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Arlene Schilke, grew up in northern rural Manitoba. That upbringing led her to recognize at an early age the importance of being in community and building a network of support. She continues to thrive off connecting with people and connecting people to each other.

Arlene founded her event agency, Timewise Event Management, over 25 years ago and has won several awards including SPIN’s Top 40 over 40, BizBash Top Canadian Event Professionals and MPI’s Mentor of the Year. 

It was in her involvement with MPI (Meeting Professionals International) her mantra “Community, Connections and Collaboration” came alive and helped her grow her chapter to double its size. 

Through MPI she saw how people in the events industry wanted to connect, to find support, and gain new perspectives and ideas which led her to creating and co-founding GO WEST LIVE in 2018. GO WEST has grown to be the largest gathering of meeting and event professionals in Canada, outside of Toronto!

Known for her curiosity and insight into trends, Arlene has successfully developed GO WEST to be one of the few industry events that is truly geared towards event planners. 

She has curated the education lineup so that it is focused on industry specific content. This along with the niche meet ups and social events where connections are made with likeminded industry people is why the event continues to grow year after year. 

In our conversation today, Arlene encourages us all to stay open, curious, and willing to be pleasantly surprised. You never know where you’ll meet your great connection. Who knows maybe at GO WEST this year!  

Are you a planner that would love to connect at GO WEST? Contact us for a special Candy Discount Code! 

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You can find and connect with Arlene on LinkedIn HERE. 

GO WEST LIVE – Where Canada’s Event Industry Gathers

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada • February 1-3, 2026

In February, event planners and suppliers from across Canada and beyond are meeting for 3 days of learning and connecting! Created in 2018, by event planners, for event planners, GO WEST is the largest gathering of event pros outside of Toronto. Enjoy the main stage, grand opening, networking, receptions, entertainment, exhibit, learning lounge - it's all at GO WEST! 

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Meaningful connections matter now more than ever! Your community, clients, or customers are ready to connect. Are you ready to be their connector? Events can grow your business, create an impact in your community, or motivate a group around your ideas. The Connection Architect Course and Community is for the everyday event planner that is ready to create connections that matter.

Sound like you? Start building at www.TheConnectionArchitect.ca

The Connector Next Door is produced by www.CandyConsulting.ca  

Are you planning or promoting events for your business, organization, or group? Reach out and book a 30-Minute Hello with podcast host, Candy Event Consulting Founder, and Connection Strategy Coach Lisa Gareau to share how you are creating connections through events!