CAPS History: Unlocking Limitless Possibilities for over 25 years
Welcome to the captivating history of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (CAPS). Here, we delve into the past, tracing the remarkable journey that has shaped CAPS into what it is today – a vibrant community of professional speakers dedicated to inspiring, empowering, and connecting minds across the nation.
The creation of a community
In the ever-evolving landscape of professional speaking, CAPS was formed as a testament to the power of collaboration and shared passion. Our association has a rich history that shaped who we are today. Our story began in:
1984
Professional Speakers of Alberta - CAPS' roots take hold with the formation of the first NSA Chapter outside of the US and was led by their first president, Kit Grant, CSP, HoF.
1988
Ontario Speakers Association elects their first president, Tom Stoyan, HoF.
1996
The official establishment of The Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (CAPS) as an association solely dedicated to professional speakers in Canada.
1997
CAPS is a founding member of the International Federation of Professional Speakers (IFFPS), now known as the Global Speakers Federation (GSF).
A tradition unlike any other
As our association grew, so did our unique traditions. One such tradition, the "Presidential Banana Ceremony” is a quirky, yet meaningful tradition, that symbolizes the passing of leadership within CAPS, uniting us in a spirit of camaraderie.
1997
From its inception, and every year since at our annual convention, the Banana Ceremony involves the passing of a banana (instead of a gavel) through the line of past presidents, until it reaches the current president, and president-elect. The incoming president is then ‘knighted’ as President and invited to give their address to the membership.
A Voice for Excellence
In the world of speaking, excellence is the guiding star. CAPS has continually strived for excellence in shaping the meetings industry:
2003-2015
Speaking of IMPACT magazine was introduced, focusing on excellence in all aspects of planning and delivering meetings, setting the stage for growth.
2010
CAPS is a founding member of the Business Events Industry Coalition of Canada (now Meetings Mean Business Canada – MMBC)
A tradition of caring
Throughout the years, CAPS has affirmed its commitment to our members:
2005
The CAPS Foundation is proposed to the National Board
2007
The CAPS Foundation elects its first Board Chair, Michael Hughes, and receives its first seed money.
2010
The CAPS Foundation reaches a remarkable milestone by raising $100,000, a testament to our commitment to caring for our members in times of need.
2011
The CAPS Foundation issues its first grant through the Professional Members Benefit Fund (PMBF).
2017
A pivotal moment when the CAPS Foundation became an official incorporated entity, marking a significant step in our journey.
Uniting the Canadian landscape
As our community expanded, so did our geographical reach. We witnessed unity through the expansion and amalgamation of our chapters:
2008
CAPS Hamilton merges with CAPS Toronto
2012
CAPS Halifax expands to become CAPS Atlantic, weaving together all our maritime provinces.
2018
CAPS Vancouver grows to become CAPS BC, connecting members from Vancouver Island and across the province.
2018
CAPS Edmonton amalgamates with CAPS Calgary, strengthening the Alberta spirit.
2020
CAPS Manitoba and CAPS Saskatchewan merge, forming CAPS Prairie Shield, further cementing our national presence.
2021
CAPS Montreal expands to become CAPS Quebec, forging bonds across our French-speaking province.
2022
CAPS' 25th anniversary – a remarkable milestone, and a testament to our enduring spirit.
2023
CAPS Calgary expands to encompass the entire province and becomes CAPS Alberta.
A legacy of visionaries
Throughout our history, CAPS has been led by remarkable individuals who have left an indelible mark on our community and in guiding us toward excellence in speaking:
- David Sweet (1995-1996): Theme - To Belong Is To Serve
- Brian Dalzell (1997)
- Warren Evans, HoF (1998) (deceased)
- Patricia Katz, HoF (2000): Theme - Building!
- Jim Beaubien, HoF (2001)
- Valerie Cade (2002): Theme - Simply World Class
... and many more, each contributing to CAPS' growth and success. View our past presidents.
Become a Part of the Story
If you're a professional speaker looking to make a lasting impact, expand your horizons, and connect with a vibrant community of like-minded individuals, CAPS is the place to be. We invite you to become part of our rich history and help shape the future of professional speaking in Canada.
Join us today and unlock your limitless possibilities.
“CAPS is a ‘peer-to-peer CAA’ for my business. I can call CAPS members across Canada any time and get their advice, insights, and support.”
Ron Tsang
Member since 2015
“I joined CAPS for connection, community, development and courage. Being immersed in a group living and breathing a similar passion and purpose is both invigorating and rewarding!”
Trisha Miltimore
Member since 2021
“One of my favourite resources is the CAPS Facebook page. Whenever I'm dealing with a sticky situation, or exploring a new idea, I can post there and within hours, I will receive several quality responses from experts in the field. It is like having a team of free business consultants.”
Mark Black, CSP
Member since 2006
“My CAPS Membership is an annual investment that pays for itself 100-times-over every darn year through idea-sharing, collaboration, business growth, and life-long friendships.”
Michelle Cederberg, CSP, HoF
Member since 2002
“What do I get out of CAPS? Top-notch resources to help me build my speaking business, a true generosity of spirit among its members, a community of people who inspire me, and incredible friendships.”
Susannah Baum
Member since 2008