Staff Planning Session

From Vision to Activation

We don’t just set direction, we activate it. Turning plans into action, and action into results.

We’re stepping into our role as powerbrokers for bold environmental change—figuring out how we show up, where we have influence, and how we turn that into real movement across supply chains. Together, we’ll explore how to activate our vision for forest conservation… with a generous splash of Canopy spice along the way.

Why Gather Under the Big Top

  • Objective 1

    Clarity on the scale of Next Gen transformation and what we need to do to make it happen. 

  • Objective 2

    Strengthen Canopy’s powerbroker role to unlock Next Gen and financial health for Canopy’s operations. 

  • Objective 3

    Activate an integrated, high-trust culture that supports nimble, bold action—and game-changing impact. 

The Four Acts

The Mirror Act  

Monday, April 20 

We reflect on the past year to understand what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to evolve. 

The High Wire 

Tuesday, April 21 

We explore bold ideas and smart risks to move our work further and unlock greater impact. 

The Ensemble

Wednesday, April 22 

We align across teams and strategies to strengthen our collective impact and build real leverage. 

The Finale 

Thursday, April 23 

We turn insights into action, commit to next steps, and celebrate the progress we’ve made together. 

For four days, we will gather at the Rober H. Lee Alumni Centre in the heart of University of British Columbia's Vancouver campus.

Rober H. Lee Alumni Centre 
6163 University Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1

Throughout the week, we will stay at Gage Suites. 

Gage Suites
5959 Student Union Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1K2

Check-in is anytime after 3:00 PM. Check-out is 11:00 AM. 24/7 front desk and luggage storage is available.

Parking: On-site parking is covered by Canopy. Register at the front desk for your pass. 

Wi-Fi: Complimentary access via the ubcvisitor network.

Laundry: Machines in each tower basement. Pick up a reloadable laundry card ($5 deposit) at the front desk.

All suites includes a basic kitchen (fridge, stove, microwave, sink), with toiletries provided and daily housekeeping in private suites (limited in shared). 

Coffee and tea machines are available in rooms, but to support our low-waste approach, disposable pods have been removed. Coffee purchases are expensable, and coffee is available at the venue starting 8AM.

Behind the Curtain

If you’re arriving from YVR, public transit is the easiest and lowest-impact way to reach campus. 

  1. Take the Canada Line SkyTrain from Vancouver Airport  
  2. Ride 5 stops to Langara–49th Avenue Station 
  3. Transfer to the 049 bus toward UBC 
  4. Ride 28 stops to UBC Exchange (Bay 1) 
  5. From there, it’s an approximate 5-minute walk to Walter Gage Residence for check-in 

 To pay your fare, you can tap your Float Card at the gate or purchase a Compass Card (recommended if you plan to use transit more than once). Be sure to keep receipts for when you need to expense your travel. 

 Use Google Maps or the Transit App for real-time routes, timings, and platform details. 

Vancouver’s weather can be unpredictable, with cool mornings, mild afternoons, and frequent rain. Be sure to pack:

Base layers

Warm mid-layers for mornings and evenings

Waterproof rain jacket or shell

Comfortable walking shoes (preferably water-resistant)

Don’t forget to bring:

Reusable water bottle

Canopy laptop, charger, and other work essentials

• Wash your hands regularly.

• Masks and sanitizer are available on-site; use as needed.

• COVID tests are available if symptoms arise.

• Connect with Culture & Engagement if you’re feeling unwell.

• For more information, review the health and illness protocol. 

UBC offers space to reset and reconnect, whether you’re looking to move, breathe, or simply step away. 

Recreation Centre North  

6000 Student Union Blvd, Vancouver, BC 

A short walk from your accommodation with drop-in gym access for a quick reset. Canopy will reimburse for the fitness centre drop-in fee, simply use your Float/Soldo card.  

Pacific Spirit Park  

4915 W 16th Ave, Vancouver, BC  

Expansive forest trails perfect for a quiet walk amongst the trees. 

Wreck Beach  

6300 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC)  

500 steps down to the Pacific Ocean (and back up), with a clothing-optional setting. 

Before the full Cirque begins, the ILT will gather in a separate space just ahead of the Staff Planning Session. 

Location

Room 2311 in the Nest Building (6133 University Blvd), next to the Rober H. Lee Alumni Centre.

Catering Schedule 

Breakfast: 8:00–9:00 AM 

Lunch: 12:00–1:00 PM 

Snack: 3:00–4:00 PM 

On-site Support 
(778) 855-6540 

Fuelling the Cirque

Throughout the session, meals are designed to keep you energized, with breakfast, lunch, and snacks provided daily.  

Menus are vegetarian and mostly vegan, with all items clearly labelled for dietary needs.  

Dinner will be provided on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Wednesday evening is free for you to explore on your own. ote that Tuesday’s dinner will be at Banana Leaf in Kitsilano.

Meals are reimbursed when:

• It’s a travel day 

Dinner is not provided (Wednesday) 

Remember:

• Daily Meal Allowance $75 CAD

• Use Float/Soldo Card

• Keep receipts

• Do not include alcohol on the same receipt 

WHO TO CONTACT

Travel Support 

Travel days don’t always go to plan, but you’re supported every step of the way. 

Primary contact (24/7) 
Nhattan Nguyen

WhatsApp (fastest): +1 514-466-9976 

If urgent or no response on WhatsApp: 

  • Mobile: +1 (514) 466-9976 
  • Work: (514) 768-3080  

If you’re unable to reach Nhattan after multiple attempts: 

Direct Travel — 24hr Assistance 
(Agency Code: i9Ai) 

  • 1-800-263-1163 (Business hours, North America) 
  • 1-888-577-4616 (After hours, fees may apply) 
  • 1-514-855-4254 (Global collect) 

For medical emergencies, please refer to your travel insurance. 

Hannah Kocsis

For operations and logistics

(581) 909-7167 during travel or via Zoom leading up to the retreat. 

Sam Hartman

For general inquiries

(802) 324-9195 during travel or via Zoom leading up to the retreat. 

The Canopy Cirque Big Top has been raised!

Bring your curiosity, creativity, and Raven Revelry

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