The Quinte West Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the success of its first-ever Leading Edge Quinte conference after attracting more than 80 business and community leaders to Batawa Ski Hill.
The June 11 event marked a new direction for the Chamber’s leadership programming, replacing a previous virtual format featuring international speakers with an in-person experience focused on local voices and regional connections.
Organizers say the new approach was met with strong attendance and overwhelmingly positive feedback.
The morning featured presentations from local business and community leaders Barbara Yebuga of Josh’s Diner, Theresa Bailey of Starfish Synergies and Dr. Kylie Bragdon of Brag Media. Each speaker shared personal experiences and leadership lessons focused on navigating uncertainty and building resilience in both professional and personal settings.
The event was hosted by Dug Stevenson, Executive Director and Chief Marketing Officer of the Bay of Quinte Regional Marketing Board, who guided discussions and helped facilitate audience engagement throughout the program.
In addition to the presentations, attendees participated in networking opportunities and informal discussions with fellow business leaders from across the Bay of Quinte region.
The event concluded with s’mores around a campfire, creating a relaxed setting for continued conversations and relationship-building.
Quinte West Chamber of Commerce CEO Suzanne Andrews said the event demonstrated the value of bringing local leaders together to share ideas, learn from one another and strengthen regional connections.
The Chamber also acknowledged the support of several sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor the City of Quinte West, along with Quinte Broadcasting, Small Business Centre/Trenval Business Development Corporation, Starboard Communications, National Car Rental and the Quinte Home Builders’ Association.
Organizers say the success of the inaugural event highlights growing interest in locally driven leadership development opportunities throughout the Bay of Quinte region.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
