Powered By Heart: TDC announces theme of Rendez-vous 2026

Transat Distribution Canada (TDC) has announced the theme of Rendez-vous 2026, its flagship fall event: “Powered by [Heart]” (the official title uses a blue heart emoji).

In an era defined by artificial intelligence, platforms, and automation, TDC wants to highlight a simple truth that makes all the difference: in travel, trust cannot be downloaded.

“It is built — by the people behind every project, every itinerary, and every challenge resolved along the way,” the company said. “Powered by [Heart] celebrates what truly drives the industry forward every day: expertise, listening, judgment, and empathy.”

“Technology — and especially AI — is a powerful ally. It helps travel professionals become more efficient, agile, and high-performing,” said Karine Gagnon, general manager of TDC, in a release. “But travel remains a fundamentally human experience. It is travel advisors who give it meaning, who ensure it aligns with their clients’ aspirations, and who inspire confidence at the moment of decision.”

 “With Powered by [Heart], we continue to reaffirm what our network stands for: innovation only has value when it serves people — travellers, as well as the partners and teams who bring the industry to life.”

Keynote speaker lineup

As always, TDC will offer inspiring and practical content delivered by leading keynote speakers.

First, Jasmin Bergeron, Professor at Université du Québec à Montréal and author, will present his signature keynote, Create a WOW Effect.

His message? We remember for a long time the people who make us experience a “wow.” He will share what they have in common, along with concrete strategies to leave a lasting impression — because you only get one chance to make a great final impression.

Next, Édith Lemay will present Eyes Wide Open. Over the course of just over a year, this mother of four travelled the world with her family to fill her children’s visual memory — three of whom will lose their sight — with images, memories, and beauty. A deeply moving story about humans, powered by their hearts, showing adversity, and above all, resilience, captured in a National Geographic documentary.

“This keynote will resonate strongly with our network, as travel professionals support people who have a story — or who are searching for one, for an experience,” noted Gagnon. “Édith Lemay’s message, focused on how we respond to challenges, is both inspiring and full of hope.”

Rendez-vous 2026, the English edition, will take place at the Hilton Mississauga/Meadowvale on September 26 and 27, 2026. 

A French edition will also be held at the Centre de congrès de Saint-Hyacinthe on September 19 and 20, 2026.

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