by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 8:25 AM ET, Wed April 29, 2026
When Jackie Friedman watched the energy build during “Canada Day” at CoNexion 2025, it sparked an idea: Bring that momentum north of the border.
The result is CanEx, Nexion Canada’s first dedicated conference for Canadian members, designed as what Friedman calls “a mini-CoNexion” with a distinctly local lens.
“At CoNexion 2025, our ‘Canada Day’ was electric, and we got to thinking: Why not do this in Canada, too?” Jackie Friedman, CTIE, VTA, President of Nexion Travel Group, told TravelPulse Canada.
“There’s quite a bit of time before CoNexion in September, so this is the perfect time to get together.”
But CanEx is about more than filling the calendar.
Jackie Friedman, Nexion Travel Group president (Photo Credit: Nexion Travel Group Canada)
It’s about meeting a moment, one where Canadian advisors are navigating global uncertainty while still seeing strong demand.
Advisors Are Busy—But They’re Also Watching Closely
From geopolitical tensions to shifting destination demand, today’s headlines are impossible to ignore. Friedman acknowledges that Canadian advisors are paying attention.
“The news is full of concerning developments… and Canadian travel agents are watching closely,” she said.
“What I hear about over and over is how well business is going and how positive they are feeling. Canadians want to travel.”
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That demand, she adds, is exactly where advisors prove their value.
“Destination choices might change depending on current events, but they are still booking travel with their travel agents. This is where travel agents really shine—consumers need that expert guidance. Nowadays, it’s risky to go it alone.”
A Reset Button for Advisors
While regional meetings have long been part of Nexion Canada’s strategy, Friedman sees CanEx as something different: Deeper, more intentional, and more collaborative.
“It’s two days packed full of how we specifically serve Canadian travel agents, and even more importantly, it’s time for them to share their knowledge with each other,” she said. “There’s nothing like being in the same room together.”
That in-person element is deliberate.
“Our industry is built on independent work… and while that independence is amazing, it can be isolating,” Friedman explained.
“Events like CanEx are an energy jolt to a travel agent who is on their own and seeking genuine connections.”
The Formula: Knowledge, Networking — and a Little Fun
Friedman has a simple philosophy when it comes to building a successful event.
“Any good event needs three things: Hard knowledge, networking and fun.”
At CanEx, that translates into a mix of hands-on learning—like air booking workshops—alongside peer panels and informal connection points. And yes, even a trip to see the Toronto Blue Jays.
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“People join Nexion because of what we can do for them,” she added.
“They stay because of the connections they make along the way.”
If CanEx Feels Timely, It’s Because It Is
Advisors are operating in a more complex environment, but they’re also more central to the travel experience than they’ve been in years.
Friedman sees that firsthand.
“Every day I get to support hardworking entrepreneurs who are following their passion and serving their clients.
“They are probably the most joyful, positive group of people I know.”
Canada's Moment
Ultimately, CanEx isn’t just about launching a new event; it’s about recognizing the strength and specificity of the Canadian market.
For Friedman, bringing advisors together in Canada, with time to focus on their unique needs, is long overdue.
“We’re all a lot more relaxed here.
“And we can spend that time sharing knowledge advisors can take home and put to work immediately.”
It’s a sentiment that reflects a shift. One where Canadian advisors aren’t just part of the conversation, but shaping it in their own way.
And for those considering where they fit in that future, Friedman doesn’t shy away from what she believes sets Nexion Canada apart.
“There are many wonderful options for travel agents in Canada,” she said.
“But I think that Nexion has a very special blend of local leadership and support, backed by our parent company, Internova Travel Group. We’re a really unique blend of personalized service and partner relationships that you can’t get anywhere else.”
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