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Mark your calendars, privacy pros — 28 Jan. is around the corner and it's going to be pretty exciting.

Data Privacy Day is celebrated around the world, but this year, Canadian IAPP volunteers are taking it to the next level. For the first time ever, we're hosting a truly pan-Canadian KnowledgeNet event that brings together privacy professionals from coast to coast. And we're not just talking about a few Zoom squares on your screen — this is an in-person celebration with a national twist.

Here's the idea: one dynamic panel discussion, streamed simultaneously to local chapters across the country. That means whether you’re in Vancouver, Victoria, Regina, Waterloo, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, St. John's — or anywhere in between — you'll be part of the same conversation at the same time. It's like a privacy super-connector, and you're invited.

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The theme? Beyond the chaos: Practical application of AI governance.

AI is everywhere, and so are the questions about how to govern it responsibly. Our expert panel will tackle the hard stuff: balancing innovation with risk, implementing governance frameworks that actually work, and sharing practical strategies you can take back to your organization. No fluff — just actionable insights from some of the best minds in the field.

And because we know privacy folks love a good discussion, the learning doesn't stop when the panel ends. Each local chapter will host interactive conversations to dig deeper into what was shared. It's a chance to swap ideas, debate approaches and maybe even discover a new way forward together. Plus, all those key takeaways will be compiled into a handy resource for use long after the event.

Why should you join?

  • It's a meaningful way to celebrate Data Privacy Day.
  • You'll earn continuing education credits — hello, CPE.
  • You'll connect in person with peers who care about the same challenges you do.
  • And yes, there will be food — thanks to Deloitte for generously hosting and fueling the conversation.

And here's a bonus reason: the panel will be moderated by Constantine Karbaliotis, a nNovation lawyer and long-time privacy pro. Anyone who knows Constantine knows that every ounce of meaningful, practical advice he gives, comes with an equal dose of humor. And by humor, we mean real cringy dad jokes — the kind that make you groan and laugh at the same time. If you've ever wondered what AI governance and dad jokes have in common, this is your chance to find out.

So, whether you're curious about AI governance, eager for professional development, or just ready to get out from behind your laptop and talk privacy face-to-face, this is the event for you.

28 Jan. One panel. One country. Countless conversations. Don't miss this chance to be part of something truly unique in the Canadian privacy community.

Kris Klein, CIPP/C, CIPM, FIP, is the country leader, Canada, for the IAPP.

This article originally appeared in the Canada Dashboard Digest, a free weekly IAPP newsletter. Subscriptions to this and other IAPP newsletters can be found here.