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Speaking, Toronto · September 25, 2026

Keynote, workshop or emcee: which does your event actually need?

Three formats, three different jobs. How to pick the right one for your conference or offsite.

Planners often book a keynote when the event really needs a workshop, or skip an emcee and wonder why the day felt disjointed.

Keynote

One idea, delivered well, to the whole room. Best for openings, closings and moments where you want everyone aligned.

Workshop

More time and real participation. Nobody watches from the back. Best when you want people to leave having practised something, not just heard it.

Emcee

Clear pacing, prepared transitions and a steady hand for the whole event. The room never feels the seams.

Combining them

A strong pattern is a morning keynote followed by an afternoon workshop for a smaller group. The idea lands, then gets put to work the same day.

Read the full guide on choosing a keynote speaker on the blog, or see Dai's formats on the speaking page.

Dai in Toronto

Planning an event in Toronto? See how Dai works with Toronto audiences.

Keynote speaking in Toronto

Next step

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