Led by senior design professionals, roundtables are being hosted on both conferences days from 8:15 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Bring your questions, offer advice and participate in conversations that will leave you feeling engaged and energized.

Here are the topics on this year’s schedule for Day 2 Morning Roundtables:

Mission possible: Finding purpose and passion in your work
Do you yearn for a job where you can unleash your creativity and make a tangible impact every day? This roundtable explores the myriad of possibilities and personal satisfactions that come with working in an environment that aligns with your values.
Moderator: Scott Ferguson RGD
Scott has over 20 years of experience in motion graphics, 3D design, video production, illustration and more. He has worked with networks like Much, MTV and HBO. Throughout his career, Scott has experienced both the highs of following his passion and the challenges of losing it along the way. Now, he’s focused on helping fellow designers navigate their own creative paths and rediscover purpose in their work.

Who isn’t at the table? Designing for diversity, equity & inclusion
Together, we will explore the vital themes of diversity, equity and inclusion as it relates to design and creativity. Let’s discuss the ongoing work, practical steps and visionary goals that bridge the gap to a more inclusive and representative future for design and creativity.
Moderator: Alan Joson RGD, Graphic Designer for The Michener Institute of Education at UHN
Alan balances his role as an in-house graphic designer with an active freelance design career, where he works with clients from varied backgrounds, ensuring their unique voices and identities are reflected in every project. Alan remains committed to exceeding client expectations while promoting the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion in all his work.

Me, myself and I: Succeeding as a solo practitioner
There is no blueprint to working for yourself. Let’s discuss the successes we’ve accomplished and failures we’ve endured, so we can all learn from each other and grow our businesses.
Moderator: Michelle Hopgood RGD, Founder, Creative Designer & Information Specialist at Hopgood Creative
With over 15 years of experience in design, information, knowledge and information management, Michelle helps researchers, academics, and thinkers use the power of design to explain complex ideas. 

Imposter syndrome who? Gaining confidence in your skills and abilities
Let’s talk about some of the situations we’ve faced and share strategies you can pull from your back pocket when those negative feelings bubble up in the future.
Moderator: John Furneaux RGD, Managing Director, Toronto, at PS&Co Brand Studio
At PS&Co, John oversees strategic and creative development. Previously, he held executive positions at leading brand consultancies including Identica Branding, karacters design group, Ove Design and Publicis Brand|Design. John teaches at George Brown College in their Design Management. 

Challenges of being an in-house designer for government
Designing for government and government agencies bring its own unique challenges. In-house designers for governments of all levels (municipalities, provincial, state or federal) are invited to join us to discuss and exchange strategies and solutions to address these challenges.
Moderators (2 groups): Carla Thibodeau RGD / Carolyn Harman RGD
With 15 years’ experience, Carla currently works as the in-house designer at the Financial and Consumer Services Commission of New Brunswick, the province’s financial regulator. She has worked for a book publisher, a non-profit organization, the Department of National Defence and as a freelancer. She is working towards attaining Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies certification through the International Association of Accessibility Professionals. / Carolyn is an innovative and creative thought-leader who has worn a multitude of stylish yet professional hats from an exciting 27-year career in graphic design, marketing and communications. She has designed and strategized with brands like Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), Destination Canada and the City of Ottawa, and currently leads the marketing team for a high-tech start-up in Ottawa.

Colouring inside the lines: Fostering creativity within the confines of a brand
The same branding, same colours, same style day in and out. It can get boring. How do we foster that creative itch and stay motivated while adhering to our often strict brand guidelines? Join us to discuss techniques for pushing the brand envelope, trying out new, potentially radical ideas, all while still staying brand faithful.
Moderator: Dee Olher RGD
Specializing in visual and motion design with expertise spanning UX/UI design, art direction and 3D technique, Dee is deeply committed to crafting designs that strike a balance between simplicity and impact, focusing on delivering messages that not only communicate clearly but also leave a lasting impression on the audience. 

The comparison trap: How to revel in competition and celebrate other people’s success
Who hasn’t fallen into the trap of comparing ourselves, and our work, to others and feeling pretty awful about it? Let’s discuss constructive ways to navigate this habit and build our confidence. We will learn tools and techniques for returning to what matters.
Moderator: Radim Malinic, Creative director, Designer & Best-selling Author
DesignThinkers speaker, Radim runs Brand Nu Studio, an award-winning branding and creative studio, and Brand Nu Books, an independent publishing imprint.

Beautiful, creative + accessible: Strategies for accessible design
Join a discussion that will address questions that include:
– When, and how, do you consider accessibility when you’re launching a project?
– What is a piece of advice or information you learned that changed the way you think about accessibility?
– What is your favourite tool for streamlining accessibility in your projects or organization?
Moderator: Catherine Ryan, Associate Creative Director at Context Creative
With over 11 years of experience in branding, campaigns, web design and UX, Catherine has worked both in-house and at design and communications agencies, applying a broad range of expertise to her projects. 

DesignThinkers attendees will be able to pre-register for discussions. Keep an eye on your email for the sign-up form.