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2026 CAZA Annual Conference

Shared Visions: Leading Welfare and Biodiversity Together

St-Félicien, Québec
Hosted by Zoo sauvage de St-Félicien
September 14–18, 2026

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Shared Vision, nordic heart. 

A collective reflection on the future of animal welfare and biodiversity, rooted in the heart of Québec’s nordicity : an authentic territory shaped by nature, collaboration, and local pride. Meet the people of the blueberry country, experience a deeply rooted culture, distinctive know-how, and breathtaking landscapes that inspire innovation and collaborative leadership.

A collective reflection on the future of animal welfare and biodiversity, rooted in the heart of Québec’s nordicity : an authentic territory shaped by nature, collaboration, and local pride. Meet the people of the blueberry country, experience a deeply rooted culture, distinctive know-how, and breathtaking landscapes that inspire innovation and collaborative leadership.

Join Canada’s zoo and aquarium community for three days of connection, learning, and collaboration in the heart of Québec. The 2026 conference will bring together professionals from across the country to share knowledge, celebrate achievements, and look ahead to the future of animal care, conservation, and education.

Discover What Awaits

  • Insightful keynote speakers and industry experts
  • Meaningful networking with peers from across Canada
  • An energizing atmosphere to reconnect and be inspired
  • Recognition of excellence across the community
  • Exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences

CAZA Conference Registration

Secure your spot for three days of connection, learning, and collaboration with Canada’s zoo and aquarium community.

REGISTER TODAY

Conference Registration

Secure your spot for three days of connection, learning, and collaboration with Canada’s zoo and aquarium community.

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2026 CAZA Conference Overview

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Tuesday Sept 15th

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CAZA CONFERENCE ICEBREAKER!

Whisky & Blues

Get ready for a curated Canadian whisky tasting led by Davin de Kergommeaux, Canada’s foremost whisky expert and author of Canadian Whisky: The Portable Expert. Pair that with the live blues entertainment of Dwane Dixon., and you’ve got bold flavours, soulful music, and the perfect atmosphere to connect and unwind.

Whisky. Blues. CAZA. Let’s Break the Ice.

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Tuesday Sept 15th

JOIN US

CAZA CONFERENCE ICEBREAKER!

Whisky & Blues

Get ready for a curated Canadian whisky tasting led by Davin de Kergommeaux, Canada’s foremost whisky expert and author of Canadian Whisky: The Portable Expert. Pair that with the live blues entertainment of Dwane Dixon., and you’ve got bold flavours, soulful music, and the perfect atmosphere to connect and unwind.

Whisky. Blues. CAZA. Let’s Break the Ice.

Join the Icebreaker

Inspiring Conference Speakers

Hear from experts and leaders across the zoo and aquarium community. Our speakers will share fresh ideas, practical insights, and real-world experiences to inspire and support your work.

Cynthia leads strategic operations, conservation initiatives, and organizational growth at one of Virginia’s premier attractions. She also serves as Vice President of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), helping shape international collaboration and policy for accredited zoos and aquariums worldwide.
Cynthia Whitbred-SpanoulisCEO of the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and Executive Director of the Virginia Aquarium Foundation.
Cynthia Whitbred-Spanoulis
Emiko is an experienced zoological veterinarian who has dedicated much of her career to the education, conservation, and research missions of the Montréal Biodôme. She currently leads conservation programs and species recovery initiatives while overseeing animal collections, bringing extensive expertise in animal welfare, accreditation, and biodiversity conservation.
Emiko WongHead Scientific Advisor for Wildlife Conservation and Veterinarian at the Biodôme
Emiko Wong
Jill leads the Global Humane Society's conservation and animal welfare initiatives. For more than a decade, she has helped develop internationally recognized certification programs for zoos, aquariums, and ecotourism operations, advancing humane and ethical practices in nearly 100 institutions across more than 20 countries.
Jill NizanAssociate Vice President of Conservation at the Global Humane Society
Jill Nizan
Dean dedicated 42 years to the Edmonton Valley Zoo, advancing from zookeeper to Operations Supervisor before retiring in 2021. Since 2022, he has served as Accreditation Manager for the Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums, supporting excellence across Canada’s zoo and aquarium community, while pursuing his passion for wildlife photography.
Dean TreichelAccreditation Manager for Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums
Dean Treichel
Frédéric has over 30 years of experience in the tourism industry, having worked with organizations including Club Med, VIA Rail Canada, Tremblant, and Le Massif de Charlevoix. For the past 15 years, he has helped tourism businesses embrace digital marketing, social media, and AI through consulting, training, and speaking engagements.
Frédéric GonzaloBusiness Owner at Gonzo Marketing
Frédéric Gonzalo
Catherine is a Master’s student in Water Sciences at the Institut national de la recherche scientifique, specializing in environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor biodiversity and detect both sensitive and invasive species. Passionate about wildlife conservation, she aims to apply her research to protect natural ecosystems and promote biodiversity awareness.
Catherine DubucMasters Student in Water Sciences at the Institut national de la recherche scientifique
Catherine Dubuc
David has held roles in education and animal care for over a decade and now leads conservation and education initiatives while serving as North American Regional Representative for the International Zoo Educators Association.
David PagéDirector of Conservation and Education at the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien
David Pagé
Fidji's work uses environmental DNA (eDNA) and other innovative tools to monitor ecosystems, assess the impacts of contaminants on wildlife, and support conservation efforts in a changing world.
Fidji SandréEnvironmental Science Researcher at the Institut national de la recherche scientifique,
Fidji Sandré
Joanie is Assistant General Director of Animal Care and Operations at the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien. With 23 years of experience at the Zoo in roles ranging from animal health technician to Director of Animal Care, she brings extensive expertise in animal welfare, operations, and organizational leadership.
Joanie BoudreaultAssistant General Director of Animal Care and Operations at the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien
Joanie Boudreault
Louis has served as General Director of the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien since 2025, bringing more than 20 years of experience in finance, operations, and organizational leadership. A Chartered Professional Accountant, he is actively involved in regional tourism and economic development initiatives, with a strong focus on community engagement and sustainable growth.
Louis BouchardGeneral Director of the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien
Louis Bouchard
Marie-Pierre is Director of Conservation and Diving Officer at the Aquarium du Québec, where she leads marine conservation initiatives focused on species protection, ecosystem health, and environmental stewardship. A passionate advocate for ocean conservation, she also educates divers and supports community efforts to remove waste from waterways and protect marine habitats.
Marie-PierreDirector of Conservation and Diving Officer at the Aquarium du Québec
Marie-Pierre
Menita is Director of Animal Care and Deputy General Manager at the Greater Vancouver Zoo, where she oversees animal care operations, conservation programs, and organizational leadership. With more than 20 years of experience in the zoological field, she is nationally recognized for advancing animal welfare, species conservation, and public engagement.
Menita PrasadDirector of Animal Care and Deputy General Manager at the Greater Vancouver Zoo
Menita Prasad

