Social innovation shines as UCalgary becomes global stage

The University of Calgary recently hosted the prestigious 2025 International Social Innovation Research Conference (ISIRC), marking the first time this global gathering has taken place in Western Canada. 

The three-day event, which ran from Sept. 3 to 5, marked a significant milestone for UCalgary, showcasing research excellence and the university’s role as a convener of thought leadership as global scholars, researchers, students and practitioners shared innovative approaches to complex social challenges. 

Focused on embracing diversity and connection, delegates described the event as inspiring, diverse and insightful, noting it provided valuable insights into the work of the global social-innovation research community. 

For many, it was an excellent opportunity to engage with others and hold concrete discussions about the application of social innovation research and its outcomes. 

“Hosting ISIRC showcased leaders in advancing social innovation,” says Dr. Karen Benzies, PhD, director of UCalgary’s Social Innovation Initiative. 

“It allowed us to bring global expertise to Calgary, highlight the work happening here and create pathways for collaboration that will shape the future of social innovation.”

Delegates shared research and practices addressing various societal issues, including health equity, impact measurement and inclusive economic development. 

Workshops, keynote sessions and interactive panels provided a platform for researchers and students to connect across disciplines and sectors, fostering connection and knowledge exchange.

These exchanges will inform and enrich research priorities, curriculum development and community partnerships, amplifying UCalgary’s commitment to driving impactful change through social innovation research, programs, services and initiatives. 

Conference attendees heard from two visiting ISIRC scholars: Dr. Jurgen Howaldt, PhD, of the Social Research Centre, Dortmund, Germany, and Dr. Filipe Almeida, PhD, president of Portugal Social Innovation. 

A first for ISIRC

For the first time in ISIRC’s history, the program included a dedicated Indigenous stream, highlighting Indigenous-led approaches to social innovation, creating space for critical dialogue on community-driven change. 

This focus underscored UCalgary’s commitment to advancing Reconciliation and recognizing Indigenous knowledge systems as vital contributors to global research and practice.

UCalgary shines on the global stage

Two UCalgary researchers were standouts at the international event, earning awards for Best Oral and Poster Presentations. 

Dr. Marwa Hannouf, PhD’18, a postdoctoral associate with the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape, received the best student oral presentation for Social Life Cycle Assessment for Social Impact Measurement. This work addresses the pressing need for sustainability and social responsibility in business, showcasing a systems-based approach that integrates Social Life Cycle Assessment into social impact-measurement frameworks. 

Meanwhile, Gabriel Joaquino, BN’22, a Faculty of Nursing research assistant, captivated attendees with his award-winning poster presentation, From Lyrics to Superheros: Bridging Health Research with Relatable Media. By using relatable media, such as music and compelling narratives, Joaquino’s team developed a visionary approach to make health research accessible, engaging and easily understood.  

Beyond the conference

The event generated diverse outcomes, with delegates cultivating new or expanded projects and collaborations. Others received valuable feedback on ongoing research, which may influence future directions in their field. 

Ideas shared are now informing the design of new academic programs and course offerings aimed at integrating social innovation more deeply. 

Delegates also learned about social innovation initiatives occurring abroad, which provided valuable comparative perspectives and fostered a deeper understanding of the diverse contexts surrounding shared social issues. 

“By convening this international community, we’re not only sharing knowledge, we’re helping to shape the global conversation on how social innovation can tackle society’s most pressing challenges,” says Benzies. 

“It’s about embracing a culture that encourages new ways of thinking, testing ideas and translating research into positive impact.”