Curious about allyship?
Join CYAN and the Bow Valley Pride Network for a relaxed, welcoming evening focused on allyship.
In this open conversation, you’ll hear directly from members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community about their lived experiences, with honest reflections on what support felt like when it mattered, what missed the mark, and what helped them feel safe, seen, and respected - along with clear, practical ways you can support 2SLGBTQIA+ people in your everyday life.
This event is for anyone who wants to show up better for others, whether you’re straight, cisgender, questioning, or part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community yourself. It’s beginner-friendly, low-pressure, and open to wherever you’re starting from.
The evening will begin with a few light icebreakers to help everyone settle in and feel comfortable, followed by a facilitated panel conversation. You’ll hear personal stories, gain practical insights, and have the option to ask questions or simply listen. The session is designed to be interactive, but there’s no pressure to participate beyond your comfort level.
Held at Stonewaters Spaces (306 Bow Valley Trail, next to Cam Clark Ford), the setting is calm, cozy, and designed for relaxed conversation, with comfortable seating throughout. A big thank you to Stonewaters Spaces for generously donating the venue and providing light refreshments for the evening.
Light refreshments will be available, and attendees will receive a takeaway handout with helpful resources and ways to continue learning and supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ communities beyond the session.
No preparation needed - just come as you are. You’re welcome to bring a notebook if you’d like to jot down reflections or resources.
Accessibility
Stonewaters Spaces is physically accessible via the southeast entrance, and there is a gender-neutral, accessible washroom on site. Please note that the session may include personal stories and discussions around identity and lived experience. If you have specific access needs, you can reach out in advance to programscyan@gmail.com.
About the facilitator
Facilitated by Makaylah Rogers who is a queer, non-binary speaker and facilitator dedicated to creating empathy-driven action and change. They/he co-own Frankie D’s Donuts and Scale Naturally with their wife, Fia-Lynn Crandall. Makaylah has a warm, welcoming style, and creates a comfortable atmosphere for asking questions and sharing personal experiences.
About the panelists
Camille Santiago is a Filipino-born, Australian/Canadian photographer and graphic designer based in Canmore, AB, and is a member of our queer Bow Valley community.
Randi Klein is a professional interpretive hiking guide and loving cat parent, with a background in ecotourism and outdoor leadership.
Rye Wise is a BanffLIFE coordinator and IGA Professional Interpreter who leads monthly guided hikes in the Rockies they call “home”. They’ve traveled much of the globe helping people to open their hearts to new places, experiences, and identities.
Brittany Pack is a queer researcher and climber who is completing their bachelor of social work. They were raised in Newfoundland, but are currently based out of Calgary, Alberta. You can usually find them crushing snacks in the alpine.
Questions?
Please reach out to our Programs Manager at programscyan@gmail.com.
Community & Inclusion
You are always welcome to attend CYAN events on your own - many people do! Our event staff are there to support you, and we often use light icebreakers to help everyone feel comfortable and included.
While CYAN’s programming is designed with young adults in mind, everyone is welcome to attend our events, except events involving alcohol, which are 18+ only.
Media Release
Photograph and video may be taken at this event. Please contact us or speak with our event staff upon arrival if you do not wish to be photographed.
Funding
Thank you the Town of Canmore for supporting our How to Series.
Please register ahead
Event may be subject to cancellation if we do not receive enough registrations, so please register ahead by April 22 to secure your spot.
Communication
Reminder emails with important information may be sent to you through Eventbrite. Please check your inbox (including your junkmail) 48 hours prior to the event.
Refund/Cancellation Policy: Please note that all ticket sales are final. Refunds will only be issued in the event of cancellation by the organizer. *This event is Free, donations are welcome.