Purpose-Driven Planning & Motivation for 2025

As we usher in a new year, 2025 presents an opportunity for event planners and organizers to set clear intentions and position their events at the forefront of industry trends. Moreover, today’s audiences crave meaningful connections, forward-looking insights, and a strong sense of purpose. In this month’s Center Stage article, “Purpose-Driven Planning & Motivation for 2025”, we dive into a curated list of the best motivational speakers, timely topics, and inspiring venues, that will help you set the stage for impactful, transformative events in the year ahead.

Inspiring Speakers to Watch in 2025

These speakers embody the spirit of motivation, future readiness, and innovation. Ranging from corporate wellness to AI futurism, they are poised to inspire and empower your audiences.

Raia “Coach” Carey – Motivational Speaker & Corporate Wellness Facilitator

Looking to boost morale and support well-being in your organization? Raia “Coach” Carey specializes in corporate wellness, meditation, and facilitating healthier workplace cultures. She guides teams to improve emotional resilience, productivity, and work-life balance, thereby creating a more connected and engaged workforce.

Karina LeBlanc – Leadership & Team Culture Expert

For event planners wanting a speaker who can transform how organizations operate from the inside out, Karina’s leadership journey is both relatable and galvanizing. Recently, fresh off her role as GM and President of Operations at the NWSL’s Portland Thorns FC, Karina LeBlanc brings her experience in fostering resilient, high-performing teams. Ultimately, she drives sustainable success and transforms how organizations operate from the inside out.

Iliana Oris Valiente – Tech Strategist & Transformation Leader

In a landscape where technology evolves at lightning speed, Iliana Oris Valiente demystifies the tech frontier. Specifically, she helps teams navigate strategic transformation journeys, embracing emerging tools and implementing solutions that build a future people actually want to live in. As a result, tapping into Iliana’s insights in 2025 can empower event attendees to harness technology confidently and fuel sustainable growth.

Ben Nemtin – Popular Motivational Speaker & Author

Ben Nemtin, known for The Buried Life and his work inspiring others to achieve their dreams, delivers uplifting and practical advice. His presentations revolve around accountability, setting meaningful goals, and turning big visions into tangible results. For planners looking to rekindle purpose and drive positive action, Ben is a trusted, crowd-pleasing choice.

Zack Kass – AI Futurist & Innovation Expert

The future of work is inseparable from the future of AI. Zack Kass empowers organizations to navigate the future of work by integrating AI into workflows and decision-making. His forward-thinking insights equip audiences with the tools to stay agile and thrive in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

Josh Dueck – X Games Gold Medalist & Paralympic Medalist

Facing adversity head-on, Josh Dueck transformed challenges into triumphs. His story of resilience, grit, and adaptation resonates across industries. For teams navigating change and uncertainty, Josh’s experience offers a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, adversity can become a catalyst for growth.

2025 brings a renewed focus on action, innovation, and purpose. Accordingly, here are five themes to consider for your next event:

1. Getting Things Done

Drawing from Jesse Lipscombe’s “The Art of Doing,” this topic emphasizes moving from intention to action. It’s about breaking down barriers, staying motivated, and transforming plans into impactful, measurable outcomes. Attendees leave ready to execute on their most ambitious goals.

2. Inclusive Innovation & Cultural Intelligence

As the world grows more interconnected, tapping into diverse perspectives is key. This topic guides audiences in embracing inclusivity, encouraging innovation from all corners, and leading with cultural empathy.

3. The Future of Work & AI Integration

As AI becomes increasingly intertwined with daily operations, this topic explores best practices for leveraging new technologies. Planners can book speakers like Zack Kass or Iliana Oris Valiente to help audiences embrace digital transformation and future-proof their skill sets.

4. Wellness & Corporate Culture Transformation

With mental health and employee engagement at the forefront, this timely theme addresses mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and nurturing a supportive environment. For instance, Raia “Coach” Carey provides insight into designing cultures that value well-being as much as performance.

5. Leadership & Team Resilience

Events centred on leadership and teamwork have never been more relevant. Karina LeBlanc’s lessons in cultivating trust, unity, and purpose-driven leadership resonate across organizations looking to inspire top-tier team performance.

5 Popular Canadian Event Venues for 2025

Setting your event in an inspiring environment can amplify attendee engagement and leave a lasting impression. With that in mind, here are some top venue picks for 2025, offering world-class facilities and distinct local flair.

1. Pier 21 (Halifax, Nova Scotia)

Step into a venue rich in Canadian history and maritime charm. Pier 21 is a waterfront space that offers versatile rooms with sweeping views of Halifax Harbour, making it perfect for summits with a cultural touch. Its unique blend of historic significance and modern amenities ensures an unforgettable experience for attendees.

2. Vancouver Convention Centre (Vancouver, British Columbia)

With its iconic living roof and panoramic waterfront views, the Vancouver Convention Centre offers a sustainable and inspiring setting for global events. Its proximity to luxury hotels, fine dining, and outdoor adventures makes it perfect for creating seamless attendee experiences. As a hub for world-class conferences, it delivers top-tier service and innovative event design.

3. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (Jasper, Alberta)

Surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge offers an inspiring backdrop for corporate events. Its modern facilities, luxurious accommodations, and tranquil setting make it ideal for productive meetings and team retreats. Elevate your event with world-class service and breathtaking views.

4. Evergreen Brick Works (Toronto, Ontario)

Nestled in a lush ravine, Evergreen Brick Works is an industrial-chic venue that blends urban sustainability with natural beauty. Moreover, its versatile spaces, including the Heritage Kiln Building, provide the perfect backdrop for forward-thinking conferences and summits. By focusing on sustainability and community, Evergreen Brick Works inspires innovation while leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

5. Palais des congrès de Montréal (Montréal, Québec)

With its iconic multicoloured glass façade, the Palais des congrès de Montréal blends culture, innovation, and trendsetting energy. Located in a city renowned for its festivals, culinary artistry, and creative industries, it offers attendees a cosmopolitan experience. Perfect for bold, statement-making events, this venue ensures an unforgettable blend of sophistication and local flair.

Step into 2025 with Confidence

As the new year unfolds, event planners have an abundance of tools to design gatherings that feel purposeful, future-ready, and authentically human. By tapping into motivational speakers, focusing on trending topics, and selecting venues that set the tone for transformative experiences, you’ll shape events that resonate long after the curtains close.

Ready to Elevate Your Events in 2025?

Our team is here to help you align the right speaker, theme, and venue to your unique objectives. Get in touch, and let’s make 2025 the year your events truly shine.

Stay Connected! Want more insights into emerging trends and top talent?

Don’t forget to share “Purpose-Driven Planning & Motivation for 2025” with your community, because together we can embrace purpose, motivation, and forward-thinking strategies. In addition, here’s to a year of events that spark change, inspire action, and celebrate meaningful connections.

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