06/09/2026
✨ Gather & Grow 2026 ✨
On June 5, 2026, early years professionals from across Peterborough came together for the first-ever Gather & Grow event, a full-day professional learning and networking opportunity made possible through the generous support of the City of Peterborough.
The name Gather & Grow was thoughtfully chosen by a local educator, reflecting the spirit of collaboration, learning, and professional growth that defined the day.
The Gather & Grow experience began on the evening of June 4th with a special live recording of the Little Big Ideas podcast, hosted by Lorrie McGee and Anne Marie Coughlin, featuring guest speaker Dr. Jean Clinton. This engaging conversation provided an inspiring start to the learning experience and set the stage for the day ahead.
On June 5th, participants engaged in sessions led by an exceptional group of presenters, including Evelina Lukaszyk, Mary Hewitt, Lorrie McGee, Anne Marie Coughlin, and Dr. Jean Clinton. Nutritional staff also participated in dedicated professional learning facilitated by Erica Diamond, Laura Abassi, and Elaine McCarthy from Lakelands Public Health, alongside Nancy Northrup from Pearson Day Care.
We were honoured to begin the day with a meaningful Land Acknowledgement shared by Anna Jennings. Attendees were inspired by keynote speaker Ziysah von Bieberstein, and the event concluded with a powerful closing keynote from acclaimed author David A. Robertson, whose work, 52 Ways to Reconcile, encouraged reflection, learning, and action toward reconciliation.
Thank you to everyone who attended, presented, organized, and contributed to making the first Gather & Grow such a memorable and impactful experience. Together, we continue to strengthen our early years community through connection, learning, and shared purpose.