The Buddies Program

ABOUT

PACT is delighted to bring back the Buddies Program for PACTcon 2026 in Whitehorse. A welcoming initiative designed to help attendees connect, learn, and make the most of this year’s conference experience.

The Buddies Program pairs First Timer Buddies (those attending the conference for the first time) with Experienced Buddies (returning attendees who have an understanding of the conference rhythm and community). The Buddies Program allows you to develop ensuring that participants feel supported and engaged during the conference.

At PACT, we believe that connection fuels learning and that every exchange between colleagues -- whether seasoned professionals or newcomers -- enriches our field. The Buddies Program isn’t a mentorship program; it’s an opportunity for mutual exchange, collaboration, and community-building across theatre artists, leaders and administrators.

HOW IT WORKS

Each First Timer Buddy will be paired with an Experienced Buddy (or occasionally grouped in threes).
Buddies will have several opportunities to connect both before and during the conference:

• Pre-conference introduction: You’ll be connected by email before the event to introduce yourselves and share what you hope to get out of the experience.
• Pre-Conference Virtual mixer: You’ll have the opportunity to connect with other folks in the Buddies Program, so you’ll get to connect with others in the program.
• In-person meet-up: Join us for “Buddies Bites”, a casual gathering to meet your Buddy in person! This year’s get-together will take place after the Opening Session over lunch at the Yukon Arts Centre on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
• Conference connection points: Buddies are encouraged to check in during the event, whether that’s attending a session together, grabbing coffee, or sharing reflections after a keynote. This relationship building is up to each individual pairing.

The goal? To spark conversations, foster new professional relationships, and help everyone feel at home within the conference community, while in a new place.

WHO CAN JOIN

• First Timer Buddies: Anyone attending the conference for the first time who wants to feel more connected, confident, and wanting to understand more about the sessions, events, and the conference experience.
• Experienced Buddies: Returning attendees interested in giving back to the community by sharing insights, answering questions, and helping others make connections.

Experienced Buddies often say the program helps them see the conference through fresh eyes, while First Timers gain a new connection and insider perspective from someone who’s been there before.

THE COMMITMENT

The Buddies Program runs for the duration of the conference.

• You’ll be connected before the conference via email.
• You’ll meet in person for “Buddies Bites” during the conference.
• You’ll check in during the event at your own pace.

Many participants find their buddy relationship extends well beyond the conference, turning a short-term connection into a lasting professional friendship.

HOW TO SIGN-UP

Sign-up during the registration process for PACTcon 2026. If you have already registered but are interested in signing up for the Buddies Program please contact Membership & Communications Manager Ainslee at ainsleej@pact.ca

DEADLINE

The deadline to register is Monday, March 16, 2026. If you are interested and the deadline has passed, please contact ainsleej@pact.ca

IMPORTANT DATES

Buddies will be assigned by Monday, March 20, 2026.

The Pre-Conference Virtual Buddies gathering is on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 from 1:00-1:45 pm. 

Please register to ensure you receive the link to the virtual event.