Stephen de Boer

OWIT-Toronto is proud to celebrate 25 years of championing women in international trade. Join us on November 13, 2025 (11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., venue TBC) for this milestone event, themed “Celebrating the Past, Looking Ahead.”

This special gathering will celebrate OWIT-Toronto’s impact and legacy over the past quarter century, while also creating a platform for forward-looking dialogue on global trade. The event will feature a keynote address by Stephen de Boer, Former Diplomat and Deputy Minister & Foreign and Defence Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister, who will provide valuable insights into the evolving trade landscape and future trends shaping Canadian and global business.

Stephen de Boer has had a distinguished career with the Government of Canada, most recently serving as Deputy Minister and Foreign and Defence Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister (2023–2025). Previously, he was Canada’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the World Trade Organization in Geneva, Assistant Deputy Minister of International Affairs at Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Canada’s Ambassador to Poland and Belarus. With over two decades of leadership in trade, climate, and foreign policy, Stephen brings a unique perspective on the intersection of policy, diplomacy, and business in shaping the future of international trade. 

This signature anniversary celebration will be an opportunity to connect, reflect, and look ahead together. Stay tuned for more details on venue and registration, and we look forward to seeing you there!