Brandon, MB — The Keystone Centre Foundation is pleased to announce the Sunrise Future Leaders Conference presented by Sunrise Credit Union, featuring keynote speaker Israel Idonije, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, and former NFL defensive end. The event will take place May 14, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in the Westman Communications Group Amphitheatre at the Keystone Centre. Admission is free.
“Sunrise Credit Union is proud to help guide and support the development of future leaders by bringing them together to learn from someone who truly understands what it means to be community-minded, like Israel Idonije,” says Sunrise Credit Union President and CEO Tim Klassen. “The Sunrise Future Leaders Conference provides an excellent opportunity for youth across Western Manitoba to connect, become engaged, and develop valuable skills and knowledge that will empower them to make a positive impact in their communities.”
The Sunrise Future Leaders Conference has been developed to engage students and young adults from across the region, offering insight into leadership development, entrepreneurship, and the importance of community involvement. The Foundation aims to inspire emerging leaders by providing access to impactful voices with strong local connections.
“We are pleased that Israel was so receptive to this engagement,” said Connie Lawrence, CEO and General Manager of the Keystone Centre. “This is a tremendous opportunity for young people in Brandon and across Westman—our community’s next generation of leaders—to hear from a hometown hero and see firsthand that achieving your dreams is possible with hard work and a positive attitude. We are also incredibly grateful to the sponsors whose support helped make this event possible for our community.”
Idonije, who began his football career at Vincent Massey high school as a senior, would go on to become the first player of the modern era to play in the NFL, coming from the University of Manitoba. Following an 11-year professional football career, which included a Super Bowl appearance, Idonije has become widely recognized for his initiatives in business innovation, social enterprise, and charitable work. His address will draw from personal and professional experiences that underscore resilience, vision, and service.
The Sunrise Future Leaders Conference precedes the Foundation’s inaugural benefit dinner, Legacy & Lights, scheduled for the evening of May 14. The benefit dinner will also feature Idonije along with comedian Dave Hemstad, with proceeds supporting the Keystone Centre Foundation’s ongoing efforts to advance the long-term sustainability of the Keystone Centre.
Event Details
- Name: Sunrise Future Leaders Conference presented by Sunrise Credit Union
- Keynote Speaker: Israel Idonije
- Date & Time: May 14, 2026 — 9:30 a.m.
- Venue: Westman Communications Group Amphitheatre, Keystone Centre
- Admission: Free of charge
- Intended Audience: Students, youth, educators, and community organizations