The CMBA-BC Future Forward Conference: Insights, connections and what’s next
More than 500 mortgage brokers and industry partners gathered at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver on April 7 and 8 in celebration of the annual Canadian Mortgage Brokers Association – British Columbia Conference & Trade Show. The event featured thought-provoking sessions and dynamic speakers who encouraged attendees to embrace a ‘future-forward’ mindset, while also prioritizing human connection.
“For me, the conference was all about the community,” attendee Kelly Curtis, Vice-President of the Mortgage Brokers Institute of British Columbia, shared with the CMBA-BC. “Talking shop with other brokers across the province reminded me that, even though we’re technically competitors, we’re also in this together, and there’s real power in shared experience.”
Kicking off this year’s conference was a keynote address from digital innovator and thought leader Kate O’Neill. Regarded as a ‘tech humanist,’ Kate emphasized the critical balance between digital transformation and human connection, challenging attendees to combine the efficiency of artificial intelligence with the authenticity of genuine human empathy.
Kate’s insights underscored a fundamental truth: while technology can streamline processes and expand possibilities, it cannot replicate the energy, spontaneity, and trust that come from face-to-face interactions — particularly in a realm as personal as mortgage brokering.
“In-person events in the mortgage industry aren’t just about learning; they’re about human connection in a business that’s deeply personal,” Kelly Curtis said. “The industry is built on relationships, and nothing replaces the energy of being face to face.”
Building on Kate’s message, next to the stage was real estate veteran and AI-thought leader Michael Thorne. Michael’s tech-focused presentation offered strategies for how brokers can leverage artificial intelligence to reclaim hours and streamline workflows. Moving beyond the fundamentals, Michael unpacked how, exactly, one can channel the power of ChatGPT’s intelligence and refine prompting techniques to achieve genuinely smart outcomes.
“For me, the most valuable takeaway from the conference was the implementing of AI,” attendee Hamasa Shir Mohammad shared with the CMBA-BC. “I didn’t realize we’re being encouraged to use it in our industry.”
In partnership with the CMBA-BC, Michael Thorne will be hosting a three-part AI workshop series, beginning May 5. For more information, click here.
The afternoon’s sessions continued with the theme of adaptation and resilience, beginning with a keynote presentation by behavioural finance expert Preet Banerjee, who shared valuable insights on improving ‘advice adherence’ and boosting referrals in times of economic uncertainty. Following Preet’s keynote, attendees enjoyed a Fireside Chat, where panelists Grant Armstrong, Trish Pigott, and Ryan W. Smith exchanged proven strategies for navigating today’s competitive market.
“The conference is a great environment to have a quick connection, exchange ideas, and learn from each other,” attendee Christian Amurao shared with CMBA-BC. “Seeing the speakers live is much better [than a webinar] — it’s kind of like watching a live concert rather than watching it on a screen.”
Following the educational sessions, Day One concluded with a robust Trade Show, featuring more than 55 exhibitors, followed by a lively social reception.
“In-person events like this are incredibly important for our industry,” CMBA-BC Vice-President Kyle Williams said. “You simply can’t replicate the energy, connection, and relationship-building that happens face-to-face.”
Christian Amurao agreed, adding that the event is invaluable for establishing new connections.
“I get to see the people we don’t normally see on our day-to-day operations and get the chance to meet new people, too,” he said. “It’s so valuable.”
Opening Day Two, health and wellness took centrestage with a standout keynote address from best-selling author and human physiologist, Dr. Greg Wells. In his session, Dr. Wells explored the science behind peak performance and emphasized the importance of quality sleep as a cornerstone of mental and physical well-being. Specifically, he advocated for “defending our last hour” of each day, using that time to unplug and reset.
“Before you fall asleep at night, I would like you to spend 60 minutes doing something that helps you to deactivate and calm down,” Dr. Wells said from the stage. “It might be taking a hot bath, journalling a little bit, reading some fiction — basically, off your tech. Don’t check your email. Don’t check interest rates. Don’t check the news. Do thing things that help you deactivate.”
Indeed, sustainable success, Dr. Wells said, isn’t about working harder, but working smarter — balancing intense performance with meaningful recovery. Practical takeaways included managing technology distractions, protecting sleep quality and recognizing rest as a necessity; not a luxury.
“One of the standout presentations for me was Dr. Wells’ session,” Kelly Curtis shared. “His insights around the science of sleep really hit home — not just professionally, but personally.”
The conference agenda continued with the inaugural Broker Book Club, where Rebecca Casey, Lee-Ann McEllister, Herjit Driver, Jennifer Watts, and Kyle Williams each presented the book that changed their life and shared how it shaped their business and professional development.
“Being a panelist this year was both fun and fulfilling,” said Kyle Williams, who shared insights from The Mindful Athlete: Secrets to Pure Performance by George Mumford. “I hope attendees were able to leave with a few valuable takeaways from our discussion.”
Up next, business strategist James Kirkwood presented a brand-building workshop with practical insights for how mortgage brokers can stand out, grow their business and secure long-term success. Resources from James’ workshop are available to members here.
Amidst the day’s activities, attendees gathered for the MB Awards luncheon. Celebrating excellence and innovation, the awards ceremony was a poignant reminder of the industry’s collective achievements and aspirations for the future.
CONGRATULATIONS to the MB Award Recipients!
The afternoon continued with a much-anticipated economic update from keynote presenter Brendon Ogmundson, chief economist of the BC Real Estate Association. In his presentation, ‘Stuck Between Stations,’ Brendon covered key topics — including employment rates, housing inventory, and tariffs — and their potential impact on Canada. Always insightful and engaging, Brendon offered a clear overview of past events shaping B.C.’s current economic climate, along with expectations for the months ahead.
The conference culminated in a lively lender panel, moderated by Dustan Woodhouse. Executive panelists Kristina Morrison, Imran Khokhar, Mark Gawehns, and Dwayne Schmidt convened to dissect market dynamics and predict future trends, offering attendees unparalleled insights into the pulse of the mortgage industry.
“Our business is about people, lenders, and partners,” Kelly Curtis said. “Events like these give us the chance to strengthen those relationships in a way you can’t do over the phone or on a Zoom call.”
As the CMBA-BC Future Forward Conference came to a close, attendees departed with renewed inspiration, meaningful connections, and practical strategies to navigate an ever-changing industry landscape. From discussions on digital transformation and human-centered engagement to insights on market shifts and business growth, the event underscored the importance of adaptability and forward thinking.
More than just a gathering, the conference served as a springboard for innovation — a space where professionals exchanged ideas, strengthened relationships, and set the stage for future success.
“Reconnecting with peers reminded me how valuable ongoing collaboration is,” Kelly Curtis shared. “Some of the best takeaways didn’t come from the stage, but from the hallway conversations.”
“In-person events like this are incredibly important for our industry,” Kyle Williams added. “You simply can’t replicate the energy, connection, and relationship-building that happens face-to-face.”