CAZA Conference Venue

We are pleased to welcome delegates to the 2026 CAZA Annual Conference in the beautiful city of Saint-Félicien. This year’s event will take place at Hôtel du Jardin, offering attendees a unique setting in the heart of one of Québec’s most recognized wildlife destinations.

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Exclusive Zoo Day Savings for CAZA Conference Attendees

On Zoo Day, all CAZA Annual Conference attendees can enjoy 20% OFF purchases at the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien souvenir gift shop and dairy shop. Be sure to stop by and take home a special souvenir—or a delicious local treat!

Exclusive Zoo Day Savings for CAZA Conference Attendees

On Zoo Day, all CAZA Annual Conference attendees can enjoy 20% OFF purchases at the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien souvenir gift shop and dairy shop. Be sure to stop by and take home a special souvenir—or a delicious local treat!

Wednesday Sept 16th

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CAZA CONFERENCE Team Building Dinner!

Dance. Drive. Putt.

Enjoy an evening of team-building, friendly competition, and great company at our outdoor casual dinner. Kick back in your cowboy boots, enjoy country music and line dancing, challenge your colleagues to a round of mini putt, and savour delicious favourites from a famous French-Canadian food truck. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, reconnect, and make lasting memories.

Sponsored by Ville de Saint-Félicien and Zoo Sauvage de Saint-Félicien.

Wednesday Sept 16th

JOIN US

CAZA CONFERENCE Team Building Dinner!

Dance. Drive. Putt.

Enjoy an evening of team-building, friendly competition, and great company at our outdoor casual dinner. Kick back in your cowboy boots, enjoy country music and line dancing, challenge your colleagues to a round of mini putt, and savour delicious favourites from a famous French-Canadian food truck. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, reconnect, and make lasting memories.

Sponsored by Ville de Saint-Félicien and Zoo Sauvage de Saint-Félicien.

Celebrate Excellence at the CAZA Awards Gala & Dinner

Awards and Recognition Gala and Dinner from 6pm – 10pm proudly sponsored by African Lion Safari.

Awards Cocktail Reception from 5pm – 6pm sponsored by Parc Safari.

Help recognize the individuals and institutions making a meaningful impact in animal welfare, conservation, education, and science. Nomination deadline: July 31.

Submit a Nomination

Celebrate Excellence at the CAZA Awards Gala & Dinner

Awards and Recognition Gala and Dinner from 6pm – 10pm proudly sponsored by African Lion Safari.

Awards Cocktail Reception from 5pm – 6pm sponsored by Parc Safari.

Help recognize the individuals and institutions making a meaningful impact in animal welfare, conservation, education, and science. Nomination deadline: July 31.

Submit a Nomination

Accessibility Services Proudly Sponsored by Little Ray's Nature Centre

CAZA is grateful to Little Ray’s Nature Centre for proudly sponsoring live translation and accessibility services at this year’s CAZA conference, helping ensure a more inclusive and accessible experience for all attendees.

Accessibility Services Proudly Sponsored by Little Ray's Nature Centre

CAZA is grateful to Little Ray’s Nature Centre for proudly sponsoring live translation and accessibility services at this year’s CAZA conference, helping ensure a more inclusive and accessible experience for all attendees.

Thank You to Our 2026 Conference Sponsors

Elite Sponsor

Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) - Froyo Bros

Gold Sponsor

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Silver Sponsor

Supporters

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CAZA Friend

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Join us in making a difference for Canada’s wildlife.

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2026 CAZA Conference Overview

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CAZA Annual Conference

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