In an era marked by climate disruption, inequality, biodiversity loss, and global economic uncertainty, how can Canadian businesses build resilient local economies that allow people and communities to thrive?
This question was front and centre on April 2nd, as nearly 100 members of the social purpose community gathered in Vancouver for Finding Purpose in Turbulent Times: Social Purpose as a Beacon. Hosted by the Canadian Purpose Economy Project (CPEP) and Greater Purpose, the evening featured powerful insights from guest speakers: Hamish Khamisa, President, Sparx Publishing Group; Elizabeth Gamble, President, GLOBE Series; Michelle Reid, Senior Advisor, Indigenous Reconciliation, Social Impact and B Corp at BDC; and Tony Scott, CEO, Proclaim Group. I was pleased to moderate the session in my role as CPEP co-founder.
April 2nd was dubbed “Liberation Day” by U.S. President Donald Trump, a move that reignited global trade tensions and added another layer of instability to an already fragile economy. For many in the room, this underscored the urgency of finding new models for business—models grounded in purpose.
Guest panellists were asked, “How do we navigate these issues, and can purpose be the beacon that helps Canadians build strong local economies and communities?
Elizabeth Gamble kicked off the session talking about the strategic importance of a social purpose, which can galvanize employees and stakeholders and create more long-term value, while also suggesting that reframing our approach using a “materiality” versus a “morality” lens might help us meet the current moment. Leaning into messages around risk management, competitiveness, resilience, and value creation can demonstrate how businesses can do well by doing good.
Operating in a highly competitive talent industry, Tony said that social purpose helps him attract and retain some of the best people in the industry. Hamish Khamisa echoed that it has unlocked new opportunities and partnerships, helping him build his business and help build the future he wants to see.
Lastly, Michelle Reid touched on associating purpose with more inclusive language, and the importance of continuing to focus on purpose as a means to honour past and present generations and build a better future.
The energy in the room was palpable, with a participant offering a final remark that “’woke’ [how many of us in the social purpose movement might be characterized in our current moment] just means you give a damn about people.” Indeed.
In a world defined by disruption and uncertainty, the evening affirmed that social purpose isn’t just a beacon—it’s a roadmap for building the resilient, values-aligned economy Canada needs now.