Annual Dinner 2026: Dare to Lead

Toronto Talks is where the region's most influential voices take the stage, tackling the big issues and bold opportunities shaping the Toronto region’s future. From game-changing innovation to the next wave of economic growth, these conversations go beyond the headlines: sparking ideas, challenging perspectives, and setting the tone for what comes next.

Laurie May & Noah Segal, Elevation Pictures

Co-Founders and Co-Presidents of Elevation Pictures, Laurie May and Noah Segal have built Canada’s leading independent film company since launching at TIFF 2013. Known for acclaimed releases like The Imitation Game, Moonlight, Everything Everywhere All At Once, Brother, and BlackBerry, Elevation has become a powerhouse in both distribution and production, with recent projects including Anora, The Brutalist, Infinity Pool, and Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery. Featured among Hollywood Reporter’s Top 25 Canadian Entertainment Dealmakers and Toronto Life’s 50 Most Influential People, May and Segal continue to shape the future of film and elevate Canadian storytelling worldwide.

Victor Dodig, CIBC

As President and CEO of CIBC from 2014 to 2025, Victor Dodig led the bank’s transformation into a relationship-driven, modern North American institution focused on sustainable growth and long-term value for stakeholders. A champion for Canada’s competitiveness and inclusive prosperity, he has held leadership roles at UBS, Merrill Lynch, and McKinsey & Company. Victor serves on the boards of the Brookings Institution and Telus Corporation, is Past Chair of the Business Council of Canada, and has been an active advocate for inclusion through organizations such as Catalyst Canada and the BlackNorth Initiative.

The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario

Doug Ford is the Premier of Ontario and MPP for Etobicoke–North, first elected in 2018. A lifelong community leader and successful businessman, he previously served as a Toronto City Councillor from 2010 to 2014, where he helped deliver significant savings for taxpayers as Vice-Chair of the Budget Committee. Doug has also served on the boards of Build Toronto and the Canadian National Exhibition, and as a member of both the Civic Appointments and Government Management Committees.