FOCUS Group Consulting Inc.

I had the privilege of speaking this week at #NextCampaign2026 in Toronto as part of the Coast to Coast Political Panel. It was a thoughtful and candid conversation on the state of provincial politics in Canada, campaign strategy, and the forces shaping the next provincial elections — drawing on perspectives from across the country and across the political spectrum. Thank you to Dan Arnold for expertly moderating the discussion, and to fellow panelists Mike Burton and Matt Smith for an engaging exchange grounded in real-world campaign experience. These are the kinds of conversations our political ecosystem benefits from — practical, respectful, and focused on what comes next. A credit as well to Harneet Singh and the #NextCampaign team for convening such a strong room of practitioners, strategists, and campaign professionals. The depth of dialogue throughout the conference reinforced just how much the campaign landscape continues to evolve. Grateful for the opportunity to contribute — and energized by the work ahead!

Today’s the day! @stephenkent will be part of a coast to coast political panel at the @nextcampaign_ca event in Toronto. nextcampaign.ca/speaker/steve-… #NextCampaign Summit 2026 will help redefine the future of political campaigning, advocacy, and innovation in Canada.

Provincial elections can show us the mood of voters, regional differences on policy issues, and which campaign strategies are working or failing. This panel will talk about past and future elections in provincial politics, including the upcoming Alberta election, and the recent elections in B.C. and Newfoundland & Labrador. Our speakers, who all have direct on the ground experience leading on campaigns, will dissect provincial campaigns, and share their takeaways on effective campaign strategy. Speakers: ➡️ @calgarygrit: Former Director of Research, Advertising & Correspondence for PM Justin Trudeau. Current Chief Strategy Officer at PoliSci. ➡️ @Mikefromregina: Campaign Director, Alberta’s New Democrats ➡️ @stephenkent: Former Deputy Premier and Minister, Newfoundland and Labrador ➡️ Matt Smith: Former Chief of Staff to BC Premier David Eby Come see this and many more exclusive panels at the intersection of campaigns and technology at Next Campaign Summit 2026. Tickets are selling fast! 📅 January 15, 2026 📍 The Carlu, Toronto

Start 2026 on the right note. The Next Campaign Summit is where Canada’s top campaign strategists, political leaders, and expert voices come together to share insights, tools, and strategies shaping the future of campaigning and advocacy. Don’t miss the must-attend event setting the tone for the year ahead. #nextcampaign

Speaker Spotlight: Steve Kent We are excited to have @stephenkent, former Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Community Services for Newfoundland and Labrador speaking at Next Campaign 2026! Prior to his role in provincial politics, Steve served at the Mayor of the City of Mount Pearl, and has worked as an executive in both the media and charitable sectors. A seasoned strategist and political organizer, he serves as President of FOCUS Group Consulting Incorporated. Hear Steve’s analysis on recent provincial elections in NL and across the country, and the trends shaping campaigning at the provincial level. #Campaign2026 📅 January 15, 2026 📍 The Carlu, Toronto

Our President @stephenkent had a fun conversation recently on the “Insights from NL Business Leaders” podcast. linkedin.com/posts/jeremycb… Scouting is needed in today’s world more than ever. ⚜️ #ItStartsWithScouts

You’re stronger than you know. And you’re doing better than you think.

Here’s a great article on the incredible power of assuming positive intent. theghannadgroup.com/blog/positive-… #leadership #positiveintent

The best leaders are also the best followers.

Face it till you make it.

“Strength doesn't come from what we can do. It comes from overcoming what we once thought we couldn't.” - Rikki Roberts

Thanks so much to our team sponsors and supporters! 💙 #GoBlue #SwingThatBat #MountPearl ⚾️

Thanks so much to our team sponsors and supporters! 💙 #GoBlue #SwingThatBat #MountPearl @MPbaseball1 ⚾️

There are two places that you need to go often…

Influence the energy.

Absolutely true.

Build someone up. Pay them a compliment. Remind them they are amazing. It costs you nothing but means everything.

Hello, Little Rock! 👋🏼 Our team is thrilled to be here this week for the IIMC conference. 🌎 Municipal Clerks, what problem would you love to solve? Let’s talk about how we can help you. 💡

Be the reason someone smiles today.

Raise your voice. Take action.