengthening institutional partnerships, and advancing admission models that balance access with academic readiness. Her work focuses on improving alignment between student preparation, program expectations, and labour market outcomes. Chantal regularly supports institutional leaders and external partners with strategic insight on international recruitment, policy impacts, and sustainable growth in a complex global education environment.

International Manager, Red Deer Polytechnic

In this interview, we explore the advantages of Canada’s Polytechnic system, providing:

An overview of the Polytechnic sector
A brief summary of the types of qualifications available
A list of the advantages and disadvantages a Polytechnic education offers

Thu • Apr 3016:00 - 16:25Room 2

Transforming admissions and marketing with ChatGPT: Opportunities, strategies and outcomes

Presentation

Presenter

Philippe Taza

Philippe founded HEM in 2008, a digital marketing agency dedicated to helping schools, colleges, agencies, and universities market themselves online. HEM offers expertise and services in lead generation, web design, content development, branding, PPC, SEO, social media, CRM, SIS, and analytics. Currently, HEM serves educational clients across North America, the UK, Europe, and Australia.

CEO, Higher Education Marketing

16:30 - 17:00

Refreshment break

Thu • Apr 3017:00 - 17:55Room 1

International student mobility in 2026: Exploring current sector trends

Panel discussion

Moderator

Craig Riggs

Craig Riggs is the editor of ICEF Monitor, the industry's leading source of market intelligence for international student recruitment, and the publisher of ICEF Insights, an annual magazine focused on the most important trends and issues shaping international education. His work on both publications places him in constant contact with the latest research, best practices, and leading-edge strategies in the field. He has led international marketing for both private and public-sector institutions, is the co-founder of a longstanding consulting practice dedicated to publishing and education, and has more than 25 years’ experience in building international markets. Craig holds a Masters in Publishing and is an adjunct professor at Simon Fraser University.

Editor in Chief, ICEF Monitor

Panelist

Johanna Ziegler

I am an experienced and passionate leader in international education, with over 25 years of expertise supporting students and families on their journey to study abroad. Through my work with Global Horizons USA and High School Experts, I specialize in personalized placements at U.S. and Canadian private day and boarding schools, always focusing on finding the right academic and personal fit for each student. I take a hands-on, relationship-driven approach, working closely with families, partner schools, and host communities around the world. My goal is to create meaningful, life-changing experiences that foster academic success, personal growth, and cultural understanding.

Global Director of Operations and Student Support, High School Experts Canada

Panelist

Yemisi Poju-Babalola

Yemisi Poju-Babalola is a global education and mobility consultant, career counsellor, and human capacity strategist with over 15 years of experience in international education, travel advisory, and people development. She is the Lead Consultant at Dahenric Crest Consult, an EduTravel consultancy providing guidance in study pathways, career planning, relocation advisory, visa support, and global opportunity navigation for students, professionals, and families. A career counsellor, life coach, and customer service strategist, Yemisi works with institutions seeking credible market access and partnership-driven recruitment, while helping individuals make informed decisions about education and mobility.

Lead Consultant, Dahenric Crest Consult

What students expect from international study
How the changing policy environment in Canada has affected student interest
How institutions can adapt to the changing market conditions
What the future will look like for international student mobility.

Thu • Apr 3017:00 - 17:25Room 2

Learn Canadian: A sector-led platform to position Canada globally

Presentation

Presenter

Sabrina Heinekey

Sabrina is an international business leader with over 20 years of experience in strategic communications, investment promotion, and high-level advisory work across government and the private sector. She has led global initiatives in more than 30 countries across five continents, securing multi-million-dollar contracts and advising clients including the UK Government, USAID, Orascom, and Petronas. Her expertise spans public diplomacy, market entry strategy, and brand positioning across sectors such as energy, tourism, media, finance, and international development. She has held senior leadership roles at M&C Saatchi London and IC Publications and has served as CEO of two international award-winning communications firms. She is bilingual, holds a BA (Hons) in Political Science from the University of Ottawa, studied International Relations in Sweden, and completed the Sustainable Business Strategy Certificate at the Harvard Business School.

Director Learn Canadian, Canadian Bureau of International Education

This session will examine:

Why the campaign was developed
How it was built, and what makes it distinctive
The role of collaboration across institutions, agencies, media experts, and student voices in bringing the platform to life.
The campaign’s long-term objectives
How institutions and agents can leverage the platform to present a consistent and compelling message about studying in Canada

Thu • Apr 3017:30 - 17:55Room 2

A new era in international student recruitment: Adopting a managed approach

Presentation

Presenter

Ann MacDonald

Ann MacDonald is the Senior Director of Student Recruitment & Admissions at Dalhousie University, one of Canada's leading U15 research institutions. With almost 25 years of experience in educational management, Ann leads a team of nearly thirty professionals overseeing admissions, recruitment, and events, programs across eight faculties.

