WestCanCDA MEMBER LOUNGE

The WestCanCDA Members Only Lounge is here!

This annual gathering is one of the valued benefits of being part of the Western Canada Career Development Association (WCCDA). It is designed exclusively for individual members as a space for career development professionals to come together for meaningful connections, professional growth, and community building.

Event Details
📅 November 7, 2025
🕥 10:30 am – 2:00 pm
📍VCC Vancouver Community College - Downtown Campus, 250 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1S9, Room 240

Program Highlights

• Warm-up icebreaker activity led by a fellow member Lama Shaath to spark new connections

• Featured talk with author JoAnne Marlow on résumé building

• Industry Insight session with Donald Guse Salah, Director of Workforce Development at Restaurants Canada, focusing on the state of the restaurant industry, current and anticipated workforce needs, and opportunities for collaboration with career development professionals

This in-person event offers an intimate and welcoming setting to connect with peers, hear from inspiring guest speakers, and engage in conversations that matter to our profession.

 Whether you are new to the field or a long-time practitioner, the Members Only Lounge is a chance to strengthen your network, exchange ideas, and build community in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

Not a member yet? Join WCCDA today to access this event and many other benefits that support your growth and leadership in the career development sector.

BECOME A MEMBER NOW

This event is proudly organized in partnership with Vancouver Community College.

Lama Shaath

We’ll begin with an icebreaker led by Lama Shaath, a Certified Organizational Coach (UBC) and Career Development Practitioner (SFU). Lama is a candidate for the Certified Career Development Practitioner (CCDP) designation and the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential with the International Coaching Federation (ICF). With nearly two decades of coaching experience across France, the Middle East, and North America, Lama has supported individuals and organizations in fostering alignment and sustainable growth. In 2025, she was recognized as one of Vancouver’s top 15 Career Coaches.

JoAnne Marlow

Next, JoAnne Marlow, Employee Retention Specialist, author, and speaker, will lead a session on résumé building. JoAnne has worked extensively with both individuals and organizations to enhance recruitment, retention, and workplace culture, equipping people with tools to present themselves confidently and successfully in the job market.

Donald Guse Salah

We’ll close with an Industry Insight session from Donald Guse Salah, Director of Workforce Development at Restaurants Canada. Donald will share valuable perspectives on the current and future workforce needs in the restaurant sector and discuss how career development professionals can contribute to meeting those challenges through collaboration and innovative practice.

Whether you are new to the field or a long-time practitioner, the Members Only Lounge offers an inviting setting to build your network, spark new ideas, and feel part of a community that values growth, connection, and shared purpose.

Not a member yet? Join WestCanCDA today to access this event and many other benefits designed to support your professional growth and leadership in the career development sector.