Unforgettable community discussions and respectful, inclusive debates
The Salt Spring Forum brings diverse perspectives on important issues to a community known for its civic engagement and openness to new ideas.
The Forum has hosted some of the world's leading authors, artists, scientists, political leaders and activists. Our annual speaker series and members-only salons present thought-provoking discussions on some of the greatest issues of our times.
Forum events take place in a truly participatory discussion format that ensures respectful dialogue, a wide-range of perspectives and ideas, and mutual learning.
We invite you to learn more about the Salt Spring Forum. The best way to become involved is to attend one of our many events. We also encourage you to become a member and support our work with a tax-deductible donation.
JOIN US AT OUR NEXT INSPIRING EVENT
Catherine McKenna
Former Canadian Federal Minister of the Environment and Climate Change
Run Like a Girl: Ambition, Resilience and Fighting for Change
Fulford Hall 7:30pm February 21
Tickets available HERE
Catherine McKenna has never been one to take the easy path. Long before she became Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, she was the woman who kept being told she was “too ambitious,” “too outspoken,” or simply “too much.”
In Ottawa, she found herself at the center of some of the hardest fights in public life: negotiating the country’s Paris Agreement commitments, putting a national price on pollution, and facing down the political backlash that came with pushing for change. Whether standing before the world at the United Nations or cycling to events where angry protestors would be shouting her name, McKenna learned that progress isn’t made by those who wait — it’s made by those who show up.
Today, as the founder of Climate and Nature Solutions, she advises governments and global institutions on how to turn climate promises into concrete action. But the heart of her mission hasn’t changed: empowering people — especially women and girls — to step forward, claim their voice, and lead.
In her book Run Like a Girl: Ambition, Resilience, and Fighting for Change (Sutherland House, 2025), McKenna shares not just what she accomplished, but what it felt like. Her story is an invitation — to be bold, to take risks, and to run toward the future we need.
Please join the Salt Spring Forum and Catherine McKenna for a candid discussion about climate solutions, leadership, resilience and perseverance.
Salt Spring Forum is grateful for our sponsors Ganges Village Marketplace and Island Savings and for support from Harbour House Hotel, Auntie Pesto’s and Harbour Air.
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The Forum has hosted some of the world's leading intellectuals, activists, political leaders, and thinkers.
““I am proud of what Forum does. And feel enlightened, broadened, glad to hear the unvarnished experiences of the speakers...” ”