Connect. Paddle. Inspire.
Connect. Paddle. Inspire.
Join us for a unique morning of kayaking, connection, and conversation featuring special guest speaker Iris Guo, tech community builder and podcast host.
We’ll begin at Cherry Beach with a short interactive talk on building meaningful tech communities, leadership, and creating spaces where people genuinely belong.
From there, we’ll launch into a guided kayak journey through Biidaasigie Park with Lawrence Warriner, exploring Toronto’s waterfront ecology, wildlife, and hidden natural beauty from the water.
A refreshing blend of meaningful conversation, nature, and community connection.
🛶 Kayaking + Tech Community Building
🎤 Featured Guest Speaker: Iris Guo
🧭 Guide: Lawrence Warriner
📍 Cherry Beach
🗓️ May 30 | 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
🌱 In collaboration with Toronto Tech Week, Don’t Mess With The Don, Iris Lens Live, and Airess.
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Who This Is For
Whether you’re deeply embedded in the tech ecosystem or simply curious about community, nature, and innovation — you’re welcome.
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Kayaking Experience
This is a beginner-friendly guided kayaking experience through Toronto’s waterfront and Biidaasigie Park.
Participants will paddle in a relaxed group setting with opportunities for conversation and connection throughout the journey.
Kayaks and safety equipment will be provided. A certified lifeguard will also be paddling with the group.
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What to Bring
• Comfortable clothing suitable for paddling; it may be cooler on the water
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen / hat
• Small towel if desired
• Comfortable footwear that can get wet
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Capacity
Space is limited to help create a more intentional and connected experience.
RSVP does not guarantee a spot. Confirmations will be sent by email approximately 48 hours before the event so we can coordinate thoughtfully.
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About the Hosts
Don’t Mess With The Don (DMWTD)
A Toronto-based environmental and community initiative focused on protecting, celebrating, and reconnecting people with the Don River and surrounding ecosystems.
Iris Lens Live
A live podcasting community for product builders in Toronto focused on AI upskilling, practical workflows, and authentic conversations around innovation and technology.
Airess
A community-driven group of women who gather monthly to explore AI, vibe coding, coworking, and collaborative learning.
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Celebrating Toronto Tech Week:
Toronto Tech Week is a citywide celebration of the people building what’s next. From May 25–29, 2026, founders, investors, and builders come together for hundreds of community-led events across Toronto, connecting tens of thousands of people around Canadian tech. Torontotechweek.com.
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Location
DMWTD Kayak Containers at the east end of the Cherry Beach parking lot. Cherry Beach, 1 Cherry Street, Toronto, ON M5A 1A1
Please note that registration is required.
If severe weather occurs, participants will be contacted using the email provided during registration.