Val Thomas has been advocating for talent recognition since 2013 when she initiated an Open Badges pilot – a first-of-its-kind for the Government of Canada.  Since then, she has been building momentum towards unearthing the unique potential of all people as contributors to meaningful experiences, at work and in everyday life.  She has a deep understanding of, and appreciation for, people’s potential to learn, to contribute, to grow and to adapt.  She believes that when people are given the opportunity to apply their unique blend of experiences, knowledge, skills, abilities, passion and perspectives; some of the most complex problems can be solved. At the heart of this vision, is the need to recognize the potential of individuals in all of its diverse forms. Val is currently reimagining credential recognition as part of the Talent Cloud project.