Dear AMA Toronto community,
As I begin my term as President, I want to thank you — our members, volunteers, partners, and board — for your ongoing commitment to this vibrant and ever-evolving organization. AMA Toronto has always been more than just a professional association. Our DNA is rooted in people — a network that genuinely cares, invests in each other’s leadership journeys, and works together to shape the future of marketing. I’m excited (and humbled) to lead us into this next chapter.
Over the past year, we’ve been asking important questions about who we are and where we’re headed. The result is a bold, three-year strategic vision that will carry us through to 2028, built on core pillars:
First, we’re committed to cultivating a diverse, inclusive, and purpose-driven membership — one that reflects the real world of marketing. Our board speaks 12+ languages, and we’re proud to be recognized globally as leaders in the academic marketing community. Our newly appointed DEI portfolio is already cooking up exciting plans to bring even more focus to what matters most: representation, equity, and inclusion. Especially now, in today’s world, celebrating diversity is not just important — it’s essential.
Second, we’re expanding our global embrace. No other organization can match our access to a network of 24,000+ marketing, advertising, digital, and communications professionals across borders. Marketing isn’t Canadian or American anymore — it’s global, fluid, and beautifully interdisciplinary. That’s exactly who we are.
Third, we’re doubling down on thought leadership and learning ecosystem. Incredible voices have shaped AMA Toronto over the past 70 years — and we’re here to amplify them, while building space for new ones to rise. We will continue focusing on creating genuine connections between academics, professionals, and industry leaders. Whether through mentorship, shared projects, or just showing up for each other, this is how we grow.
To support all of this, we are prioritizing operational excellence and innovation in 2025 – 2026, embracing digital tools, refining our processes, and delivering seamless, high-impact experiences.
So this is your invitation: join us. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, grow, lead, mentor, or just meet like-minded people, AMA Toronto is your platform. And if you’d like to connect personally, I’d love to meet you — virtual coffee, a morning walk, or a quick chat.
Reach out anytime at maxim.rakov@ama-toronto.com
Let’s build the future of marketing — together.
Warm regards,
Maxim Rakov
President, AMA Toronto