SEPTEMBER 16, 2026
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Women in Print: Building an Inclusive Future for Canadian Print
Together We’re Better 2026 brings together leaders from across Canada’s print and packaging community for a focused, forward-looking conversation about the future of our industry.
This year’s theme — Women in Print: Building an Inclusive Future for Canadian Print — highlights the leadership, innovation, and operational excellence driving our businesses forward today. The program will explore how strong leadership, mentorship, education, and cross-industry collaboration are shaping the next generation of talent and strengthening the Canadian print ecosystem.
The day will feature perspectives from senior executives, operational leaders, supplier partners, recruiters, and educators — reflecting the full landscape of print. Through keynote insights, moderated discussions, and collaborative dialogue, attendees will gain practical takeaways they can apply within their own organizations.
Together We’re Better continues to be a space where leaders connect, ideas move forward, and momentum builds across our industry.
Speakers
Marlys Brothers – Ricoh Canada
Marlys leads commercial and industrial print strategy at Ricoh Canada, working closely with organizations navigating technology transformation and production optimization. With extensive experience in manufacturing and enterprise print environments, she brings insight into how innovation, culture, and leadership intersect to drive performance and long-term growth.
Cory Turner – Spicers Canada
Since 2011, Cory has served as President of Spicers Canada, the country’s largest distributor of paper, packaging, and graphic arts solutions to the print industry. With over 30 years of experience, he is recognized for building collaborative partnerships across the supply chain and championing talent development. Cory brings a practical, experience-based perspective on market evolution, workforce sustainability, and the role leaders play in shaping strong, high-performing organizations.
Heather Black – Freely Connect Recruitment
Heather Black is the Founder of Freely Connect Recruitment, serving print and packaging employers across Canada. With 30+ years in the industry, she connects talent with organizations focused on building strong teams. Heather offers a direct perspective on hiring trends, retention, and attracting the right people. She serves as a Board Director with OPIA and an Advisory Board member with Girls Who Print Canada.
Jadzia Firstenhaupt – Spicers Canada
Jadzia leads the National Graphic Systems & Solutions segment at Spicers Canada, guiding national product strategy and initiatives that enhance customer experience and deliver tailored solutions. Her team brings expertise across products, equipment, systems, and technology, supporting productivity in both traditional and digital print environments. Through strong partnerships with manufacturers and customers, Jadzia helps keep Spicers at the forefront of industry innovation — delivering integrated solutions that drive efficiency and quality.
Christine Yardley – Print Panther Direct
Christine Yardley is President and Co-Founder of Print Panther Direct, an award-winning North American print company recognized for leadership in digital embellishment, specialty inks, and advanced print applications. A recent Printing Leader of the Year recipient, she has positioned the company at the forefront of high-build embellishment, digital foil, metallic layering, and specialty color applications that take print beyond CMYK to create bold, tactile brand experiences. Christine leads with clarity and conviction, building high-performing teams and driving innovation that redefines what modern print can achieve.
She serves on the PAC Digital Leadership Council and is an Advisory Board Member with Girls Who Print Canada and the Taktisphere Advisory Council.
Joanne Gore – Joanne Gore Communications
Joanne Gore is a B2B marketing authority on a mission to help the print industry sell more print. With a career spanning software, OEMs, and print – including roles at Compaq, DST Output, and Ricoh – she now leads as President and Chief Strategist of Joanne Gore Communications, a firm focused on driving growth through strategic messaging, lead generation, and social selling. Joanne is the author of Thriving in Chaos: Lessons Learned as a Corporate Marketer and a sought-after speaker who translates trends like AI, sustainability, and digital transformation into real-world opportunities for brands across North America and Europe.
Cameron Rouse – BCIT
Cam assists in leading the Graphic Communications program at BCIT and plays a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of print professionals. A consistent advocate for industry engagement and mentorship, he bridges education and real-world production environments. Cam brings valuable perspective on student development, evolving curriculum, and how industry leaders can actively support workforce readiness.
Elodie Brewer – BCIT
Elodie Brewer is a graduate of BCIT’s Graphic Communications program and now the Assistant Instructor, supporting the next generation of print professionals. With a background in the print industry and a passion for education, she brings a hands-on, approachable perspective to the classroom.
Amanda Parker – DesCan
Amanda Parker is currently serving as the National President for the Design Professionals of Canada (DesCan), representing and advocating for designers across Canada. Amanda is also the Owner & Art Director of AP Creative, a women-led, remote design and brand studio serving Canadian non-profits and businesses. With a background rooted in the print industry, Amanda works closely with companies to elevate their brand presence, clarify their messaging, and align creative strategy with business growth. She brings a sharp understanding of how human-centred design, storytelling, and production intersect — and how strong branding can position print organizations to stand out in a competitive marketplace.
Panel
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Your dedication and commitment to the print industry is deeply appreciated. Thank you for being a driving force behind our shared vision of a vibrant, sustainable future. Your support not only strengthens our community but also empowers innovation, collaboration, and growth within the print industry. Together, we are creating meaningful change and paving the way for the next generation of print professionals. We are truly grateful for your partnership and look forward to achieving even greater success together.



