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Celebrating 2024 with Highlights from Bayview Yards’ Events

by rgaudreau for Events, MEETUPS, Uncategorized
Celebrating 2024 with Highlights from Bayview Yards’ Events

A person stands on a landing, leaning on a red railing. By: Emily McKay
13-minute read
1776 words

As we wrap up an incredible year, it’s time to look back and celebrate the events that have made 2024 truly memorable at Bayview Yards.

From inspiring conferences to community-focused exhibitions, our space has been filled with moments of innovation, creativity, and connection.  As the Bayview Events Coordinator, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the enthusiasm and passion of our guests and organizers.

This year, Bayview Yards has not only been a place of gathering but a hub where ideas and partnerships have flourished.  Here’s a look at some of the standout events that made 2024 a year to remember. 


Moments That Defined 2024 at Bayview Yards 

 

A group of men are seated in high top chairs - the view is from the side, with the closest person speaking into a microphone.

Black Males in Excellence Conference: A Milestone Event 

On June 28th, Bayview Yards had the honour of hosting the inaugural Black Males in Excellence Conference presented by the Brotherhood Coalition. This groundbreaking event brought together Black males from diverse backgrounds to embark on a transformative journey of financial empowerment and leadership development. Through dynamic discussions, interactive workshops, and powerful networking opportunities, attendees explored strategies to make informed financial decisions and unlock their leadership potential. 

A group of men are posing for a group photo, smiling. Some are standing, while others in front are on a bended knee.

A highlight of the day was the vibrant lunch provided by Tropikàl Restaurant, a standout Black-owned establishment in Ottawa. Their flavorful offerings added a special touch to the event, reflecting the excellence celebrated throughout the day. 

It was truly inspiring to see connections formed, ideas exchanged, and a community strengthened through this first-of-its-kind conference at Bayview Yards. 

 

A food services worker is reaching into a metal insert during service to attendees at a reception. Poor Chefs: Culinary Creativity for a Cause 

On June 27, Bayview Yards was proud to host Poor Chefs, a unique culinary competition in support of Operation Come Home’s social enterprise and employment programs. This inspiring event challenged Ottawa’s top chefs to transform food bank staples into exceptional hors d’oeuvres and dishes, proving that culinary brilliance knows no bounds. 

Guests were treated to an unforgettable evening of creativity and community, sampling each chef’s creations and voting for their favourites.

Adding to the excitement, a celebrity mixologist crafted signature cocktails, available in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions, to perfectly complement the night’s fare. 

Poor Chefs exemplified the spirit of collaboration and innovation, with all proceeds supporting vital programs that empower youth. It was a heartwarming and delicious reminder of the power of food to bring people together for a meaningful cause. 

 

A group assembles casually for a group photo on a rooftop.

Immigrant Entrepreneur Canada Meetup: Building Community and Connections 

This year, the Immigrant Entrepreneur Canada Meetup, hosted monthly at Ottawa’s Innovation Hub and proudly sponsored by the Bayview Yards Meetup Program, became a standout addition to our community. Recognizing the unique challenges of being both a newcomer and an entrepreneur, this initiative created a welcoming and supportive space for women and non-binary immigrant entrepreneurs.

Each meetup offered opportunities to connect, share experiences, exchange ideas, and build lasting networks. What began as the vision of a few determined women immigrant entrepreneurs in Ottawa has grown into a thriving community where challenges are met together, and successes are celebrated collectively. 

Although these inspiring gatherings currently take place in Ottawa, their impact has sparked interest beyond the city.

Reach out to learn how you can bring this empowering initiative to your own community. Life truly is better when we navigate it together! 

 

Three people stand for a photo in front of lounge chairs arranged on a stage.

Reflecting on “Innovating Together: The México-Canada AI Journey” 

In January, Bayview Yards was proud to host the Embassy of Mexico in Canada for the dynamic event “Innovating Together: The México-Canada AI Journey.”

It was a day filled with innovation, collaboration, and expert insights that highlighted the impressive strides both nations are making in the field of artificial intelligence. 

Attendees had the opportunity to delve into Mexico’s evolving AI ecosystem and explore potential partnerships with Canadian counterparts. The discussions were comprehensive, covering topics from the development of future AI professionals to navigating complex ethics and policy challenges.

The panels were engaging and thought-provoking, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the two countries to drive economic growth and shared prosperity. We are grateful to all who participated and contributed to this successful event. Here’s to fostering even greater collaboration in the ever-evolving realm of AI.  If you missed it, elements of the event were livestreamed to YouTube and can be viewed here.  

 

Five people arrange themselves around a large scale, cut out 3D logo for Tedx. TEDxMechanicsville: A Celebration of Unity and Inspiration 

This year, TEDxMechanicsville brought the community together on November 1st for a transformative day under the theme of Ensemble. Captivating speakers from Ottawa and beyond took the stage, sparking curiosity and inspiring collective action through their thought-provoking talks. 

The day was a vibrant celebration of diversity, filled with opportunities to share ideas, build connections, and revel in the beauty of our community. Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by local vendors, indulged in sweet treats, and were treated to dynamic entertainment between the engaging talks. 

We were deeply honoured to have Algonquin Elder Monique Manatch open and close the event, setting a meaningful tone of respect and unity for TEDxMechanicsville: Ensemble. Friends, family, and neighbours left the event inspired and energized to drive positive change. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back next year for another unforgettable experience! 

