Kadie Ward

Toronto
International Economic Development Executive, Build Strong Cities Corp.

Kadie Ward works in international development to help cities, provinces and national governments plan sustainable growth in their communities. 

Throughout her career, Ward has worked with over 100 cities from 16 countries to define successful measurable economic development strategies. 

Ward received a Digital Marketing Award in 2012 and was ranked #4 internationally in the category of Best Use of Social Media, and #6 for City Digital Marketing. Agencies from many international cities such as New York City, Hong Kong, Calgary and Chicago were included in the competition.

In 2013, Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 recognized Ward as a next-gen thought-leader and “emerging star” in Economic Development. In the same year, she also received the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal for her contribution to Canadian municipal and international economic growth.

Memories of… Lake Nipissing 

No matter where I am in the world I always long to return to the shores of Lake Nipissing. Every season the shore offers something to enjoy and was a playground in my youth - and still to this day. I remember snowshoeing around Callander Bay and into Lake Nipissing and the freezing fresh wind pushing me forward in the winter. Then the blanket of shad flies that covered the lake each spring, reminding us that summer was near. The glorious days and nights at the beach - munching fries, slurping ice-cream and sneaking a ride on the Chief Commanda. Fall was always a magical time around the lake to watch the season turn with the remarkable colours. Regardless of the time of year, sunset along the boardwalk are always a breathtaking reminder of how lucky we are to call North Bay and the “near north” our home.