BC Fairs Learning Exchange

The BC Fairs Learning Exchange took place in Penticton on April 14-16, bringing together a diverse community of thought leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts from across the realms of business, culture, and innovation. This BC Fairs event serves as a dynamic platform for fostering collaborative dialogue, sharing groundbreaking ideas, and cultivating lasting connections.

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews delivered opening remarks, including an overview of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry, the value of agri-tourism, and resources for agri-tourism operators.

Ellen also took part in a panel on Communicating in a Crisis with Leeann Froese and Travel Penticton executive director Thom Tischik, moderated by Allison Markin of All She Wrote Consulting. The panelists discussed how fairs/large events can communicate in a meaningful way when a sudden disaster (fires, floods, road closures, pandemics etc) happens, plus prepare ahead of time by developing reputation management strategies.