Capilano U
x = independently organized TED event

Theme: TEDxCapilanoU: Stepping into the Unknown

April 25, 2025
North Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada
This event is open to the public.
Tickets are available.

Join the Capilano University Alumni Association in partnership with the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, as we explore how stepping into the unknown can unlock creativity, purpose, and deeper connections to ourselves and the world around us.

This inspiring event features keynote speaker Dianne Whelan, CapU alumna and award-winning filmmaker, photographer, and author. As the first person to complete both the land and water routes of the 24,000 km Trans Canada Trail, Dianne’s journey—captured in 500 Days in the Wild—is a powerful reminder that life’s greatest lessons often lie in the uncharted.

In addition to our keynote speaker, TEDxCapilanoU proudly showcases voices from our own community, including CapU alumni, students, and instructors, sharing their unique perspectives on embracing the unknown.

Limited Spots Available—register now to be part of this unforgettable evening!

Only 100 seats available on a first-come, first-served basis.

TEDxCapilanoU 2024 sold out quickly—secure your spot today!

Blue Shore Theatre, Capilano University
2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver
North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7J 3H5
Canada
Event type:
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Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check event website for more information.

Ashleigh Davies

Early Childhood Educator, Head Coordinator, Burnaby Continuing Education (ECE program)
Ashleigh Davies is an early childhood educator, having received her bachelors in ECCE from Capilano University. Ashleigh is the head coordinator of Burnaby Continuing Education's ECE program, previously working as post-secondary instructor and the North Shore Municipal Child Care Consultant. She presents workshops to educators throughout Canada on a variety of topics relating to equity & inclusion in education. She can be found online as Pedagogyandchill.

Dianne Whelan

Filmmaker, photographer, author and multimedia artist
Dianne Whelan, award-winning Canadian Documentary filmmaker, and accomplished photographer, artist, storyteller, author and public speaker. Dianne has written, directed, and produced two award winning films, a three-part series for CBC, a Gemini-nominated interactive website, written two books and has exhibited her photographs in numerous art galleries in her 30-year career as an artist and storyteller. In August 2021 she completed the land and water trails of the 24,000 km Trans Canada Trail and is the first person and woman to do so. The journey is the subject film project 500 Days in the Wild and will be the story of her next book. Her feature documentary 40 Days at Base Camp was shot on Mt. Everest and is accompanied by her book about her Everest experience called, Base Camp:40 Days on Everest. Dianne's book, This Vanishing Land, is based on her experience filming in Canada's High Arctic called, This Land (NFB).

Ramin Shadmehr

Dean, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Capilano University
Dr. Ramin Shadmehr is a visionary leader, technical artist, educator, scholar and technology entrepreneur. He spearheaded transformative initiatives at Capilano University, including establishing the first Unreal Authorized Training Center in Western Canada. Ramin is also a technology entrepreneur and founder of Techies of Tomorrow, a program focused on providing mentorship and training to support underrepresented groups in the technology sector. His research explores the use of virtual reality in education and training for autistic individuals, showcasing his commitment to inclusive practices. Ramin is a strong advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in education and is currently a sitting member of the Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Council at the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade. He believes in the power of the arts to transform lives and communities, and, hence, has been a great supporter and advocate for the arts and art education.

Organizing team

Brittany
Haavaldsrud

North Vancouver, BC, Canada
Organizer

Hazel
Yeung

Co-organizer