Westin Hotel, Saskatchewan Room – 3^rd level

Smoothies & Solutions

There is never a dull moment in Ottawa!  After you check in at the Westin Hotel, join the CHFA team and your NOW industry colleagues for an exclusive networking session with Members of Parliament.

After what will be a busy day on The Hill, we invite all to unwind with smoothies, energizing snacks, and strategic conversations. This is an optional but unique opportunity to share your insights, highlight industry priorities, and build relationships with newly elected MPs who are eager to support their constituents.

When CHFA hits The Hill, its always a good time for a good chat about the future of natural, organic and wellness in Canada.

Experience the enchanting beauty of the National Capital Region like never before on our world-famous Ottawa River Cruise. This unforgettable journey will take our delegation on a breathtaking adventure that has been the best way to explore the region since 1936. Take in over 50 focal points from Parliament Hill to the Canadian Museum of History, 24 Sussex Drive to the stunning Rideau Falls. Light fare and drinks included. No additional fees or registration required.

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Continue the day with a moment of reflection and connection. In honour of the unceded territory on which we gather, a Madahuki Cultural Ambassador will guide us through a traditional and uplifting opening ceremony to ground our Forum in respect, gratitude, and shared purpose.

Get inspired as the CHFA leadership team, including Aaron Skelton (President & CEO), Sonia Parmar (VP, Regulatory & Government Affairs), and Jules Gorham (Director, Regulatory Affairs & Policy), sets the tone for the day. Discover the vision driving innovation, collaboration, and growth across the Natural, Organic & Wellness (NOW) industry as we embark on this exciting new chapter together.

We are at a pivotal moment where science, nature, and the wellness movement intersect like never before. In the Natural, Organic and Wellness (NOW) industry, the opportunity—and responsibility—to lead with innovation has never been greater. As consumers demand authenticity, sustainability, and results, how we integrate scientific rigor with the wisdom of nature will define the next generation of wellness. This talk explores how businesses, researchers, and creators in this space can become true pioneers—merging evidence-based insights with natural solutions to shape a healthier, more conscious future.

Speaker: David Nelson, Nova Institute for Health, Health First Network

David Nelson is at the forefront of the emerging field generalism, advocating a broad knowledge base, synthesizing diverse information, and infusing unique insights into emerging solutions. As a non-specialist, he leverages relativism and perspective to forge innovative connections across disciplines. His work spans integrative medical modalities, the emerging field of nutritional criminology, and complex, interdependent community systems that drive change. Additionally, David owns three health food store locations in Ontario, is a founding member of the Earthrise Community within the Planetary Health Alliance, and serves as Invited Faculty at the Nova Institute for Health—a heart-centered planetary health research think tank. 

CHFA is honoured to welcome Stephen Norman, Director General of the Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD), to the CHFA Regulatory Forum. Join us for an exclusive armchair conversation with CHFA President & CEO Aaron Skelton, as they explore the latest developments shaping the regulatory landscape for the natural, organic, and wellness industry in Canada. This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from a key government leader in a candid, impactful setting.

Speaker: Stephen Norman, Director General, Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD)

Stephen Norman is the Director General of the Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD). He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Guelph in 1994. He joined the federal public service in 1995 in the Pesticides Directorate of Agriculture and Agri-food Canada. Stephen worked at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency in various roles from 2001 to 2018, including as laboratory director, and overseeing national food laboratory operations and surveillance. Stephen joined Health Canada’s Food Directorate in January 2019 as Director of the Bureau of Chemical Safety. He was appointed Director of the Bureau of Nutritional Sciences in February 2021, then joined NNHPD as Director General in April 2024.  

Innovation in natural health products demands a layered strategic approach, not just reactionary compliance. In this session, Salix Sciences presents a case demonstrating how scientific strategy, regulatory strategy, and IP strategy work together to drive innovation. By integrating technology development, research planning, university collaborations, and grant funding with formulation design, efficacy modeling, and clinical trials, we ensure a seamless path from concept to commercialization. Learn how leveraging Canadian research capabilities through proactive, multi-layered strategies delivers regulatory success, scientific validation, and market impact, shaping the future of natural health products.

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Discover how global trends are shaping the future of Canada’s natural, organic, and wellness (NOW) sector in this dynamic session led by EDC’s Senior Economist, Prince Owusu. With over 20 years of experience analyzing the Canadian, U.S., and global economies, Prince brings deep insights into how shifting market forces from inflation and demographics to geopolitics and U.S. policy are creating both challenges and opportunities for Canadian exporters.

Gain strategic intelligence on emerging international markets, sector-specific insights on agrifood and natural health products, and a sneak peek at EDC’s latest global economic outlook. Whether you’re export-ready or just exploring, this session will help you position your business for international success.

