Advocating & Connecting at Chamber Conferences

Collaboration, Policy, and Connection in Nanaimo

Last week, the Tofino Chamber of Commerce joined chamber leaders from across the province in Nanaimo for two impactful gatherings: the Chamber of Commerce Executives of BC (CCECB) Conference & AGM and the 73rd Annual General Meeting and Conference of the BC Chamber of Commerce (BCCC).

Executive Director Samantha Hackett attended both events, representing Tofino and advocating for the unique needs of our coastal business community. These conferences provided a valuable platform to connect with fellow Chamber executives, policy leaders, and government representatives, and to bring our local voice to provincial conversations shaping the future of business in British Columbia.

BC Chamber Executives in Nanaimo at the Chamber of Commerce Executives of BC AGM & Conference

Chamber Executives Conference (CCECB)
The CCEBC Conference focused on capacity-building for Chamber professionals. Sessions explored best practices in membership value, board governance, communications, and leadership—all with the goal of strengthening how Chambers can serve their members. For the Tofino Chamber, it was an opportunity to learn from peers, share experiences, and return home with fresh ideas for supporting local business resilience, volunteerism, and economic collaboration.

Tofino Chamber of Commerce Board Members Nik, Eric, Marianne, and Executive Director Samantha, at BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference

BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference
Next the BCCC event brought together BC delegates under the theme “Stronger Together: Building the Future of Business through Collaboration.” The event included thought-provoking sessions from industry experts, meaningful dialogue with government and caucus members, and one of the most critical elements: the annual policy debate and resolution process.

This year, 40 policy resolutions were brought forward by 16 Chambers and Boards of Trade. After extensive discussion and debate, 38 were approved and will inform the BC Chamber’s advocacy priorities for the coming year. Key themes included labour and immigration, housing, health care, crime, regulatory reform, and small business support—issues that deeply resonate in rural and remote communities like Tofino.

Samantha Hackett, Executive Director, advocating on the floor during the policy session on behalf of Tofino businesses

Why It Matters for Tofino
By participating in these provincial gatherings, the Tofino Chamber ensures that the needs of our business community are not only heard but actively considered in the BC Chamber’s policy development and government relations efforts. We are proud to contribute a coastal and community-driven perspective to the broader provincial network and are committed to bringing insights and advocacy tools back to our members.

We’re grateful to be part of a collaborative Chamber network that works together to address complex challenges and champion economic resilience in every corner of B.C.