Event Coordinator, Canada Health Infoway
I found this industry when I had nothing left to lose. I was 25, living in a small town, and working at Tim Hortons. I was feeling hopeless and in need of direction. I didn’t know a thing about the Events Industry, but chose to go to Durham College for Special Events Planning on a desperate whim for change. Thankfully, it turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made.
I can say that I truly started my career during my time at school because I spent my time outside of class immersed in the volunteer world, and began to gain real industry experience and contacts. Additionally, I got involved in Meeting Professionals International Toronto Chapter as the MPI Toronto Student Club President. I was a driven, goal-oriented, and risk-taking student that was willing to jump into experiences feet first with the hopes it would make me the best novice industry professional I could be.
I started my ‘real’ job the day after my final day of college. I was hired as the Events Intern for Canada Health Infoway. After interning for six months, I was promoted to Event Coordinator, where I have been for two years. I am one pillar of a small but mighty team of three planners that execute up to 100 events a year, including meetings, social events, conferences, tradeshows, and webinars. Within these two years, my job description and responsibilities continue to evolve on a day-to-day basis. I began as a strong administrative and support role for my teammates, but have since taken on my own clients, projects, and events that have allowed me to demonstrate my planning and leadership skills.
I am adamant that my continuous learning and volunteerism are the keys to my success within our industry. I am currently studying for my CMP designation and I am a proud volunteer for MPI Toronto as the current Marketing Chair and a member of the Young Leaders Advisory Council for MPI global. I am extremely grateful for the experiences and connections I’ve made because of my involvements.
