Calgary Talks

08/05/2026

08/03/2026

From Alaska to Mexico: Forrester Nolan’s Journey of Adventure, Purpose & Perseverance

Australian backpacker Forrester Nolan joins Calgary Talks to share the remarkable story behind his extraordinary journey—cycling all the way from Alaska to Mexico. Beyond the miles and mountains, Forrester reflects on his life story, the challenges that shaped him, the motivation that keeps him moving forward, and the lessons he’s learned from meeting people and embracing different cultures along the way.

Join us as we explore the mindset of a modern adventurer and discover how courage, resilience, and a passion for exploration can inspire us all to pursue our own journeys—one step, or one pedal, at a time.

08/01/2026

🎙️ Calgary Talks | Episode 2: Giving Back, Growing Forward

What does it truly mean to be part of a community?

In this episode of Calgary Talks, Saqib Jalil reflects on the transformative power of community engagement and volunteerism. From his early days as a newcomer to Calgary to serving with organizations such as the Calgary Food Bank, the University of Calgary Senate, and the Alberta Cancer Foundation, Saqib shares how volunteering shaped his personal and professional journey.

His message is simple yet powerful: Volunteer hours are not just about giving back to your community—they are about giving back to yourself. Through service, we build meaningful connections, develop leadership skills, gain confidence, and create a stronger, more compassionate society.

Join us for an inspiring conversation on why every one of us has something valuable to contribute—and why the greatest reward of volunteering is often the person we become along the way.

07/29/2026

Coming Soon on Calgary Talks | Court Ellingson, MLA for Calgary-Foothills

Every leader has a story—a journey shaped by challenges, setbacks, decisions, and purpose.

In this upcoming Calgary Talks series, we sit down with Court Ellingson, MLA for Calgary-Foothills, for an open and thoughtful conversation about his personal journey, the lessons that have shaped his leadership, how he navigates criticism, what keeps him motivated, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.

We also explore one of Alberta’s most talked-about issues today: the growing conversation around Alberta separation. What factors are driving separatist sentiment? What are the concerns many Albertans are expressing, and how does he see the path forward?

Join us for an honest discussion on leadership, public service, Alberta’s future, and leading with purpose.

Stay tuned—new episodes are coming soon on Calgary Talks.

07/24/2026

From Karachi & Multan to Calgary: A Journey of Courage, Persistence & Opportunity

Every successful career has a story that begins with a dream.

In his first episode of Calgary Talks, Saqib Jalil, CPA, CA shares his inspiring journey—from his childhood in Karachi and later in Multan, Pakistan, studying at Bahauddin Zakariya University, teaching at IBA Karachi, and building a career in Pakistan’s financial sector, to taking a leap of faith and moving to Calgary, Canada.

Remarkably, he secured his first professional job in Canada on just the 35th day after arriving. His story is one of resilience, preparation, and believing that new beginnings are possible.

Let’s hear, in his own words, how determination and continuous learning helped shape his journey.

Watch Episode 1 of Calgary Talks with Saqib Jalil.

06/27/2026

Calgary Talks | From Curiosity to the United Nations

One application. One opportunity. One decision can change your life.

Every remarkable journey begins with a single step. In this inspiring episode of Calgary Talks, Moazima Rizwan shares how a simple childhood fascination with her father’s work in mapping and geography grew into an extraordinary journey from the University of Calgary to the United Nations.

What began with uncertainty after high school turned into a passion for Geography, GIS, and real-world problem solving. From studying in Italy and Greece through a prestigious international scholarship, to conducting research with First Nations communities, developing advanced web mapping tools, and gaining industry experience, Moazima embraced every opportunity that came her way.

Her biggest breakthrough came when she took her father’s advice: “If you don’t buy the lottery ticket, you have zero chance of winning.” She applied for a UN internship despite believing she wasn’t qualified. Months later, she was selected, travelled on a diplomatic visa, and developed web mapping tools for the UN Crisis Centre. Her work later supported crisis mapping used by the United Nations Secretary-General—an achievement that few students ever experience.

Today, her accomplishments have earned her a fully funded Master’s scholarship at the University of Calgary, recognition during her graduation ceremony, and the honour of representing more than 38,000 University of Calgary students at a major university event.

🎯 Her message to students and young professionals:
Don’t wait until you feel ready. Apply. Participate. Connect. Stay informed. Embrace technology. The world is changing rapidly—and those who seize opportunities today will shape tomorrow.

This is a story of courage, curiosity, resilience, and the power of saying “Why not?”

06/23/2026

Coming this Friday on Calgary Talks | June 26

Why does Calgary Talks matter?
What role can community platforms play in sharing stories, building understanding, and connecting people?

In this special teaser, Moazima Rizwan shares her thoughts on the value and importance of Calgary Talks and why these conversations matter.

Stay tuned for her intro and full video this Friday, June 26.