Call for Proposals

The deadline for applications is:
Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Symposium Overview

The Canadian Risk and Hazards Network (CRHNet) is proud to announce the return of its annual symposium, bringing together practitioners, emerging professionals, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders dedicated to advancing resilience across Canada.

The Symposium will take place from May 12-15, 2026 at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Edmonton, Alberta. NAIT is located on Treaty Six territory, a traditional homeland for the First Nations and Métis Peoples, and today we acknowledge that all of us are part of treaty land. The traditional name is Amiskwaciy Waskahikan [A-misk-wu-chee-wah-sku-hee-gun], which is also known as the City of Edmonton.

This year’s theme “Living the Lessons: From Impact to Insight” reflects a growing urgency to not only learn the lessons of the past but evolve our approach to disaster risk reduction to prepare for a more uncertain future. The time for incremental improvement has passed. From wildfires and floods to pandemics and cascading system failures, we are living through an era of compounding risks and profound disruption. To meet this moment, we must turn impact into insight, and insight into action in order to build stronger, more inclusive communities.

We invite you to submit a proposal that reflects your work, research, or experience in advancing resilience and learning from disruption through sessions designed to spark conversation and encourage participation from all attendees.

This call for proposal describes the themes, session types, and submission guidelines.

The deadline for applications is Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Symposium Details

Themes

The following themes will guide the development of the symposium program. They are intended to spark ideas, not limit them. If your proposal doesn’t fit neatly into one of these categories — that’s okay. We welcome diverse perspectives and emerging topics that challenge conventional thinking and expand the conversation.

Theme: Indigenous Knowledge and Leadership

Indigenous communities bring deep-rooted knowledge systems, leadership, and resilience to emergency management. This theme invites proposals that centre Indigenous approaches and distinction-based practices in reducing risk and strengthening communities.

Possible topics include:

Indigenous ways of knowing and knowledge systems
Fostering cultural safety and respectful engagement
Distinction-based approaches to risk and resilience
Indigenous leadership in action

Theme: Community-Led Resilience and Inclusion

Resilience is built from the ground up. This theme highlights community-driven efforts, lived experiences, and inclusive practices that strengthen preparedness and recovery across diverse populations.

Possible topics include:

Case studies of community preparedness, adaptation, response, or recovery
Elevating marginalized voices
Inclusive practices in emergency management
Stories and lived experiences from the frontlines

Theme: Technology, Data, and Innovation

From predictive analytics to grassroots data collection, technology is reshaping how we understand and respond to risk. This theme explores emerging tools, bold ideas, and transformative approaches to disaster risk reduction.

Possible topics include:

Emerging technologies in disaster risk reduction
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics
Crowdsourced and community-generated data
Systemic change, radical transformation, and future-oriented planning

Theme: Understanding Risk and Reducing Impact

Effective disaster risk reduction begins with understanding risk. This theme focuses on how we assess, interpret, and communicate hazard and risk information to drive decision-making and meaningful action.

Possible topics include:

Risk assessment methods and findings
Integrating science and local knowledge
Translating insight into policy and practice

Session Types

The symposium will feature a range of session formats designed to share knowledge, showcase new ideas, and promote meaningful dialogue. Whether presenting research, sharing lived experience, or facilitating discussion, we welcome proposals that not only inform but also engage — sparking conversation and creating space to learn from one another.

While formats may vary, most proposals will align with one of the categories listed below. If you envision something different, feel free to contact us at symposium@crhnet.ca. We invite creative approaches that connect delegates and inspire fresh thinking on complex challenges.

Presentations

Structured sessions that run 30–45 minutes, ideal for sharing research, policy insights, new initiatives, or lessons with time for discussion.

Lightning Talks

Short, focused presentations of 5–7 minutes. Talks will be grouped by theme and followed by facilitated discussion. This format is ideal for sharing key insights, provocative ideas, or emerging work.

Poster Presentations

Visual summaries of projects, programs, or research initiatives. Posters will be displayed during dedicated times for informal conversation and delegate engagement.
Note: Presenters may also opt to pair a poster with a lightning talk to briefly introduce their work to a wider audience.

