The International University of Information Management (IUIM), in collaboration with the Institute of Information Management (IIM) Canada Chapter, hosted the 2024 Annual Convention, Induction, and Investiture on Friday, at the City of Toronto Archives, recently.
The event, themed “Guardians of Information: Safeguarding Data Security and Privacy in a Digital World,” underscored the critical role of information security and privacy in today’s digital landscape.
This year’s convention brought together industry leaders, government officials, and information management professionals to discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities in data security and privacy.
Through a series of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, participants gained valuable insights into best practices for safeguarding information in the digital age.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Oyedokun Ayodeji Oyewole, international president/chairman of IIM Africa, emphasized the importance of protecting data security and privacy in an increasingly interconnected world.
There was a presentation by a Senior Information Analyst from the City of Toronto, detailing how government records are managed, along with an overview of the City Archives’ mandate and collections by Evan Alexiou, City Archivist, City of Toronto Archives.
The session led by the City’s Privacy Unit, focused on the legislation governing privacy of information in Toronto, and the challenges of balancing public access to government records with the need to protect personal privacy.
Participants were given a guided tour of the Conservation Lab and Records Centre, facilitated by Neil Brochu, Supervisor of Reference & Outreach at the City of Toronto Archives.
Induction and Certification Ceremony:
A highlight of the event was the certification of professional archivists from the City of Toronto Archives by the Institute of Information Management.
A total of eighteen (18) professionals were inducted into various membership categories. Honorary Fellows inducted include: Neil Brochu – Supervisor, Reference & Outreach, City of Toronto Archives; Sarah Carson – Supervisor, Collections Management & Standards, City of Toronto Archives; Paul Proia – Supervisor, Records Centre Operations, City of Toronto Archives; Paul Gardiner – Archivist, Digital Collections, City of Toronto Archives; Evan Alexiou – City Archivist, City of Toronto Archives; Paul Sharkey – Reference & Digital Engagement Archivist, City of Toronto Archives.
Liam Peppe, a senior information analyst with the City Clerk’s Office, provided an overview of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, highlighting the importance of public access to government information while ensuring personal privacy is protected.
Key topics included the processes for Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, routine disclosure, and open data initiatives.
Honorary Awards Program:
The convention also celebrated individuals who have demonstrated excellence in the field of information management. Distinguished guests were conferred with honorary doctorate degrees from the prestigious International University of Information Management (USA).
Honorees included: Chief (Mrs) Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, The Iyaloja General of Nigeria; Elizabeth Ejindu, FIIM, Founder/CEO, Queen Cassio Outreach, Nigeria/USA, and Sujoy Kumar Goswami, Senior Director (Technical Head AI), NTT Data, Bangalore, Karnataka.