Roundtables are your chance to connect with other creatives in a small group setting. Led by senior design professionals, roundtables are being hosted on both conferences days from 8:15 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

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

Sign up for roundtables when you register for the conference. Roundtables are $10 each unless otherwise noted as free or $5 (students only).

Topics

The future of product and branding
This discussion will analyze the key technological, ethical and digital trends shaping branding today, including AI-driven branding, sustainability and the rise of digital-first brand experiences. We’ll explore how brands are adapting to new platforms like the metaverse, NFTs and social commerce, while also considering the impact of evolving consumer behaviours on brand strategy and product innovation.
Moderator: Anahit Lou

The business of design: Aligning design practices with business mindsets
It can often be challenging for designers to balance our creative visions with successful business outcomes. Whether it be for our clients, who would like to understand the ROI behind every project, or for ourselves, focusing on setting up our own businesses to be financially viable, there is a constant struggle between left and right brain. Let’s chat about how we can combine the best of both worlds.
Moderator: Dave Dick RGD

Beautiful, creative + accessible: Strategies for accessible design
Join this discussion focused on key questions about accessibility, such as when and how to consider it when launching a project, advice or insights that have changed your perspective on accessibility, and your favourite tools for streamlining accessibility in your projects or organization.
Moderator: Mairin Deery RGD

The value of Certification [Free]
Certification has both internal and external value, in any profession. For designers, it’s about the accomplishment and the internal feeling of pride. But it’s also about the external credibility it provides for clients and employers. Join the RGD’s Executive Director as she outlines the RGD’s Certification process and answers your questions about the process, the value of the experience and the benefits of RGD Membership throughout your career. We promise it’s not as scary as you think.
Moderator: Hilary Ashworth

Designing Differently: Embracing neurodiversity in creative work
Being neurodivergent in the design world comes with both its unique challenges and extraordinary strengths. In this roundtable, we’ll explore how our brains work differently—and how that difference can be a superpower in creative problem-solving. Let’s discuss self-advocacy, our value as designers, strengths, accommodations and what a truly inclusive design culture could look like. Whether you identify as neurodivergent or want to support ND coworkers, this is a space for honest conversation and collective insight.
Moderator: Daniel Asel RGD