Panel Discussions

Moderated conversations of 45–60 minutes, featuring multiple speakers offering complementary or contrasting perspectives. Formats may include storytelling, thematic exploration, or facilitated dialogue. Panels should include time for delegate questions and reflection. Panels require a moderator and minimum of 3 speakers.

Storytelling Sessions

Personal or community-based narratives delivered in 30–45 minute sessions that offer insight into resilience, recovery, or innovation. These sessions prioritize lived experience and community connection. Storytelling may incorporate narrative techniques, reflective analysis, or multimedia elements to illuminate complex issues and lived experience.

Interactive & Co-Creation Sessions

Participatory formats delivered in 60-90 minutes that invite delegates to collaborate, reflect, or build something together. Examples include workshops, world cafes or dialogue circles, design labs, or experiential sessions that use art or design to explore themes in innovative ways. Proposals should include a clear plan for engagement.

We encourage proposals that are evidence-informed, forward-thinking, and relevant across sectors. Sessions should be inclusive, engaging, and designed with diverse learning styles and accessibility in mind.

Submission Guidelines

Submission Requirements

All session proposals must include:

A written summary (up to 300 words for presentations, storytelling, posters, and lightning talks; up to 500 words for panels and interactive/co-creation sessions) that outlines the topic, goals or objectives, relevance to the conference theme, a brief explanation of the significance of the work for policy or practice, and intended audience takeaways.
A description of the session format and approach (while presenters can use slides, alternative formats are encouraged).
An indication of whether the session is intended for virtual, in-person, or hybrid delivery.
A plan for audience engagement.

Additional Requirements by Session Type:

Panel Discussions: Must include a moderator and at least three speakers. Each panelist’s contribution should be described in up to 100 words.
Interactive and Co-Creation Sessions: Include names and roles of contributors, methods to encourage participation, and any materials, setup needs, or accessibility considerations for the session.
Poster and Lightning Talks: You may submit a proposal for a poster, a lightning talk, or both. If the poster proposal is accepted, the conference committee will follow up with detailed guidance on poster format requirements.

Presenter Expectations and Logistics

We ask all presenters to help promote an inclusive, engaging, and thoughtful environment for learning and exchange. Whether sharing research, lived experience, or creative ideas, presenters are expected to:

Encourage dialogue and participation: Leave time for questions, discussion, and delegate engagement.
Deliver inclusive and engaging presentations: Use clear language, consider diverse learning styles, and present in a well-rehearsed, professional manner that reflects the diversity of delegates.
Ensure relevance and impact: Content should be evidence-informed, forward-thinking, and applicable across sectors, with clear practical value for delegates.
Respect time limits: Stay within your allotted time to support smooth transitions and ensure all voices are heard.
Maintain a non-commercial focus: Presentations must not promote specific products, services, or financial interests.

Session Delivery & Format

Most sessions run 30–60 minutes, including time for discussion.
Lightning talks are 5–7 minutes and grouped by theme.
Poster sessions will be held during dedicated times for informal conversation.
Interactive and co-creation sessions may vary in structure but must include a clear plan for participation.

Presenters are encouraged to use audio-visual aids to enhance—not overshadow—their content. Presenters will be asked to share their materials in advance to avoid potential delays or technology issues during the symposium.

Hybrid Participation

The symposium will include both in-person and online components. Please specify your preferred format and availability when submitting your proposal. Some sessions may be selected for hybrid delivery; organizers will work with presenters to support accessibility and engagement across formats.

Technical and Logistical Support

Basic audio/visual equipment will be provided for in-person sessions, including a screen, microphone, podium, and clicker.
Presenters are required to bring their own laptops or tablets. Rooms accept either USB-C or HDMI connections; the symposium committee can provide adapters if needed.
If you require special materials, setup, technology, or accessibility accommodations, please indicate that in your proposal.
Online presenters will receive guidance on using the virtual platform.

Note: Additional requests are subject to facility requirements and accessibility.

Submitting a Proposal

We welcome proposals from individuals, teams, and organizations working across disaster risk reduction, research, policy, community leadership, and beyond. You do not need to have presented at a conference before — we encourage submissions from both new and experienced voices.

