At Canadian Active Voice (CAV), we believe that leadership is not just about delivering speeches or defending positions — it’s about listening, understanding, and responding to the people. Leadership that listens creates space for connection, trust, and meaningful change.
That is why we launched the Fireside Chat Series — a civic engagement initiative built to bring together leaders from municipal, provincial, and federal levels in open, informal conversations with their communities.
This series reflects our core values: dialogue, collaboration, and action.
Why Fireside Chats Matter
- They provide a relaxed and respectful format where leaders can speak honestly
- They allow citizens to hear directly from their representatives, without media filters
- They move conversations beyond headlines and into the real issues that affect people every day
- They promote transparency, accountability, and shared ownership of community challenges
Who We’ve Engaged So Far
- Municipal leaders, including Mayor Libby O’Hara (Quispamsis) and Mayor Brittany Merrifield (Grand Bay-Westfield)
- Provincial ministers and elected officials responsible for economic development, housing, healthcare, and more
- Federal Members of Parliament participating in national conversations at the grassroots level
- Business owners, nonprofit leaders, educators, youth, and newcomers, who bring important perspectives to the table
These sessions are more than interviews. They are bridges between government and everyday people. They offer community members a chance to ask questions, share insights, and help shape future decisions.
Why This Initiative is Strategic
- It encourages public trust by bringing leaders closer to the people they serve
- It supports multi-level collaboration to address complex issues such as housing, employment, and social inclusion
- It builds a culture of listening and learning across political, cultural, and geographic boundaries
- It highlights local leadership voices that are often overlooked in national conversations
Real Change Begins with Real Conversation
At CAV, we believe real change begins with real conversation. That’s why our Fireside Chats will continue — reaching more communities and amplifying more voices.