Project Lead – StoryStrong Annual Conference
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Program Area: Events and Strategic Initiatives
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Location / Format: Hybrid (planning primarily remote with in-person event delivery in Winnipeg)
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Supervisor: Executive Director
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Start Date: As soon as possible
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Project Timeline: Planning begins immediately, with the inaugural conference scheduled for November 2026
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Estimated Time Commitment: Approximately 10–15 hours per month during early planning stages, increasing during the months leading up to the conference.
About The StoryBridge Network
The StoryBridge Network is a community-driven organization that uses storytelling and creative expression to foster resilience, inclusion, and social change. Through workshops, storytelling programs, and community partnerships, StoryBridge creates spaces where diverse lived experiences can be shared and valued.
StoryBridge operates using a collaborative leadership model in which volunteers contribute meaningfully to programs, projects, and organizational development.
We welcome applications from newcomers, youth, and individuals seeking Canadian work experience.
About the Project: StoryStrong Annual Conference
The StoryStrong Annual Conference is a mission-driven storytelling and community engagement conference designed to amplify lived experience as a powerful source of knowledge.
Unlike traditional conferences that position marginalized voices as secondary perspectives, StoryStrong places the stories and experiences of newcomers, seniors, youth, and community leaders at the centre of the conversation.
The inaugural 2026 pilot conference will include:
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A Friday evening reception
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A Saturday conference featuring keynote speakers, panels, and workshops
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Approximately 70–140 participants
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Storytelling-led conversations about culture, community, and belonging
The conference will serve both as a community-building event and as a long-term sustainability initiative that supports StoryBridge programming.
Role Purpose
The Project Lead – StoryStrong Annual Conference provides leadership for the planning and coordination of this major StoryBridge initiative.
Working closely with the Executive Director and other volunteers, the Project Lead will help guide the development of the inaugural conference and coordinate the teams responsible for logistics, programming, outreach, and partnerships.
This role is an opportunity to help shape a new community conference that centres storytelling, lived experience, and social impact.
Key Responsibilities
Responsibilities may include:
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Leading the planning and coordination of the StoryStrong Annual Conference
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Developing a conference planning timeline and coordinating planning meetings
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Supporting the recruitment of speakers, storytellers, and facilitators
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Coordinating volunteers supporting conference logistics
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Assisting with sponsorship outreach and partnership development
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Supporting marketing and promotional activities in collaboration with communications volunteers
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Assisting with venue coordination and event logistics
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Supporting the implementation of the reception and conference event
Skills and Qualities
This role is well-suited to someone interested in event leadership, storytelling, community engagement, or nonprofit initiatives.
Helpful qualities may include:
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Experience coordinating events, conferences, or community programs
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Strong organizational and project management skills
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Ability to collaborate with diverse community partners
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Interest in storytelling, social justice, and community leadership
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Ability to guide volunteers and coordinate multiple tasks
Prior experience with conference planning or event production is helpful but not required.
Support and Collaboration
The Project Lead will work closely with the Executive Director and other StoryBridge volunteers supporting communications, administration, and program development.
Support may include:
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Guidance on conference planning and program development
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Collaboration with volunteer teams supporting logistics and outreach
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Opportunities to help shape the vision and structure of the conference as it grows
Volunteer Benefits
Serving as Project Lead – StoryStrong Annual Conference provides a unique opportunity to gain leadership experience in launching a new community conference.
Volunteers in this role may gain experience in:
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Conference planning and event leadership
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Partnership development and community outreach
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Nonprofit program and event management
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Strategic planning for community initiatives
If funding targets for the conference are achieved, an honorarium may be provided to recognize the contributions of the Project Lead.
Code of Conduct and Confidentiality
Volunteers are expected to uphold StoryBridge’s policies and values, including respect for participants, staff, and fellow volunteers.
Volunteers must maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information related to partnerships, speakers, and event planning.
Accessibility and Inclusion
StoryBridge welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds, identities, and abilities. We are committed to creating accessible opportunities and will work with volunteers to support their participation whenever possible.
How to Apply
Interested individuals are invited to submit a volunteer application and a short statement of interest describing their interest in community storytelling and program coordination.
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an informal conversation to discuss the role and ensure a good fit for both the volunteer and the organization.
For more information, please contact:
The Executive Director, The StoryBridge Network
By email: info@thestorybridge.ca
Explore More Ways To Get Involved
Learn how people contribute to The StoryBridge Network through volunteer leadership, board service, and other ways to support our mission.
Help guide the long-term vision and sustainability of The StoryBridge Network through strategic leadership and governance.
Discover the storytelling programs, partnerships, and creative initiatives that bring the StoryBridge mission to life.
Stay informed about potential future roles as The StoryBridge Network continues to expand its programs and partnerships.