As CEO of the Canadian Career Development Foundation (CCDF), Sareena bridges policy, research, and practice in order to strengthen the reach and impact of career development across Canada and internationally. Sareena currently chairs the International Centre for Career Development and Public Policy (ICCDPP) and is an International NICEC Fellow. Sareena has deeply rooted frontline experience, a strong background in mental health, and over 30 years of leadership in the career development sector. Sareena was awarded the International Gold Medal for Leadership in Career Development in 2014 and the Etta St. John Wileman Award for Outstanding Achievement in Career Development in 2026.

Mark Patterson Executive Director at Magnet, Toronto Metropolitan University. Mark Patterson is Founder and Executive Director of Magnet, a centre of innovation dedicated to helping employers, workers, and communities adapt to a rapidly changing economy. A recognized leader in workforce innovation, his work focuses on how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, are reshaping jobs, skills, and organizational strategy. Mark advocates for human-centred approaches to AI that help organizations build inclusive, future-ready workforces and support people in navigating a rapidly evolving labour market.