Senior Director, Student Recruitment & Admissions, Dalhousie University

Thu • Apr 3018:00 - 18:55Room 1

Roundtable series

Roundtables

Moderator

Vanessa Bhola

I currently serve as National Director, Juniors and Corporate at ILSC Education Group, where I oversee Juniors programs across our three Canadian campuses. My focus is on strong, consistent program delivery and creating experiences that are engaging for students and well-supported operationally. I also lead our Corporate Language Department, working with partners to design and deliver customized language training for professionals. This includes developing programs aligned with workplace needs, supporting client relationships, and identifying opportunities for growth. Overall, I focus on building strong teams, improving processes, and driving sustainable growth while maintaining the quality and care that define our programs.

National Director, Juniors & Corporate, ILSC Education Group

Moderator

Matthew Raby

Matthew Raby is President of the Ontario Association of School Districts International (OASDI) and Executive Director of the Upper Canada District School Board International Education Program. He leads a portfolio supporting more than 300 international students from over 30 countries annually. Matthew is known for advancing student-centered global engagement, including ambassador and global citizenship initiatives that strengthen intercultural understanding in schools. He works closely with international partners to expand access to Ontario’s public education system. At ICEF Toronto, he brings a system-level perspective focused on partnership development, program sustainability, and meaningful student experiences.

President, OASDI

Moderator

Karen Dancy

Karen is the Director of Enrolment Management, Recruitment and Global Partnerships at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology in Alberta, Canada. With extensive experience in international recruitment for public Canadian post-secondary institutions, working for larger universities with 20,000 students to her current role at a smaller, rural college with 2,000 students. Currently, she provides strategic leadership across domestic and international recruitment, admissions, and global partnership development, supporting sustainable enrolment growth and international engagement. Her work aligns closely with Olds College’s priorities in applied education, industry-driven learning, innovation, and advancing global collaboration in agriculture.

Director, Enrolment Management and Global Partnerships, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology

Moderator

Hadija Drummond

Hadija Drummond is the Director of International Education at Medicine Hat College. In this role, she is responsible for progressing international programs related to student and faculty exchange, student recruitment, college internationalization and international student support. Hadija has completed an M.Ed. (TESL) from the University of Alberta and previously held leadership positions in ESL programming and student recruitment at Memorial University’s Grenfell Campus.

Director, International Education, Medicine Hat College

Moderator

Laura Bruno

Laura Bruno serves as Vice President of Student Recruitment, North America, and Dean of Student Enrollment at St. George's University (SGU), where she has led recruitment strategy for the School of Medicine since 2019. In this role, she guides prospective students through every step of their medical school journey, from their first inquiry through enrollment. Laura brings extensive higher education experience, including serving as Assistant Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Strategy and Management at the City University of New York, where she focused on strategic enrollment initiatives within the largest urban public university system in the United States. She also held positions as Associate Dean and Assistant Dean of Enrollment Management at Queensborough Community College, part of the CUNY system. Laura holds a bachelor’s in psychology from New York University and a master’s in social work from Adelphi University. She is passionate about creating opportunities for diverse students from various backgrounds and educational pathways to pursue their dream of becoming physicians, with a particular focus on supporting those who aspire to serve underserved communities.

Vice President of Student Recruitment, North America, and Dean of Student Enrollment, St. George's University (SGU)

Moderator

Prof. Dr Erhan Erkut

Retired University Professor (University of Alberta), Founding President (Ozyegin University), author, speaker

Principal, Ontario International High School

- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.

Roundtables' topics:

Canada’s rural colleges: The advantages of joining a small community - Karen Dancy & Hadija Drummond
The global doctor shortage: How can Pathways solve the recruitment crisis? - Laura Bruno
French language study opportunities: What do Canadian institutions have to offer? - Vanessa Bhola
Making the case for online programmes: How can we make e-learning more attractive for students? - Erhan Erkut
How can we better prepare students for a successful high school experience? - Matthew Raby
How to align institutional practices with evolving student expectations - TBA

14:00 - 14:40Room 1

Sharing industry best practices & insights: Peer-to-Peer exchange

Room 1

Vanessa-Sophia VerwornPresenterDirector of Client Experience & Growth, ICEF

To keep the energy high, a moderator will announce a new "Prompt" every 5 minutes. Each table is encouraged to ensure both an agent and an educator share their perspective on each question.

14:00 - 14:25Room 2

Navigating & preparing for a successful Canadian high school experience

Room 2

Michelle WhitePresenterActive member, CAPS-I

Fred WilsonPresenterAdministrator, International Education, Niagara Catholic District School Board / CAPS-I

14:30 - 14:55Room 2

PAL constraints? Enrolment pressure? Meet the JPP

Room 2

Diego SanchezPresenterDirector, International Affairs, Languages Canada

The JPP creates a clear pathway for study permit students which helps agents and language schools navigate PAL scarcity through structured partnerships with public institutions.

