The ITL Conference & Gala 2025

In today’s increasingly diverse legal landscape, cultural barriers can pose significant challenges to effective communication and collaboration. Join our expert panel as they explore strategies for overcoming these barriers, fostering inclusivity, and building strong professional relationships. Through real-life examples and interactive discussions, attendees will gain valuable insights into how to navigate cultural differences and leverage them for success in the legal profession. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with thought leaders and enhance your professional network.

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• 

  Laurelle A. Harris K.C .

  Director, ITL Program, Equity & Transformation

  University of Manitoba, Faculty of Law
• 

  Myriam Seers

  Partner,

  Agora Law & Past Chair, ICC Canada Arbitration Committee
• 

  Prof. Gideon Christian

  Associate Professor of Law,

  University of Calgary
• 

  Vivek Warrier

  Partner

  Osler

Sponsors

• Networking and exhibitor interactions

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Sponsors

This informative session will bring together law societies, regulators and other stakeholders to discuss the integration of internationally trained lawyers into the Canadian legal system. Panelists will address the challenges faced by these professionals and share insights on existing programs and policies aimed at enhancing their professional development. Attendees will have the chance to learn about best practices, emerging trends, and collaborative efforts to create a more inclusive legal environment.

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• 

  Priya Bhatia

  Executive Director, Professional Development & Competence

  Law Society of Ontario
• 

  Cori Ghitter

  Deputy Executive Director and Director of Policy and Education

  Law Society of Alberta
• 

  Pamela Kovacs

  Senior Policy Counsel

  Law Society of Saskatchewan
• 

  Lesley Small

  Senior Director, Credentials, Professional Development & Practice Support

  Law Society of British Columbia
• 

  Kene Ilochonwu

  Senior Legal Counsel & Bencher

  Woodfibre LNG & Law Society of Alberta

Sponsors

• Buffet lunch

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Join us for an insightful discussion on the Foot In The Door Initiative (FIDI) by Osuji & Smith Lawyers and the Internationally Trained Lawyers Pathway to Employment Program (ITL-PEP) by the Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC). This session will also explore key findings from the ITL Experience Survey in partnership with The Counsel Network (Caldwell) and sponsored by Osuji & Smith Lawyers. 

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• 

  Michael Tam

  Program Lawyer

  Osgoode PD
• 

  Nketti Johnson-Taylor

  Executive Director

  CRIEC
• 

  Juliette Omonigho

  Chair

  Foot in the Door Initiative
• 

  Shetin Adams

  Associate Recruiter

  The Counsel Network, now part of Caldwell

Sponsors

This session addresses the distinct challenges and opportunities that internationally trained lawyers encounter in both private practice and in-house roles. Participants will hear firsthand from accomplished practitioners who will share their personal journeys, offering valuable insights into building a robust client base, navigating firm dynamics, and achieving professional success in diverse legal environments.

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This session is designed for National Committee on Accreditation (NCA) students seeking guidance on navigating the accreditation and articling processes. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the NCA’s requirements and best practices for securing articling positions, including tips for crafting compelling applications and succeeding in interviews. 

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• 

  Deborah Wolfe

  Executive Director

  National Committee on Accreditation and Law School Programs
• 

  Gina Alexandris

  Career Coach

  .
• 

  Jennifer Lau

  Career Advisor, Graduate Studies

  Peter Allard School of Law (UBC)
• 

  Dara Omolaja

  Legal Counsel

  TD Bank
• 

  Eric Pye

  Student Services Advisor

  Canadian Centre for Professional Legal Education (CPLED)

Sponsors

In this breakout session, we will delve into the nuances of litigation practice in Canada. Attendees will gain insights into trial preparation, courtroom strategies, and effective advocacy techniques tailored for diverse legal backgrounds. Learn from experienced litigators who will provide guidance and share best practices to help you excel in the competitive litigation arena.

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For internationally trained lawyers, launching and managing your own law firm presents unique challenges and opportunities. This session will focus on practical strategies to help you navigate the complexities of establishing a successful law practice in a new jurisdiction while effectively managing the business side of operations. 

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This session will provide an overview of employment law while exploring critical trends in privacy law that impact individuals and organizations. Participants will gain insights into employee rights, workplace discrimination, and labor regulation compliance, as well as significant privacy trends, including evolving data protection regulations, technology’s impact on personal privacy, and rights under the Personal Information Protection Act and Consumer Privacy Protection Act. 

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Participants will gain insights into emerging trends, regulatory changes, and best practices for conducting due diligence and negotiating deals. Join industry experts as they share their experiences and provide guidance on how to navigate the evolving Corporate, Securities, M&A environment, ensuring your practice stays ahead in this dynamic field.

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Join us for an engaging fireside chat focused on the unique financial challenges and opportunities that lawyers face in managing their wealth. Led by industry experts, this session will delve into critical topics such as tailored investment strategies, retirement planning in a new jurisdiction, and effective budgeting for legal professionals transitioning to the Canadian market.

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• Welcome drinks and hors d'oeuvres
• Networking and Socializing

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• Three-course dinner
• Entertainment and special address

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• Presentation of awards in various categories
• Recognition of outstanding achievements and contributions

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• Music, dancing, and networking

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