 

A food entrepreneur stands proudly behind the counter of a cafe where their food items are on display. Bayview Yards Café Pop-Up Program: Celebrating Culinary Diversity 

In 2024, the Bayview Yards Café Pop-Up Program turned our café into a lively hub of flavours and cultures, showcasing a diverse lineup of local restaurants. This program not only celebrated Ottawa’s vibrant culinary scene but also underscored Bayview Yards’ commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion by providing opportunities for businesses from underrepresented communities to shine. 

The café buzzed with excitement as attendees discovered new cuisines, supported local entrepreneurs and celebrated Ottawa’s culinary diversity. Each pop-up served as a reminder that food has the power to bring us together, one dish at a time. 

 

A photo of a reception room, where chairs are neatly arranged and bordered by red velvet rope. An Evening of Glamour: Old Hollywood in the Foundry 

A recent event transformed the RBC Foundry into a dazzling Old Hollywood spectacle for an unforgettable awards event.

Every detail captured the magic of the silver screen, from a red carpet entrance and Hollywood star decorations to a popcorn machine that added a touch of nostalgia. The RBC Foundry’s industrial charm provided the perfect backdrop for this glamorous evening, where attendees celebrated achievements in style.

It was a night of elegance, recognition, and cinematic flair that left everyone feeling like a star. 

 

A group is seated, watching a presentation in a reception hall.

Welcoming Ottawa Week: A Celebration of Inclusion and Connection 

On June 17th, Bayview Yards proudly hosted a standout event as part of the annual Welcoming Ottawa Week (WOW), organized by the Ottawa Local Immigration Partnership (OLIP).  This inspiring week-long series, now in its 11th year, highlights Ottawa’s commitment to creating meaningful connections between long-time residents and newcomers, fostering a vibrant and cohesive civic culture. 

A reception space is neatly arranged with round tables covered in white linen with table settings.

Attendees gathered for a delightful breakfast event, beautifully accented by striking centrepieces featuring bright yellow flowers that perfectly complemented the warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Through dialogue, cultural exchanges, and celebrations, the WOW event at Bayview Yards served as a testament to Ottawa’s flourishing diversity and its role in building a cosmopolitan city that thrives on creativity and inclusivity.

Bayview Yards was honoured to contribute to this vital initiative, embodying the values of hospitality and connection that define WOW.  

 

A man appears to be DJing at an in person event in a reception space.

CreativeMornings: Energizing Ottawa’s Creative Community 

Every month, Bayview Yards buzzes with unmatched energy as it hosts CreativeMornings Ottawa, a dynamic gathering for the city’s creative individuals.  Since its inception in 2012, this global event series has brought together thousands of participants, offering an inspirational breakfast speaker series that fosters optimism, collaboration, and connection among Ottawa’s citizens and businesses. 

Each session explores a new topic, featuring speakers from diverse fields such as psychology, architecture, artisanal sign painting, and craft brewing.

A group participates in guided movement together, raising their hands over their heads.

This eclectic mix highlights the incredible breadth of creativity within our city, while also providing a consistent platform to showcase inspiring ideas and initiatives. 

CreativeMornings has been instrumental in building Ottawa’s creative community, offering a vibrant space for cross-pollination of ideas and collaborations. Bayview Yards is proud to serve as the home for this energizing series, where creativity flourishes and connections thrive. 

 

A reception space is partitioned into a walking gallery space. Ottawa Modern Quilt Gallery: A Night of Creativity and Celebration 

This year, Bayview Yards was thrilled to host the Ottawa Modern Quilt Gallery Opening Gala, an event that marked a decade of innovation and artistry in modern quilting.

As a proud sponsor, we welcomed guests to an evening filled with creativity, community, and celebration, showcasing over 50 stunning quilts crafted by the talented members of the Ottawa Modern Quilt Guild. 

The specially curated gallery captivated attendees with bold geometric designs and intricate patterns, each quilt reflecting the skill and passion of its maker. Guests enjoyed the opportunity to learn about the inspirations and techniques behind these masterpieces and meet the incredible artists themselves. 

The gala featured live music by the talented Alanna J Brown, delicious appetizers, desserts, and snacks. This event not only celebrated the artistry of modern quilting but also brought the community together for an unforgettable night of connection and inspiration.

 

Three college students stand beside a table display of art. Reflecting on the 51st Annual Algonquin College Student Photography Exhibition and Charity Print Sale 

On April 22, we had the honour of hosting the 51st Annual Algonquin College Student Photography Exhibition and Charity Print Sale at Bayview Yards in the RBC Foundry. This event was a true testament to the talent and creativity of the college’s 2nd-year graduating photography students. 

The gallery was filled with breathtaking photographs that showcased the diverse vision and artistic skill of these emerging photographers. This year, the students also used their platform to make a meaningful impact, raising funds for the Canadian Cancer Society.

It was a memorable event that celebrated both the students’ impressive achievements and the spirit of giving back to the community. We are proud to have been a part of such an inspiring showcase and grateful for everyone who attended and contributed to this great cause.  

here’s to more great events in 2025

Reflecting on 2024, we are grateful for the vibrant community that makes Bayview Yards the special place it is. The events we hosted this year demonstrated the power of collaboration, the strength of diverse ideas, and the limitless creativity that our city has to offer. ‘

Whether it was showcasing artistic talent, fostering professional connections, or supporting meaningful causes, each event contributed to a year of growth and inspiration. Thank you to everyone who joined us, participated, and made these events possible. Here’s to more moments of celebration, innovation, and community spirit in 2025 and beyond! 


Looking to host an event that leaves a lasting impression?

Bayview Yards offers versatile and inspiring spaces perfect for conferences, workshops, exhibitions, and more. Join us and become part of a community that celebrates innovation, creativity, and collaboration.

Book your event

 

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