14:45 - 15:25Room 1

Flexible study options: Exploring 2+2 college pathway programmes

Room 1

Carolyn BercuModeratorDirector, Canada, ICEF

ZiPing FengPanelistChief International Enrolment Officer, Thompson Rivers University (TRU)

Diana BattocchioPanelistDirector of Marketing, Business Development, Coquitlam College

15:00 - 15:25Room 2

Findings from the ICEF Agent Voice survey 2025

Room 2

Ross HolmesPresenterVP, Global Brand Solutions, ICEF

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the latest ICEF Agent Voice survey results, offering valuable insights into current trends in student recruitment.

Key topics covered for 2025:

Recruitment expectations & Decision-making factors
Student interest & Visa approval rates
Employability factors
Enrolment challenges & Institutional support
Online programmes
Agency operations & Remuneration

15:30 - 16:25Room 1

Beyond recruitment: Is it time for Canada to scale Transnational Education?

Room 1

Ross HolmesModeratorVP, Global Brand Solutions, ICEF

With growing demand for international qualifications — and increasing barriers to physical mobility — institutions worldwide are rethinking how they deliver global education.

In this session, Ontario post-secondary leaders explore the realities of establishing and sustaining TNE operations abroad. The panel will examine:

Strategic rationale: why TNE, and why now?
Set-up models (franchise, articulation, branch campus, online)
Cost structures and staffing implications
Brand and intellectual property considerations
Quality assurance and regulatory complexity
Long-term institutional positioning and risk

Is TNE a defensive response to policy shifts — or a long-term pillar of Canada’s international strategy?

15:30 - 15:55Room 2

A flexible alternative to university: Exploring the Canadian Polytechnic sector

Room 2

Anthony LeeModeratorCVO, ICEF

Chantal MarchandPanelistInternational Manager, Red Deer Polytechnic

In this interview, we explore the advantages of Canada’s Polytechnic system, providing:

An overview of the Polytechnic sector
A brief summary of the types of qualifications available
A list of the advantages and disadvantages a Polytechnic education offers

16:00 - 16:25Room 2

Transforming admissions and marketing with ChatGPT: Opportunities, strategies and outcomes

Room 2

Philippe TazaPresenterCEO, Higher Education Marketing

17:00 - 17:55Room 1

International student mobility in 2026: Exploring current sector trends

Room 1

Craig RiggsModeratorEditor in Chief, ICEF Monitor

Johanna ZieglerPanelistGlobal Director of Operations and Student Support, High School Experts Canada

Yemisi Poju-BabalolaPanelistLead Consultant, Dahenric Crest Consult

What students expect from international study
How the changing policy environment in Canada has affected student interest
How institutions can adapt to the changing market conditions
What the future will look like for international student mobility.

17:00 - 17:25Room 2

Learn Canadian: A sector-led platform to position Canada globally

Room 2

Sabrina HeinekeyPresenterDirector Learn Canadian, Canadian Bureau of International Education

This session will examine:

Why the campaign was developed
How it was built, and what makes it distinctive
The role of collaboration across institutions, agencies, media experts, and student voices in bringing the platform to life.
The campaign’s long-term objectives
How institutions and agents can leverage the platform to present a consistent and compelling message about studying in Canada

17:30 - 17:55Room 2

A new era in international student recruitment: Adopting a managed approach

Room 2

Ann MacDonaldPresenterSenior Director, Student Recruitment & Admissions, Dalhousie University

18:00 - 18:55Room 1

Roundtable series

Room 1

Vanessa BholaModeratorNational Director, Juniors & Corporate, ILSC Education Group

Matthew RabyModeratorPresident, OASDI

Karen DancyModeratorDirector, Enrolment Management and Global Partnerships, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology

Hadija DrummondModeratorDirector, International Education, Medicine Hat College

Laura BrunoModeratorVice President of Student Recruitment, North America, and Dean of Student Enrollment, St. George's University (SGU)

Prof. Dr Erhan ErkutModeratorPrincipal, Ontario International High School

- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.

Roundtables' topics:

Canada’s rural colleges: The advantages of joining a small community - Karen Dancy & Hadija Drummond
The global doctor shortage: How can Pathways solve the recruitment crisis? - Laura Bruno
French language study opportunities: What do Canadian institutions have to offer? - Vanessa Bhola
Making the case for online programmes: How can we make e-learning more attractive for students? - Erhan Erkut
How can we better prepare students for a successful high school experience? - Matthew Raby
How to align institutional practices with evolving student expectations - TBA

Seminar Programme ICEF Canada