The Southern Ontario Tourism Conference (SOTC) is our region’s premier gathering of tourism operators, businesses, industry partners, association bodies, with municipal, provincial and government entities to connect, network and learn. The Conference is presented jointly by Ontario’s Southwest (OSW), and RTO3 - Hamilton Halton Brant (RTO3).
Why You Should Attend
Are you engaged in the tourism and hospitality sector? Are you a student aspiring to enter the workforce within this industry? Are you actively seeking to establish professional connections in Southern Ontario? Are you committed to continuous learning, the examination of inherent biases, and the cultivation of the skills essential for sustained success in this field? Do you yearn for inspiration and a heightened sense of enthusiasm?
The Southern Ontario Tourism Conference is a fantastic opportunity to:
- Gain valuable knowledge through workshops, presentations, learning tours, and panel discussions.
- Receive knowledge and insights by staying updated on the latest trends, best practices, and market insights.
- Embrace networking opportunities by connecting with industry peers, potential partners, and experts.
- Learn new skills necessary to create a sustainable future.
- Be inspired by incredible keynote speakers with actionable ideas.
- Discover strategies for growing and improving tourism-related businesses.
- Celebrate the finalists and winners at the Regional Tourism Innovation Awards Gala.
And don’t forget, we promise to sprinkle in some laughs and excitement along the way!
Who Should Attend
All individuals directly involved or interested in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry. These include but are not limited to:
- Stakeholders of the Tourism Industry
- Business owners
- Investors
- College and University Students
- Consultants
- Municipal & Provincial Government
Event Details:
Location: Best Western Lamplighter Inn & Conference Centre
Dates: March 3rd - March 4th
Conference Agenda:
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TUESDAY MARCH 3, 2025 |
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10:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
Pre-Conference Learning Tours |
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1:30 PM - 2:00 PM |
Welcome Remarks |
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2:00 PM - 3:00 PM |
Tourism Industry Update Presented by Joanne Wolnik, Ontarios’ Southwest And Maria Fortunato, RTO 3: Hamilton Halton Brant |
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3:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
Opening Keynote: Branding the Logo: Building a Brand People Remember A strong brand shapes not only how visitors see your business, but how you make decisions every day. Drawing on my experience as a content creator and brand marketing strategist who has collaborated with tourism operators and organizations for several years, I’ll share insights on defining your brand identity, clarifying your message, and expressing your story through confident visual design and content. This session explores how understanding your brand helps attract the right audience, strengthen partnerships, and guide smarter business choices. Presented by Brent Colmer |
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4:00 PM - 5:00 PM |
Free Time |
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5:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
Cocktail Reception |
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6:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
2025 Ontario’s Southwest and RTO3 Industry Awards Gala |
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8:30 PM – 10:00 PM |
The Southern Ontario Tourism Conference SoSocial |
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WEDNESDAY MARCH 4, 2025 |
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7:00 AM – 9:00 AM |
Hot Buffet Breakfast |
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9:00 AM – 9:15 AM |
Welcome Remarks |
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9:15 AM – 10:15 AM |
Keynote Presentation: Presented by Kevin Eshkawkogan, President & CEO of Indigenous Tourism Ontario |
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10:15 AM - 10:45 AM |
Networking Break |
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10:45 AM - 11:45 AM |
Breakout Sessions 1A – 1C |
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11:45 AM - 12:45 PM |
Lunch Break |
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12:45 PM - 1:45 PM |
Breakout Sessions 2A – 2C |
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1:45 PM - 2:00 PM |
Networking Break |
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2:00 PM - 3:00 PM |
Closing Keynote: Peter Katz |
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3:00 PM - 3:15 PM |
Closing Remarks |
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3:15 PM |
Safe Travels Home |
We look forward to welcoming you to London, Ontario!