A one-day summit for leaders & professionals at the edge of innovation
Themes being explored:
Leading Through Market Disruption
Mindsets and tools for navigating uncertainty, unlocking alignment, and sustaining high performance in evolving markets.
Trust as a Design System
Building transparency, explainability, and user confidence into products that rely on intelligent and autonomous systems.
Brand, Community, and Growth
How to combine cultural relevance, community building, and operational discipline to grow enduring brands.
Mastering the Product Lifecycle
Practical frameworks to guide digital products from early discovery to scaled, high-impact execution in an AI.
The Future of AI Agents
How autonomous agents and large language models are reshaping software, workflows, and human–computer interaction.
and more...
Speakers:
Adam Cooper
Chief Technology Officer
Adam Cooper is the Chief Technology Officer at McDonald’s Canada, where he leads the company’s technology strategy to enhance digital experiences across customer, crew and operational platforms. He focuses on driving innovation, improving reliability, and implementing scalable tech solutions that support growth and elevate the McDonald’s experience for Canadians.
Laura Pearce
Head of Marketing
Laura Pearce is Head of Marketing at Google, where she leads strategic marketing initiatives that elevate the brand and drive meaningful engagement with global audiences. She focuses on shaping clear, compelling narratives and integrated campaigns that connect Google’s products and mission with people around the world.
Polly D’arcy
VP, Design
Polly D’arcy is VP of Design at Wealthsimple, where she leads design strategy to create clear, accessible financial experiences across the platform. She focuses on human-centred design and cross-team collaboration to help shape products that make managing money easier, more intuitive, and more empowering for customers.
Brennan Loh
VP, Brand
Brennan Loh is the VP of Brand at Shopify, where he leads the development and execution of global brand strategy. He focuses on shaping cohesive, impactful brand experiences that connect with audiences, strengthen Shopify’s identity, and support the company’s growth in a dynamic global market.
Jennifer McCuaig
VP, Experience
Jennifer McCuaig is the VP of Experience at BrainStation, the global leader in digital and AI skills training for teams of professionals with locations in New York, London and Toronto. BrainStation works directly with industry leaders to design and deliver innovative training programs that equip professionals with the in-demand skills needed to succeed in today’s technology-driven economy and has certified over 35,000 professionals to date.
Speakers from Past Events
Our stage hosts senior leaders from global brands who are driving innovation at scale.
Anna Baird
Chief Customer Officer, Generative AI GTM
You wouldn’t think of brand leadership as a technical discipline. Anna Baird unpacked how generative AI is reshaping the way organizations engage customers, make decisions, and scale trust. Drawing from boardroom experience at Google, she highlighted the importance of emotional intelligence, responsible AI, and human-centred thinking as the true differentiators in an AI-powered era.
Allen Lau
Co-Founder
Building an enduring company often means resisting the pressure to chase an exit. Allen Lau reflected on a decade of growing Wattpad by prioritizing fundamentals, community, and long-term thinking over short-term outcomes. Drawing from the journey to a $660M acquisition, he shared how founder-led leadership, reinvention, and optionality create companies built to last.
Sarah Chapman
Chief Marketing Officer & Head of Digital & Customer Centricity
Trust isn’t something that can be automated. Sarah Chapman unpacked how AI is reshaping customer experience at scale while keeping humanity at the core. Drawing from Manulife’s global perspective, she shared how adaptability, responsible innovation, and purpose-led leadership are redefining growth, trust, and long-term value in an AI-driven world.
Dasha Sivkov
VP, Product & Content Marketing
Growth happens when product, content, and customer insight move in sync. Dasha Sivkov shared how Wealthsimple connects these disciplines to build trust, clarity, and momentum in complex financial products. Drawing from fintech and marketing panels, she highlighted how storytelling, customer-first strategy, and disciplined execution drive meaningful growth at scale.
Alfredo C. M. Tan
Chief Digital & Information Officer
You wouldn’t expect luxury to be driven by algorithms. Alfredo C. M. Tan shared how AI is accelerating creativity without compromising brand intuition at Canada Goose. Drawing on experience from Silicon Valley to global retail, he explored how data, design, and responsible technology can work together to elevate omnichannel experiences while protecting the soul of an iconic brand.
