President's Message -March 2020

Dear MPI Family,

How are you doing? I really want to know — and we really want you to know that your MPI Orange County Chapter Board of Directors are committed to being here for you today, this week, this month and as long as is needed.

We’re going through some tough times right now: Many of us are worried about our safety, and how we can take care of ourselves and those we love. I strongly believe that we will get through this together, stronger than ever.

• I believe in the power of the human spirit to triumph. Our industry has done it before, and we will do it again TOGETHER. It is important that we focus on what we can control, not on what we cannot.
• For those of us who are furloughed, please take time for self-care. For those of us still in the trenches, we are here for you! Remember to reach out to friends, family and colleagues so we can all support each other.
• There will always be something in life, but in any given moment we have the power to choose how we respond. Rather than living in fear, let's keep our thoughts and feelings as positive as we can to keep our spirits and immune systems high.
• As I reflect, I've been reminded how grateful I am for what I do have. If anyone can get through this, it's meeting & event professionals. We are creative. We are resilient. We make miracles happen, and I'm so proud to be a part of this community!

Something I came across this week that I wanted to share: 

CONVERSATIONS will not be cancelled.
RELATIONSHIPS will not be cancelled.
LOVE will not be cancelled.
SONGS will not be cancelled.
READING will not be cancelled.
SELF-CARE will not be cancelled.
HOPE will not be cancelled.
May we lean into the good stuff that remains.

MPIOC is here to help. If you want to talk, have questions, or need assistance, please reach out at connect@mpioc.com or call me at (949) 212-1518.

Please take care of yourself and your families, my dear MPI family. We got this!

All the best,

Pawntra

Pawntra Shadab, CTA
President, MPI Orange County
VP of Events & Marketing, Elite Productions International
#ConnectMPIOC
#wewillmeetagain