New Westminster Economic Forum: Building a Vision for Our Community’s Future
Economic Forum at Anvil Centre February 6, 2025
On February 6, 2025, the New Westminster Chamber of Commerce and Downtown New West BIA are proud to host the highly anticipated Economic Forum. This event is an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the thought leaders shaping the future of our city’s economy. Join us as we explore how New Westminster’s economic growth can create a thriving ecosystem for businesses, residents, and the community as a whole.
Why This Forum Matters
Economic growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the lives it touches. At this forum, we aim to:
- Explore the impact of industry growth on job creation and the vitality of New Westminster’s tertiary sectors.
- Highlight opportunities for businesses and organizations to thrive in our evolving economy.
- Foster dialogue that will shape a vision for New Westminster over the next 5, 10, and 15 years.
This is more than a discussion—it’s a platform to inspire actionable change and ensure our city remains a beacon of growth and livability.
Meet the Speakers
We’re thrilled to bring together a dynamic panel of experts who bring unique perspectives and deep expertise to the table:
MAIN PANEL
Charmaine De Silva - Panel Moderator
Charmaine De Silva
As an award-winning journalist and storyteller, Charmaine brings her knack for thoughtful and engaging discussions to the role of moderator. Her ability to distill complex topics ensures that every voice is heard and every insight is unpacked.
Gary Pooni - Panel Speaker
Gary Pooni
A recognized leader in urban planning and development, Gary is passionate about creating sustainable, inclusive communities. His insights into strategic development and planning will shed light on how New Westminster can balance growth with its rich history and unique identity.
Lisa Spitale - Panel Speaker
Lisa Spitale
As the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of New Westminster, Lisa has been instrumental in shaping policies that drive economic and community development. Her deep understanding of municipal operations makes her an invaluable voice on the panel.
Laura Grady - Panel Speaker
Laura Grady
With a background in community engagement and advocacy, Laura’s work focuses on creating opportunities for arts, culture, and not-for-profits to flourish. Her perspective highlights the importance of the social fabric in economic discussions.
Kandyse McClure - Panel Speaker
Kandyse McClure
As a passionate advocate for diversity and representation, Kandyse brings a unique lens to the conversation. Her work spans creative industries and social causes, providing a fresh perspective on how inclusive growth can drive community success.
Luncheon speaker
Terry Yung - Luncheon Speaker
Terry Yung
Terry Yung, MLA for Vancouver-Yaletown and Minister of State for Community Safety, is a former senior officer with the Vancouver Police Department. He has led initiatives in diversity and Indigenous relations, tackled hate crimes, and improved law enforcement collaboration. As a community advocate, Terry has served on boards like Covenant House Vancouver and SUCCESS, where he expanded affordable housing by over 1,000 units. He is dedicated to building safer, more inclusive communities across British Columbia.
Breakout PANEL:
INDEPENDENT RETAILERS & RESTAURANTEURS
Ian Tostenson -
Breakout Panel Speaker
Ian Tostenson
Ian is a visionary leader and the President and CEO of the BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association. With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the hospitality industry, Ian’s moderation will guide the conversation toward actionable solutions for economic growth.
Jorden Foss -
Breakout Panel Speaker
Jorden Foss
As co-founder of Steel & Oak Brewing Co., Jorden has firsthand experience navigating the evolving craft beer industry. His insights into entrepreneurship and community-building showcase how small businesses can be catalysts for economic and cultural growth.
Linzy Le - Breakout Panel Speaker
Linzy Le
Linzy Le is the founder of Churi, her boutique in New Westminster’s Quay featuring local artisans and handcrafted goods. With a commerce degree from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Linzy combines business acumen with a passion for community. Linzy is a driving force in New West’s business community.
Alejandro Diaz - Breakout Panel Speaker
Alejandro Diaz
Alejandro, owner of El Santo, a stylish Mexican restaurant in New Westminster since 2015. Starting as a dishwasher in Canada, he worked his way up to restaurateur. Passionate about community, Alejandro has raised nearly $100,000 for the Canucks Autism Network.
Jessica Nguyen -
Breakout Panel Speaker
Jessica Nguyen
essica is the co-founder of Bak’d Cookies, a gourmet bakery born out of the pandemic. What began as a lockdown hobby with her brother, Andy, quickly evolved into a thriving business. Known for their gooey, New York-style cookies, Bak’d has grown into a local favorite, with its reputation built on exceptional quality and a strong social media presence.
Tamarah Kruse -
Breakout Panel Speaker
Tamarah Kruse
Tamarah co-owns Coasters Coffee, a Pacific Northwest-inspired café she launched with her sister. Her entrepreneurial journey is fueled by passion, resilience, and a commitment to creating a welcoming space that enriches lives—from her employees to her customers—while fostering trust and dependability.
Breakout PANEL:
Hollywood north as a tourism driver
Kandyse McClure -
Breakout Panel Moderator
Kandyse McClure
Kandyse returns to moderate with a perspective shaped by her being a resident in the lower mainland and her work in the entertainment industry, including roles in Virgin River (2019), Charmed (2018), and Battlestar Galactica (2003).
Gerardo Corro -
Breakout Panel Moderator
Gerardo Corro
As Executive Director of Tourism New Westminster, Gerardo brings nearly 20 years of international expertise in destination strategies. Gerardo leads initiatives like CINEVENTURE, promoting film-centered tourism across BC, and is a champion for sustainable tourism in New Westminster.
Breakout PANEL:
Big building
Jeff Norris -
Breakout Panel Moderator
Jeff Norris
Jeff Norris, President and CEO of the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation, is a non-profit leader with nearly 30 years of experience in healthcare and education. Jeff has held leadership roles with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation, and Kwantlen Polytechnic University.
Peter Edgar -
Breakout Panel Speaker
Peter Edgar
Peter Edgar, CEO of EDGAR Development since 2009, is a leading real estate developer in Western Canada with expertise in residential and mixed-use projects. Known for designs that foster community connection, he is dedicated to creating spaces that go beyond traditional development.
Gagan Sivia -
Breakout Panel Speaker
Gagan Sivia
Gagan , a CPA, CGA, and CFP with expertise in accounting and finance, is a leader in FP&A. She co-owns Azure Properties Group, teaches full-time at BCIT, and shares her passion for analytics. A recognized speaker, Gagan is dedicated to fostering sustainable community development across British Columbia.
Breakout Tour:
Walking tour of downtown New West
Jessica Jiang -
Breakout Tour Guide
Jessica Jiang
Jessica Jiang, a third-year political science student at UBC, gained valuable experience with Downtown New West BIA.On campus, she serves as a student ambassador and project coordinator with the UBC Student Alumni Council, honing her public speaking, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
What’s at Stake
The forum will delve into how industry growth directly impacts sectors like services, restaurants, and not-for-profits—key drivers of New Westminster’s identity and economy. By understanding these connections, we can better support local businesses, create jobs, and enhance the city’s livability.
Secure Your Spot
Don’t miss this chance to be part of the conversation. Registration is open until February 3, 2025. Reserve your spot today and join us in shaping the vision of New Westminster’s future.
For more information or to register, visit the link for tickets or contact us at events@newwestchamber.com
Let’s build a brighter future for New Westminster—together.
