This April, the Town of Okotoks will welcome business leaders, non-profits, educators, and community changemakers to the Okotoks Living Systems Summit, presented by Urban Systems. The Summit will take place April 13–15, 2026 at the Vikings Rental Centre, with both in‑person and virtual options available.
Designed to be practical, engaging, and human‑centred, the three‑day Summit invites participants into a dynamic mix of conversation, learning, and real‑world application. The focus is on how communities and organizations can work with complexity to build resilience, strengthen collaboration, and support long‑term well‑being.The program features sessions led by respected practitioners and thought leaders, including:
- Elder Reg Crowshoe, sharing a Blackfoot perspective on natural laws and governance systems
- Kate Raworth, exploring practical approaches to community‑level economics
- Dr. Paul Atkins, focused on collaboration, group effectiveness, and working across differences
- Michael H. Shuman, sharing actionable strategies for strengthening local economies
- Myrna Bittner, demonstrating how complex systems can be made visible and understandable with AI.
- Greg Hart, offering practical ways to see towns and organizations through a living systems lens.
- Rob Avis, exploring regenerative design approaches that turn problems into opportunities.
- Vaden Somers, highlighting how living systems principles shape youth mental health through Subnivean Farm’s work
Throughout the Summit, participants will take part in interactive sessions, facilitated roundtables, and practical discussions that encourage curiosity, shared learning, and honest dialogue.
The Okotoks Living Systems Summit reflects the Town’s commitment to fostering thoughtful conversation, cross‑sector collaboration, and innovative approaches to community resilience.
Learn more and register at https://www.okotoks.ca/living-systems-summit