How to Submit

All proposals must be submitted through the online submission form. Submissions that are incomplete and/or submitted after the deadline will not be reviewed.
You’ll be asked to select a session format and provide the required details described above in the Submission Requirements section.
Please ensure your proposal includes all required components.

Key Dates

Proposal deadline: November 2, 2025
Notification of acceptance: TBD
- Note: All submitters will be notified if their proposal has been accepted

Questions?

If you have questions about the submission process or need support, please contact symposium@crhnet.ca.

Accessibility and Inclusion

We are committed to creating a symposium that is inclusive, welcoming, and accessible to all participants — whether attending in person or online. We recognize that accessibility goes beyond physical space and includes communication, participation, and representation.

For Presenters

Please consider accessibility in your presentation materials and delivery (e.g., clear visuals, plain language, verbal descriptions of images).
If your session includes interactive elements, ensure they are inclusive and adaptable to different needs.
Let us know if you require any accommodations to participate fully.

For Sessions

The symposium venue is a fully accessible building. Gendered and single-stall washrooms are available on every level.
Online sessions will include features such as captioning and screen reader compatibility where possible.

Support and Accommodations

If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact [insert contact info] so we can work with you to ensure a positive experience.
We encourage presenters to reach out early so we can plan accordingly.

Recommended Resources for Inclusive and Accessible Presentations

Evaluation criteria

All proposals will be reviewed by the symposium planning committee. We aim to curate a program that reflects diverse perspectives, disciplines, and experiences — and that promotes meaningful dialogue and learning.

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Relevance to the symposium theme
Clarity and coherence of the proposal, with a well-defined focus
Contribution to knowledge and practice in Canada through fresh ideas, practical insights, or actionable takeaways
Potential to spark dialogue or engage the audience interactively
Relevance, timeliness, and educational value of the content for delegates

In addition to evaluating individual proposals, the Planning Committee will curate a balanced and inclusive program that reflects a diversity of perspectives, disciplines, and career stages. We welcome proposals from individuals at all career stages and from all sectors — including community leaders, researchers, practitioners, students, and others working to advance disaster risk reduction in Canada.

FAQs

Do I need to be a CRHNet member to submit a proposal?

No, you do not need to be a CRHNet Member to submit a proposal. However, CRHNet members receive a discount on registration fees. If you would like to become a CRHNet member, sign up here: link.

Do speakers get free registration or an honoraria?

All delegates, including speakers, must register to attend the conference. The registration fee covers materials, facilities, food and coffee breaks, services and support for all participants. Speakers get a discount of $50 off registration pricing.

Speaker discounts are not offered to poster session presenters.

CRHNet does not reimburse expenses or travel for attendees.

Do I need to submit my final materials ahead of the conference?

Yes. If your proposal is accepted, more details will be provided about the deadline for submitting all materials. This allows conference volunteers to pre-load presentations and reduce the likelihood of technology issues while also providing materials in an accessible format to attendees upon request, in support of CRHNet’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

If you have questions, please submit them to symposium@crhnet.ca

The deadline for applications is:
Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Symposium Overview

Symposium Details

Themes

Session Types

Presentations

Lightning Talks

Poster Presentations

Panel Discussions

Storytelling Sessions

Interactive & Co-Creation Sessions

Submission Guidelines

Submission Requirements

Presenter Expectations and Logistics

Submitting a Proposal

Accessibility and Inclusion

Evaluation criteria

FAQs

Submit Proposal

Primary Presenter

Presentation

Consent

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CRHNet Emerging Professionals Group

@CRHNet / #CRHNet

CRHNet Group

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The deadline for applications is: Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Symposium Overview

Symposium Details

Themes

Session Types

Presentations

Lightning Talks

Poster Presentations

Panel Discussions

Storytelling Sessions

Interactive & Co-Creation Sessions

Submission Guidelines

Submission Requirements

Presenter Expectations and Logistics

Submitting a Proposal

Accessibility and Inclusion

Evaluation criteria

FAQs

Submit Proposal

Primary Presenter

Presentation

Consent

The deadline for applications is:
Sunday, November 2, 2025.