Speaker: Prince Owusu, Senior Economist, Export Development Canada 

Prince is a Senior Economist with over 20 years’ experience in economic forecasting and geopolitical analysis. At Export Development Canada, he oversees macroeconomic policy for the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, providing market intelligence on agrifood, seafood, fertilizer, and lumber. He previously spent 16 years at the Conference Board of Canada.

Take this opportunity to enjoy a thoughtfully prepared lunch while engaging in meaningful conversations with industry colleagues. Reflect on the insights from the morning sessions, share perspectives, and continue building valuable connections.

As Canadian businesses look to diversify their trade partnerships and expand into new markets, the AgriMarketing Program (AMP) offers a valuable pathway for CHFA members. Join Sonia Parmar from CHFA and Carrie Marr, Senior Program Officer at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), for an exclusive session exploring how the AMP supports growth in international markets beyond Canada and the U.S. Discover how your business can leverage this federal program to boost export readiness and drive global success.

Speakers: 

• Sonia Parmar, VP Regulatory Affairs & Government Relations, CHFA
• Carrie Marr, Senior Program Office, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Carrie Marr is a Senior Program Officer at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), working with the AgriMarketing Program. She brings over 30 years of experience in international business development and trade. Carrie spent 27 years at Global Affairs Canada, where she supported national business associations, led initiatives for Business Women in International Trade, and helped small and medium-sized enterprises succeed globally—while also coordinating trade missions for the Minister of International Trade. In her current role, she works with national industry associations in the value-added sector to manage and implement international marketing projects.

The regulatory landscape and global supply chains are evolving rapidly, with Trump’s presidency already bringing shifts in trade policy, tariffs, and cross-border regulations. At the same time, Canada has a new leader, adding further uncertainty for businesses navigating supply chain challenges. This panel will feature a representative from the Chamber of Commerce and industry experts discussing the biggest risks facing supply chains, what businesses should prepare for, and strategic considerations to maintain resilience in this shifting political and economic environment.

Alex Greco is Senior Director of Manufacturing and Value Chains at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, where he leads national policy efforts to strengthen Canada’s manufacturing sector and value chains. He has extensive experience in government relations, public policy, and stakeholder engagement, with a focus on aerospace, defence, and advanced manufacturing. Alex is the Past-President of the Public Affairs Association of Canada (Ontario Chapter) and has served on several boards. He holds an Honours BA and an MA in Political Science from the University of Toronto.

Christian Sood holds a Ph.D. in Biochemical Toxicology from the University of Toronto and is CEO of the Reena Group, a leading company in the Natural Health Product and Dietary Supplement industry. With over 40 years of experience, he has led consulting and analytical operations across Canada and the U.S., working closely with Health Canada on quality systems. A published researcher, Christian has contributed to journals like JACS and the British Journal of Cancer, and collaborates with organizations such as GRMA, NSF, USP, and AOAC to advance regulatory and quality standards in the natural health sector.

Adam Gibson has been working in the regulatory field of medicines for over 20 years including many years working in government as well as multiple industry associations. He was a former Director General of the Natural Health Products program at Health Canada and has direct government regulatory experience in prescription drugs, OTC drugs, clinical trials, natural health products, food and medical devices.  He now leads a consulting firm with clients in the natural health product, patient group, academic and charities sectors.

Bringing a product to market in Canada’s natural health and food sectors requires more than innovation—it demands a deep understanding of Health Canada’s evolving regulatory landscape. In this session, Dr. JP Powers will provide practical strategies to help businesses successfully manage the increasingly complex submission process.

Learn how to navigate common regulatory hurdles, improve the quality of your submissions, and align your innovation pipeline with current Health Canada expectations. Whether you’re seeking product approvals, site licensing, or guidance on compliance, this session offers clear, actionable insights to move your products from concept to shelf more efficiently.

Speaker: Dr. Jon-Paul Powers, Partner and Scientific Advisor, Gowling WLG

Jon-Paul Powers is a partner and scientific advisor in Gowling WLG’s Ottawa office. Working chiefly with the firm’s Food & Beverage Group, he advises clients on a range of complex scientific, regulatory and compliance matters pertaining to foods, supplemented foods, natural health products, cosmetics and pet supplements. In addition to product and site requirements, Dr. Powers assists clients in need of scientific support pertaining to health claim substantiation and marketing, health risk assessments, product testing and quality management systems.  

In this five-minute spotlight, hear how the Global Prebiotic Association (GPA) and SGS Nutrasource are collaborating on joint stewardship efforts to advance the prebiotics sector in Canada. They’ll highlight how their insights have informed initiatives like NutraStrong™ Prebiotic Verified and the development of Standards of Evidence—adding a new layer of credibility to the category. 

