Canadians are coming to Abbotsford to talk about character.

, a group committed to inspiring and strengthening community through the integration of shared values, is proud to be hosting the country鈥檚 first national discussion on the topic, Oct. 23-24, at .

The two-day conference, entitled Character Canada, will include renowned keynote speakers Peter Legge, a bestselling author and CEO of Canada Wide Media Limited, Wab Kinew, associate vice-president for indigenous relations at the University of Winnipeg and Dr. Avis Glaze, who is recognized as one of Canada鈥檚 outstanding educators.

The conference will also feature national and international breakout presenters including Diane Nelson, director of instruction in the West Vancouver School District, Robert Foord, president of Kal Tires and Siva Gopal Thaiyalan, senior curriculum specialist with the Singapore ministry of education.

鈥淥ur hope is that this conference will act as the spring board for a national conversation on character,鈥� says Vijay Manuel who has chaired Character Abbotsford since its inception in 2011.

鈥淭here will be something for everyone, whether you are coming from a business, community or education background.鈥�

Richard Lucy, deputy chief constable and Character Abbotsford vice chair, believes that the conference will be a gathering point for like-minded individuals who believe deeply in the power of community.

鈥淭his conference will bring together people who are passionate about building communities on the foundation of respect, integrity and empathy, and we have many such folks in Abbotsford and throughout our wonderful country.鈥�

To register for the conference and receive early bird pricing visit or contact Vijay Manuel at Character.Canada@gmail.com.