Laura Stanley
Chief Operating Officer at Pexels (Canva)
Great creative ecosystems are defined by how well they serve the people behind the work. Laura Stanley explored how Canva and Pexels support creators through product design, global partnerships, and community-first strategy. Drawing on her experience at the intersection of content and technology, she shared how empowering artists at scale shapes inclusive visual culture and lasting impact.
Relive the moments from past events.
An Exceptional Lineup: Coming Soon
We're hand-picking the voices that will define this Horizon event. Register early to be the first to know and stay ahead of the curve.
The full schedule will be announced soon.
Horizons Experience
An evening designed to inspire, connect, and challenge the
world’s
most innovative leaders.
Exclusive Panels
Conversations with senior executives from leading global
brands.
Curated Audiences
Attend alongside hand-selected senior leaders.
Elevated Networking
Cocktails, conversation, and connection.
Details of the Day
Event Schedule
1:30 PMCheck-in Opens
2:00 PMSessions Begin
3:40 PMBreak
4:00 PMSessions Resume
5:20 PMFeatured Keynote
5:50 PMWrap-up & Networking
Who Should Attend
Horizons is designed for senior leaders and builders shaping the future of AI, digital products, and modern organizations. This invitation-only summit brings together those operating at the intersection of technology, strategy, and growth.
What's Included
Gourmet Light Refreshments – Enjoy a curated selection of artisanal bites and small plates, perfect for connecting with colleagues.
Settle in for easy conversation and good company in a warm, welcoming space. With a thoughtful selection of beer and wine on hand, it’s the perfect backdrop for winding down or catching up.
Have dietary restrictions?
To ensure we can accommodate your dietary needs, please inform us at least 48 hours before the event date.
Until the Horizons Event
Want to Bring your Team?
Book a call for your organization with enterprise packages built
for teams—giving leaders the insights to shape the future of digital.
Located near Front St. West and Spadina Ave. at The Well, right next to the Indigo.
Entering The Building
Look for Quantum Coffee, enter the building, and follow the signs to the elevators.
Once You're Inside
Take the elevator to the 2nd floor. Our staff will be there to greet you at the campus reception.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Horizons, and who is it for?
Horizons is a semi-annual summit created by BrainStation to explore the most relevant ideas shaping technology, design, and business today, and to anticipate what’s coming next. Each edition convenes a curated group of executives and digital leaders for deep discussions, shared insights, and meaningful connections in an intimate, high-impact format.
How long is the event and what does the schedule look like?
Horizons is a single evening event featuring keynote talks, panel discussions, and a networking reception. The full program typically runs for several hours, with doors opening before the main sessions begin.
How do I register?
You can register and secure your ticket by following the prompts on the page. You'll receive a confirmation email with your ticket once your registration is finalized.
What is included with my ticket?
Your ticket includes access to all talks and programming, the networking reception, and premium food and drinks throughout the evening.
Will the sessions be recorded or streamed online?
No, Horizons is an exclusive, in-person event. No recordings or livestreams will be made available.
Are group registrations or team passes available?
Group attendance is supported and teams are welcome. If you need multiple tickets, please reach out and the event team can assist with coordinating registrations.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, modern professional or business casual attire is required.
Will there be opportunities to network with speakers or other attendees?
Yes. Horizons includes dedicated networking time where you can connect with speakers, industry leaders, and fellow attendees.
Are there speaking opportunities?
We are always looking for industry leaders to share their insights. If you or someone you know would be a good fit, please contact our events team with a bio and proposed topic.
Horizons Global Events
A connected global experience. Horizons brings top industry voices
together to deliver powerful perspectives and real-world learnings across the world.
Horizons New York: AI + Digital Innovation
New York
New York, New York
Thu, Apr 30, 2026 | 2:00 PM
Book a call for your organization with enterprise packages built
for teams—giving leaders the insights to shape the future of digital.
Horizons
AI + Digital Innovation
Thu, Mar 26, 2026|2:00 PM - 6:00 PM EDT
BrainStation Toronto
482 Front St W, 2nd Floor
Toronto, Ontario
Request tickets to access early bird pricing!
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