The RBF is Back!

The biggest business event at Ryerson University, the Ryerson Business Forum (RBF), is about to take place. I wanted to find out what this event is all about, so I spoke to Azma Ousmand, 2^nd year Hospitality and Tourism student, and the Director of Operations for RBF.

It’s her second year volunteering to help plan the RBF, which is an afternoon for Ryerson students, faculty and figures from the business community to network. This event is a great student initiative and it gives students the chance to talk to CEO’s and Presidents of Canadian companies. With an expected turn out of 400 people, the RBF occurs annually, is themed differently each year and draws in successful people in the business world to speak to the group.

This year’s theme is “Blinded by the Green” and will focus on the trend for companies to go green. When asked why this theme was chosen, Azma said: “[It’s] turning into more than just a trend so were going to hop on it. It’s not going away anytime soon.” She also said that the forum will examine if companies are going green for the right reasons or just to attract customers. She hopes the RBF will help consumers become more knowledgeable about this.

The RBF starts with a luncheon and then members from the industry give speeches. Afterwards, there is a networking portion and then the main speakers finish off the afternoon. The 2009 forum is proud to announce that David Frum, an anti-green journalist and George Bush’s speechwriter will be speaking, as well as Chris Turner, a pro-green journalist.

After talking to Azma, I was really impressed that Ryerson students are putting so much into an event to give back to students and enhance campus life. Students can buy tickets for $45 or if you are just interested in hearing the speakers, you can buy a $15 ticket. Tickets can be purchased online or by visiting the office in the business building (TRS 3141).