M inister of Canadian Heritage Steven Guilbeault has joined the growing list of leaders headed to the 42nd Banff World Media Festival (BANFF).

Taking place online from June 14 to July 16, the minister is set to speak on June 17 as part of a virtual keynote conversation during the festival’s new Marketplace Week – which runs from June 14 to 18 – kicking off a month of curated online programming.

“In these difficult times, we couldn’t be more proud to support a creative, dynamic and innovative industry that brings culture to the forefront,” Guilbeault said in a statement.

“The Banff World Media Festival is a must-attend international marketplace where the world’s largest broadcasters and digital media companies discuss issues and trends, forge relationships, and provide unique networking opportunities. New projects and co-productions take shape at this festival, allowing Canadian creativity to shine and spread to audiences across the globe.”

Featuring delegates from more than 50 countries and the world’s top creatives, executives, networks and media companies, the 2021 edition of the festival will feature a purpose-built online platform that will connect the global media industry in real-time to ignite new projects as well as support business development.

“This is a watershed year with monumental challenges and paradigm change shaping the present and future for Canadian and international cultural and media industries,” said Banff World Media Festival executive director Jenn Kuzmyk. “As the hub for important conversations that effect action and point the way forward, we are thrilled to host Minister Guilbeault at BANFF 2021. We look forward to working with the Canadian government and all industry stakeholders at this year’s Festival and beyond.”

Guilbeault previously spoke at BANFF last year.

This year’s festival will also include keynote sessions with Netflix co-CEO and chief content officer Ted Sarandos as well as CRTC chairperson and CEO Ian Scott.

Additionally, exclusive “In Conversation With” sessions include Warner Bros. Television chairman Channing Dungey, producer Greg Berlanti and executive producer/actor Kaley Cuoco on HBO Max series The Flight Attendant, and Marvel Studios president and Marvel CCO Kevin Feige and Mad Rabbit CEO Kari Skogland on Marvel Studios’ The Falcon and The Winter Soldier starring Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan.