June Edition 2026

Letter from the Editor-in-Chief

By Tina Dealwis

I’m excited to bring you the June 2026 edition of the IABC/Toronto Communicator. This issue is filled with helpful information, industry trends and personal reflections on how our contributors – and the communications industry – are starting to do things differently in their work.

Beyond the Text: Risk, Culture and Emoji Intelligence

By Caterina L. Valentino

As AI begins to handle our “standard” writing, the way we use emojis has become our new digital body language. In this article, Caterina Valentino explores how to look at emojis through a quality-control lens, and treat them as “cognitive ramps” that help us build empathy and clarity in a hybrid world. It’s about making our digital spaces more inclusive, one icon at a time.

Hosting the World: How Canada is Communicating Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

By Mohammad Akkawi, VP, Professional Development & Networking, IABC/Toronto

Designing for the “average” audience leaves too many people out. Caterina Lucia Valentino explores how designing for the edges and switching from a compliance to connection mindset, can turn friction into flow and create stronger, more effective messaging for everyone.

The Human Write: Protecting Craft in the Age of AI

By Karen Traboulay, MBA, ABC, CCMP

As AI reshapes communications, Karen Traboulay discusses how communications professionals can maintain trust, authenticity and craftsmanship while embracing change.

Collaborating with Machines – How I Started Using AI to Write Blogs

By Eric Emin Wood

Can AI make you a better writer? Discover how Eric Emin Wood uses AI tools to streamline blog creation while keeping human creativity and judgment at the centre of the process.

The Quiet Rewrite

By Sachi Hegde

How AI Actually Changed My Working Week, 18 Months In

The impact of AI on Sachi Hegde’s work was subtle rather than immediate. Over time, it helped free up hours spent on research and routine tasks, allowing her to focus more on creativity, strategy and the human side of communication.

AI at Work

By Alice Namu

You’re using AI. But are you using it right?

AI can do more than save time. Explore how communicators can use AI strategically to improve workflows, avoid common mistakes and achieve better results.