Reflections on VIATEC Awards 2025

On May 1st, 2025, I had the privilege of attending the VIATEC Awards with two Remarkable Communications team members at the Victoria Conference Centre: an unforgettable night celebrating innovation and creativity in our growing tech community.

With over 600 attendees and an energetic, bright atmosphere, the event was nothing short of spectacular. One of the most memorable moments was the return of a VIATEC tradition, “Orca Toss Chaos,” where inflatable whales were flung through the crowd.

A huge thank you to the organizers and everyone who helped to make the evening so special. The VIATEC team truly outdid themselves when it came to designing a perfectly immersive disco-tech theme for the night. With bright purple lights and a live band performing reimagined disco classics, this event reflected what the VIATEC Awards are all about: celebrating the impact, creativity and innovation of the tech community.

Credit: Trevor Ball

It was such an honour to be a finalist in the emerging leader category. This accomplishment wouldn’t be possible without my incredible team at Remarkable Communications and the Indigenous communities and leaders who I am privileged to serve.

From a group of around 120 nominees and 50 finalists, 15 people received awards. I am inspired by the dedication, tenacity, innovation, and impact of all the finalists. I was also so thrilled to see so many women in tech being represented! This is a huge step forward in a historically male-dominated industry. Congratulations to all the winners!

Thank you again to everyone who has supported me on this journey. Special shout-out to WVenture; your support means a lot.

Here’s to continuing to grow, lead, and create positive impact together!

- Laurel Anne Stark