Paddling Together: A Future Built on Connection, Creativity, and Community

On October 30th, over 200 of us gathered under the stars at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre to explore what it means to paddle together into a future shaped by innovation, creativity, and community. It was an evening full of inspiration, sparked by the wisdom of Indigenous traditions, the possibilities of AI, and the connections that only happen when people come together with shared purpose.

But this message comes with a bittersweet note. One of our guiding lights for this series, my dear friend and collaborator Ender, passed away unexpectedly a few days ago.

Ender embodied the spirit of our local AI community. From prototyping space gear for leading agencies to inspiring the people around them to think bigger and bolder, Ender’s curiosity knew no limits.

As we paddle forward, I’ll help ensure his legacy stays with us lighting the way toward a more connected, creative, and human-centered future. We’ll miss you friend. To infinity and beyond! :(

From the grounding welcome by Tsleil-Waututh Nation’s Gabriel George Sr. to Dr. Suzanne Gildert’s provocative insights on quantum AI consciousness, the night was an exploration of what it means to innovate ethically and creatively in a rapidly shifting world.

As we prepare for the next Vancouver AI Community Meetup on November 27th, I want to invite you to join us in keeping the spirit of collaboration alive. Let’s continue to paddle together—toward an ethical, human-centered approach to technology, fueled by connection, creativity, and the community we’ve built.

Ender believed in this work, in this community, and in each of us. Let’s honor their memory by staying curious, engaged, and open to the possibilities ahead.

With gratitude,

Kris Krüg
778. 898. 3076