Calvin Barr

Calvin Barr


Collision 2021: 7 Smart Ways the Virtual Convention Expanded Its Impact

TORONTO—A year ago, Web Summit announced that its widely attended Toronto-based technology conference would be taking place entirely online. Despite having provided remote access to the event in previous years, the idea of virtually navigating hundreds of activities and trying to network among thousands of people was daunting—especially early into COVID-19 lockdowns. But “Collision From Home” attracted 32,000 people in 2020—a 25% increase compared to 2019—effectively demonstrating the value of
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How Pride Toronto Plans to Pull Off a 'Phygital' Festival

TORONTO—Pride month kicks off in Toronto next week, with the annual rainbow and trans pride flag raising at City Hall on June 1. This year’s celebrations include over 70 individual events showcasing more than 150 2SLGBTQ+ artists, 14 party collectives and seven committee programs, set to take place online and in-person throughout the month. The celebrations—which include some of Toronto’s biggest annual queer events including the Pride Parade, Trans Pride and Dyke Pride—wrap up on June 27. Some
BizBash •

Toronto Event Industry News Massey Hall Power Ball

TORONTO—Welcome to BizBash’s Toronto-based column, where Calvin Barr covers the week’s biggest local news. Got a tip? Get in touch! Moves & Milestones Strategy Daily: John Killam was named C.E.O. of Ogilvy Canada, following the retirement of long-time leader Laurie Young. The creative agency announced a global restructuring last year, eventually merging all of their shops under one core brand. Killam makes the move from the Omnicom Media Group, where he helped lead operations for the O.M.D. an