First Departure Conference Speakers Announced

Organizers have confirmed the first wave of speakers for the inaugural Departure Festival + Conference happening May 6th to 11th, 2025. With four full days of programming, our reimagined conference at Hotel X Toronto builds on the legacy of Canadian Music Week to bring together the global creative industry to celebrate the intersection of music, art, comedy, and technology.

Conference Programming To Date:

• Canadian chef, restaurateur, actor/executive producer of the Emmy Award-winning hit show The Bear, Matty Matheson.
• Legendary music superstar Bryan Adams, in collaboration with Radiodays North America.
• Leader and veteran in the sports and entertainment industry Tim Leiweke, Chairman & CEO of Oak View Group (OVG).
• One of music journalism’s most revered voices and viral Rap Radar Podcast co-host, Brian “B.Dot” Miller in conversation with Grammy-nominated record producer T-Minus.
• Trailblazer and advocate for Indigenous voices Shayla Stonechild; Emmy Award-winning music supervisor Matt Biffa (Sex Education, Hacks, and Harry Potter); renowned photographer and creative director Danny Hastings; and internationally recognized crisis communications expert Molly McPherson.
• An innovative new partnership with Elevate synergizing the tech and entertainment industries — with Elevate Co-Founder and CEO Lisa Zarzeczny; GM of Snapchat Canada Matt McGowan; and President of Visibility Media and former Global Head of Riot Games Music Toa Dunn set as first tech speakers.

Plus, Priority Pass delegates get standby access to select Premium events, including Mustafa, Death From Above 1979, Tia Wood, Avenoir, Papooz, Rural Alberta Advantage, Freak Heat Waves, Bria Salmena, and YHWH Nailgun, with additional Premium shows to be announced.

Stay tuned for additional conference announcements and details on Departure’s Music and Comedy Festival featuring curated showcases included in your Priority or Conference Pass.

Secure your Departure Priority or Conference Pass today. Prices increase on February 14th. Flexible payment options available.