Kate Davis is an award-winning Canadian comedian, author, actor, and professional speaker who brings warmth, wit, and insight to every stage she graces. Theatrically trained in England at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), Kate began her career on the stage before shifting to comedy after a single open mic revealed her unique power to connect through laughter.

A 12-time nominee at the Canadian Comedy Awards, including recognition for the Phil Hartman Award, Kate has headlined major festivals such as Just for Laughs, the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, and the Kitchener-Waterloo Comedy Festival. She has performed alongside comedy greats like Lewis Black and Seth Meyers, and was invited to open for global leaders including President Bill Clinton and journalist Barbara Walters, an experience she calls “a surreal reminder that humor transcends status and stage.”

Kate has also appeared in her own hour-long comedy special on CTV and The Comedy Network and is a regular gueston CBC’s The Debaters, SiriusXM, and other national media. Her comedy album House Arrest was a hit during the pandemic, showcasing her ability to find meaning and levity even in life’s toughest moments.

John Dickerson has dedicated his career to supporting people with disabilities, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). He has a long and inspiring journey in the field of disability advocacy, with a commitment to empowering individuals with IDD.

Career Highlights:

• The Arc: Dickerson began his career with The Arc of South Dakota in 1973. He was involved in the early stages of drafting statewide rules for special education. He later served in leadership roles with The Arc of Indiana and The Arc of the US.

• Advocacy for Change: He has been a lifelong advocate for systemic change, helping to design the first Medicaid Waivers in Indiana. He also supported people transitioning from institutions and developed solutions to waiting lists for services.

• Founder of Red Road Ventures and Quillo: After retiring from The Arc, Dickerson founded Red Road Ventures. He developed Quillo, a unique communication platform focused on microlearning and positive psychology. Quillo aims to improve staff retention for organizations supporting people with IDD and provides a communication platform for families and individuals with IDD. Quillo is currently used in 15 states.

• Focus on Staff Well-being: Dickerson recognizes the importance of supporting direct support professionals and addresses issues like staff turnover and communication gaps through Quillo. He emphasizes the need to help staff build their "good life".

Contributions and Recognition:

• Dickerson is recognized as a visionary and innovator in IDD advocacy.

• He is known for his insights on advocacy, positivity, and finding joy in everyday moments. The American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities recognized him as one of the top 200 influencers in the field over the past 20 years.