Cultural Diplomacy for Ontario: New Horizons

This event, convened by the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario on 16 September 2025, explored Ontario’s unique contributions to cultural diplomacy through the lenses of local innovation and global engagement. It asks: “What key players and networks are driving this work? How do their practices reflect broader international cultural currents?” 

Conversations about cultural diplomacy often gravitate toward national governments and their formal international initiatives. Yet this perspective overlooks the dynamic and diverse cultural diplomacy taking place at subnational levels—particularly in provinces and cities. In Ontario, cultural diplomacy is alive in the everyday practices of artists, cultural organizations, municipalities, creative enterprises, and sport. Whether through the arts or international sporting engagement, these actors are forging international connections, advancing global agendas, and shaping Ontario’s culturalpresence on the world stage. 

Panelists: 

Ige Egal, CEO of Play for Dignity and member of the Board of Directors at MLSE LaunchPad   

Dr. Sarah E.K. Smith, Canada Research Chair in Art, Culture and Global Relations at Western University  

Karen Thorne-Stone, President & CEO, Ontario Creates

Organized and moderated by Dr. Sascha Priewe, Director of Collections & Public Programs, Aga Khan Museum and Co-Founder, North American Cultural Diplomacy Initiative