GPA is dedicated to the science, education, and growth of prebiotics, while SGS Nutrasource helps clients bring health and wellness products to market through clinical trials, regulatory support, and testing services.

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Recharge with a refreshing selection of light bites and beverages designed to energize and inspire. Take this time to connect with peers, share insights, and get ready for the next session.

This session will explore the evolving regulatory landscape and scientific considerations for the potential use of cannabidiol (CBD) in natural health products (NHPs) in Canada. Hear the latest on where the research stands today, and gain insight into Health Canada’s current position and the long-awaited progress toward a regulatory pathway. Panelists will share industry perspectives on innovation, market readiness, and the importance of staying informed in a shifting policy environment. The session will also examine consumer interest and the implications for future product development. Attendees will leave with a clearer picture of the opportunities and regulatory milestones shaping the future of CBD in NHPs.

Moderated by: Ashley Cornell, Director of Regulatory Affairs and Policy, CHFA

Speakers: 

• Sharan Sidhu, Founder, CEO & Director of Regulatory Affairs, Salix Sciences 
• Shane Morris, CEO, Morris & Associates
• Jay McMillan, Founder & CEO, UberGreen

Sharan Sidhu is a regulatory strategist and scientific advisor with over 15 years of experience supporting high-growth, highly regulated industries. She has led initiatives in research strategy, regulatory compliance, and policy development across the Cannabis, Natural Health Product, Psychedelic and Pharmaceutical sectors. As the founder of Salix Sciences, she works at the intersection of science, regulation, and innovation, bridging gaps between industry, academia, and government. Sharan has contributed to the development of regulatory standards, quality systems, and international policies, and is a dedicated advocate for evidence-based product development and regulatory modernization.

Dr. Shane Morris is Chief Operations Officer at Pharmala Biotech, serves on the board of Cortex, and leads Morris and Associates Consulting Inc., offering global regulatory and policy expertise. He has held executive roles in both government and the cannabis industry since 2015, including at Aurora Cannabis and HEXO. Previously, he held senior positions in multiple federal agencies, advising Cabinet on regulatory matters. Shane holds a Ph.D. in plant science and policy from NUI Galway and a B.Sc. from NUI Maynooth. A published expert, he is committed to science-based innovation and advancing regulatory excellence in emerging industries.

Jay McMillan is the Founder and CEO of UberGreen, bringing over 25 years of leadership in cannabis and technology. A cannabis industry pioneer, Jay was employee #14 at HEXO Corp., later serving as Chief Development Officer, where he led innovation, commercialization, and major partnerships, including Truss Beverages with Molson Coors. He played a key role in HEXO’s growth, IP development, and market success. Beyond cannabis, Jay has worked with Cisco, HP, VMware, and government agencies. At UberGreen, he leverages this experience to drive strategic leadership, innovation, and business development for companies with emerging products and technologies.

Get to know one of the newest players in Canada’s natural health and food manufacturing scene. In this quick introduction, NorthPack Solutions shares how their Montreal-based co-packing and tolling services ranging from blending and encapsulation to bottling and bulk packaging help brands bring high-quality products to market faster. Whether you’re scaling production or exploring new partnerships, discover how NorthPack is ready to support your growth across Canada.

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How a community is designed has an influence on the people who work and play in it, as it does their overall health.  Canadian health food stores and wellness centers are now integrating seminar offerings and coffee shops, intentionally creating spaces that serve as gathering points for the community; Professor Barbone deep dives into the role industry can and should play in developing healthy communities.  She will examine the intersection of the NOW industry on the social, economic, physical, and spiritual health of Canadian communities. 

Speaker: Patrizia Barbone, Professor, Marianopolis College

Patrizia Barbone is a professor at Marianopolis College, where she teaches Humanities and Geography. With a background in urban planning, Patrizia specialized in neighborhood planning and revitalizing blighted areas. Her professional focus was on creating vibrant, sustainable communities, emphasizing that healthy communities require more than just aesthetic appeal or functional infrastructure—they must also support individual health, strong social networks, and access to healthcare.  
 
Patrizia’s experience as an urban planner deeply influenced her current academic approach, driving her to incorporate real-world issues into her teaching. She is passionate about exploring the intersections between community well-being, urban development, and sociopolitical dynamics, with a particular focus on how maps shape our understanding of space, place, and power.

Thank you for an incredible day of learning and connecting!

Speakers: Aaron Skelton, Sonia Parmar, Jules Gorham, Ashley Cornell, CHFA