'We can train ourselves to thrive in uncertainty,' says keynote speaker
Lisa Belanger, CEO and behavior change specialist at Conscious Works Consulting, is preparing to deliver the opening keynote at the Women in Safety Summit in Calgary in March. Belanger, known for her expertise in mental agility and adaptability, promises to inspire attendees with her dynamic perspective on navigating change.
"I just think it's wonderful," Belanger says about the Summit. "This is such a unique, awesome group to come together and have these discussions." Her keynote focuses on mental agility, a topic she not only studies but lives daily. "What I love about this topic is that it’s not just about work—it’s how it integrates with your life. It’s about finding creative and practical solutions people can implement right away," she explains.
Belanger plans to highlight the increasing importance of adaptability in today’s fast-paced world, particularly for safety professionals facing constant challenges. "We are not naturally great at dealing with change because we’ve adapted to perceive it as a possible harm or threat," she acknowledges. "But there are ways we can train ourselves to thrive in uncertainty and even lean into it."
As the safety industry adopts new technologies like AI, Belanger recognizes both the opportunities and the stress this evolution can create. "With advancements in AI, it’s not just about how the technology supports us but also about how humans can respond and communicate effectively with it," she says. For her, the key lies in cultivating attention and focus amid distractions. "These skills become even more important as we look forward into the future."
Belanger also addresses the human side of workplace safety, emphasizing collective well-being over individual efforts. "It’s about taking care of each other right now," she says passionately. "It’s not about self-care—it’s about team care. It’s about showing up for your teammates and the people in your home. Imagine how much further we could go if we supported each other rather than trying to motivate individuals in isolation."
Attendees at the Summit can expect to leave Belanger’s keynote with a renewed sense of confidence in handling life’s uncertainties. "I hope people feel more confident navigating all the changes—whether it’s in their jobs, or even in those really difficult parts of life," she says. For Belanger, it’s about equipping people with the tools to adapt while fostering a culture of support and collaboration.
As she anticipates her time at the event, Belanger is eager to learn as much as she shares. "I’m curious about the female experience in this industry. It’s still male-dominated, and I’m interested in understanding the unique challenges women face," she says.
Belanger’s keynote promises to set the tone for a transformative and empowering summit. "The easiest way to create change is by fostering a social environment that supports it," she says. "It’s about working together to build a stronger, more resilient future."
