UFV, partners to launch community speaker series this week

The event will examine the concept of thriving communities and what resembles in everyday life, as well as the roles residents, institutions, businesses and leaders play in helping communities flourish.

“With elections approaching, bringing education, community services, and local business together to explore what a thriving community looks and feels like is especially timely and meaningful,” said Ryan Leonhard, Executive Director, Abbotsford Downtown Business Association.

“Learning does not happen only in classrooms. It also happens when people come together to listen, question assumptions, and make sense of the challenges and possibilities their community faces. This series creates an opportunity for people to learn from one another and imagine how we might build stronger, more connected communities together,” explains Amea Wilbur, Associate Professor of Adult Education, University of the Fraser Valley.

The series is being developed with the active involvement of Amea Wilbur; Muhi Bakini, Supervisor of Diversity Education at Archway Community Services; and Ryan Leonhard, Executive Director of the Abbotsford Downtown Business Association. Their collaboration brings together perspectives from higher education, community services and the local business community.

“This is not a conversation reserved for experts or institutions,” said Bakini, who will moderate the panel. “It is an invitation for community members to consider what thriving means, what may be standing in the way and what each of us can contribute.”

Attendees can enjoy light refreshments and connect with panellists and other community members.

Event details

Event: Thriving Communities Date: Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 Time: Doors open at 6 p.m.; panel begins at 6:30 p.m. Location: Matsqui Centennial Auditorium, 32315 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford.

by Mike Vanden Bosch

UFV, partners to launch community speaker series this week

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