Associations can only succeed through the work of dedicated volunteers, and that’s even more true at the leadership level. In honor of Global Meetings Industry Day and focusing on the true economic value of meetings and events, we spoke with three MPI volunteer leaders who work in the corporate sector about why they do it and how the intersection of corporations and associations can benefit us all.
Don’t miss MPI’s 12-hour digital broadcast, featuring industry leaders who share their insights and experiences on the impact of meetings on the global economy.
Dolores Castillo
Director of Sales and Marketing, JW Marriott Guadalajara, Mexico
Member, MPI Mexico Chapter Board of Directors
Chris Meyer
CEO, George P. Johnson Experience Marketing
Member, MPI International Board of Directors
Hélène Moberg
Vice President, Strategic Accounts, Encore Canada
Member, MPI Foundation Canada Council
Why did you decide to join the board of directors/council?
Dolores Castillo: After having been in this lovely industry for a “few years,” I decided it was about time to give something back in return, and the best way to do so was joining the best, most well-known association. So, I joined MPI.
Chris Meyer: During the early days of the pandemic, I was involved in a few industry consortiums, and it reminded me of how important our industry is to the global economy and how many people are employed in our industry. Watching the struggles of so many companies and people triggered me to want to do more in support of our industry and the amazing people that work within it. There are many great organizations supporting our community, but I had to choose one to dedicate my time to and MPI was attractive to me based on the power of the association and the vision.
Hélène Moberg: I’m a strong supporter of the MPI Foundation because I feel it’s important to give back to our industry through scholarships and grants to our MPI members and chapters.
How has your involvement on the board of directors/council benefited your company?
Dolores Castillo: It has given me and my represented property access to not only great friends, but great partners within the industry, opening different business possibilities for JW Marriott Guadalajara.
Chris Meyer: Being better connected to our industry through MPI has allowed our agency leaders and experience to have greater impact today and to help shape the future.
Hélène Moberg: It is not so much about benefitting Encore as much as it’s about creating a strong partnership between our two organizations.
How does having your company represented on the board of directors/council benefit MPI?
Dolores Castillo: Far from being an internationally recognized brand such as Marriott, I myself we will always try to find different ways to support the industry through MPI.
Chris Meyer: Sharing insights, trends, recommendations and our work with MPI will continue to support the evolution of MPI and hopefully lead to attracting a more diverse membership in the form of DEIB as well as diversity of skills/focus. Creative is one community that we would like to see be more attracted to MPI to bring more diverse and creative thinking to the association.
Hélène Moberg: Encore is a strong supporter of MPI globally. Within Canada, we have strong connections on a national level and represent Canada from coast to coast.
How has your board of directors/council involvement benefited you on a personal level?
Dolores Castillo: As mentioned before, it has given me not only great friends and industry partners, but it also keeps my personal brand current and involved in many activates related to our industry.
Chris Meyer: Building trusted relationships with other industry leaders and visionaries has benefited both our agency and me personally.
Hélène Moberg: I have been involved with MPI Foundation Canada for nearly 10 years, and throughout those years, I’ve made lifelong friendships with industry colleagues. It has been so rewarding to be a part of supporting our industry with scholarships and grants, especially during this pandemic.
What advice would you give someone else who might be considering volunteer leadership for an association?
Dolores Castillo: it is a great honor and also a great opportunity to participate in all industry-related events and being able to give back and make it a better and stronger industry.
Chris Meyer: Ensure that you are committed, you will make the time, you know what you want to get out and give to the community and plan to make a positive impact.
Hélène Moberg: Volunteering within our industry is one of the most rewarding aspects of being part of our global community. I would highly recommend getting involved whether at a chapter or national level.
