The Lineup Grows: New Sessions Unveiled for The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada is thrilled to unveil new sessions and featured speakers joining us for the 2026 Summit on May 28 at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto.

This is where the Canadian entertainment industry’s most influential voices come together for one extraordinary day of bold conversations, invaluable networking, and inspiring moments you simply won’t find anywhere else. 

Just announced programming includes:

THE WOMEN WHO RUN THE SHOW

This conversation brings together top Canadian showrunners to explore the creative and strategic decisions behind their shows. As leaders in an industry where women have historically been underrepresented at the helm, they will also reflect on the realities of building and sustaining careers at the highest level — and how their perspectives are helping to redefine what leadership in television looks like today.

Marsha Greene
Co-Creator and Showrunner
The Porter
Nelu Handa
Showrunner and Writer
Jennifer Podemski
Actor, Showrunner, Director, Founder & CEO
The Shine Network Institute
Roma Roth
Showrunner, Executive Producer, Director, President & CEO
Reel World Management
Photo credit: Michael Roud Photography
Kat Sandler
Writer and Showrunner
YAGA

In Partnership With

Blink49 Studios

IN CONVERSATION WITH RACHEL REID & EXCLUSIVE BOOK SIGNING

Join acclaimed New York Times bestselling author of Heated RivalryRachel Reid, when she sits down with  Jacob Tierney Creator of Heated Rivalry for an exclusive Feature Conversation. Don’t miss the chance to hear Reid offer insight into her creative journey, the evolution of her work, and the broader implications of storytelling in today’s media landscape.

📢 We’re excited to announce that the first 100 delegates to check in to the event on May 28 will receive a complimentary copy of Reid’s Heated Rivalry. Directly following her Feature Conversation, Reid will be on hand to sign copies of her book.  This is your chance to get a piece of Canadian history! 

Jacob Tierney
Creator
Heated Rivalry
Rachel Reid
Changemaker Award Honouree
Photo credit: Caleb Latreille

GOING DIRECT: WOMEN AT THE RISE OF VIDEO PODCASTING IN CANADA

Video podcasting has emerged as a powerful entry point into a new pathway for IP creation, brand partnerships, and cross-platform expansion. This session spotlights a group of leading Canadian women at the forefront of this movement — creators, entrepreneurs, and on-screen talent who are not only adapting to change, but creating scalable media businesses in real time, offering an essential look at where the industry is headed — and who is leading the way.

Sarah Burke
Broadcaster, Executive Producer and Founder
Women in Media Network
Photo credit: Lindsay Duncan
Josie Dye
Radio, TV and Podcast Host
Jax Irwin
Radio and Television Host, Digital Creator and Podcaster
Sangita Patel
Award-Winning Television Personality
Photo credit: Vicki Bartel
Shayla Oulette Stonechild
Global Yoga Ambassador, Author & Podcast, Host, Founder & CEO
Matriarch Movement
Shannon Burns
National Midday Host of Virgin Radio and Entertainment Correspondent
iHeart Radio Canada

In Partnership With

iHeart Radio Canada

The full schedule launches next week, featuring even more industry leaders and exciting guests!

Tickets are selling quickly and capacity is limited.  Visit womeninentertainment.ca for more information and to purchase your pass today.

For reserved tables or for other partnership opportunities please contact: [email protected].

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