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On April 21st, BC TEAL started their annual conference with this year’s theme being “Moving Forward in an Uncertain World.” This year, the Affiliate Network and Professional Council (ANPC) was thrilled to be able to participate in the well-attended event. It was clear that the BC TEAL board and conference committee worked hard to fulfill both the professional development needs of their members and guests, as well as develop a sense of community. Members of the ANPC were treated to a keynote and a song by Jeremy Harmer.
This year BC TEAL focused its efforts on providing accessible online professional development to its members in a friendly environment. The web platform included fun online games, and small group forums to encourage discussion. Over the three-day conference, there were many presenters on a diverse range of topics. Amongst all of the excellent keynotes and presenters was a small panel from the ANPC. The panel looked to summarize some of the lessons learned from affiliate organizations around the globe and to share some solutions from other contexts.
One of the many benefits of a virtual conference is it allows for sharing of global perspectives. Being able to learn and connect with members was thrilling for the ANPC members in attendance.
The ANPC also joined TESL Saskatchewan/SKTEAL also had a conference on April 30th, which had the theme of Navigating the Way. Keynote Dr. Karen Ragoonaden spoke on supporting equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization.
The ANPC also featured a panel at the conference talking about solutions learned over the last year and how other organizations have been navigating the way forward in a post-pandemic environment.
BC TEAL and TESL Saskatchewan recognized the need to make connections with other organizations and to continue to look for ways to build connections and community for members in this new paradigm.
The ANPC was happy to be invited to these conferences and connect with members while sharing tips and solutions for member problems. We look forward to continuing to present with other global affiliates over the remainder of the year!
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James Papple is the past chair of the ANPC and a member of several organizations. He is a proud member of BC TEAL. | 
