While many middle-income Canadians achieved the dream of home ownership in previous decades, that vision seems increasingly elusive for younger generations and newcomers today. In this virtual session from October 7, 2026, a panel of UBC experts explored a fundamental issue: Is the dream of home ownership slipping out of reach because we haven’t done enough to protect it—or is it time to rethink the dream itself?
From the meaning and psychology of “home” to renting, alternative housing models, and the policies shaping where and how we live, this discussion examines whether belonging and stability can exist beyond home ownership. Watch the recording to gain fresh perspectives on one of Canada’s most pressing challenges as our panelists consider new tools, policies, and approaches to improve affordability—while also reimagining what home ownership could look like in the future.
Speakers
Dr. Alexandra Flynn — Associate Professor and Associate Dean, Graduate Studies and Professional Programs, Allard School of Law, UBC; Director, Housing Research Collaborative
Dr. Paul Kershaw, PhD’02 — Associate Professor, Faculty of Medicine, UBC; Founder, Generation Squeeze
Jack Favilukis — Associate Professor, Finance Division, UBC Sauder School of Business
Watch the Recording
This event was hosted by alumni UBC with support from the presenting partners of FORWARD: The Campaign for UBC including CBC and the Globe and Mail.
