Coaching Corner - Erin Bellwood

Leading with Purpose: Erin’s Perspective on Events, Impact and Mentorship

For Erin Bellwood, from the start, a career in meeting and event management wasn’t something she planned. It evolved naturally through curiosity and a passion for connection. Beginning in communications and public relations, she was first introduced to the events world while working with MLSE. That experience sparked her interest and led her to pursue formal training through the Algonquin College Event Management Program.

From there, her career grew across a variety of roles, eventually leading her into leadership positions, including her current role as Manager, Events & Conferences at the Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario (POGO). What initially drew her into the industry still resonates today. “I was drawn in early by the energy of live events, the creativity behind building meaningful experiences, and the ever-changing world of events.”

What makes Bellwood’s work especially meaningful is her focus on mission-driven organizations. Throughout her career, she has seen how events can go beyond logistics and serve as powerful tools for connection, advocacy and change. At POGO, that impact is even more significant, supporting children with cancer and their families through purposeful programming. It’s a reminder that events are not just about execution, but about creating experiences that truly matter.

In her role, leadership is about more than just planning, it’s about balance. Bellwood approaches her work by combining empathy with strategy, ensuring that each event aligns with organizational goals while also meeting the needs of attendees. Building strong relationships with stakeholders, volunteers and partners is central to her approach. She also emphasizes the importance of staying calm and clear-headed, especially when unexpected challenges arise.

Over the years, Bellwood has seen the role of event planners evolve significantly. Today, planners are no longer just responsible for logistics, they are strategic advisors. From managing risk and designing hybrid experiences to supporting marketing efforts and aligning with organizational priorities, the role has expanded. Events now require both thoughtful planning and a deeper understanding of overall strategy to ensure they deliver real impact.

Alongside these changes, the industry continues to face challenges. Bellwood highlights ongoing recovery, rising travel costs and shifting global conditions as key pressures affecting attendance and planning. There is also a noticeable shift within the workforce, as experienced professionals leave the industry and newer planners step in. This creates both challenges and opportunities, particularly when it comes to knowledge sharing and mentorship.

Mentorship has played a major role in Bellwood’s own journey. “Mentorship has been foundational for me and I have been lucky to have some exceptional guidance in my career,” she shares. Through support from colleagues, teachers and peers, she was able to grow her confidence and navigate key transitions, including entering new roles during uncertain times. Today, she is passionate about giving back, mentoring students through Algonquin College and helping emerging professionals build their skills and confidence.

She believes that success in today’s industry comes down to a combination of adaptability, strong communication, strategic thinking and relationship-building. However; just as important is how you lead, staying calm, empathetic and solution-focused, even when things don’t go as planned.

For those entering the industry, Bellwood offers simple but valuable advice: stay curious, get involved, and don’t be afraid to learn through experience. “Things will go wrong. What matters is how you stay calm, adapt and problem-solve.”

Looking back, one of the most rewarding moments in her career was navigating event delivery during the pandemic. Stepping into a new role during such an uncertain time and still being able to contribute meaningfully, reinforced her resilience and adaptability. Now, in her role at POGO, she continues to find fulfillment in knowing her work contributes to something bigger.

At the heart of it all, Bellwood’s approach is grounded in purpose. By leading with empathy, building strong relationships and staying adaptable, she continues to create events that not only run smoothly but truly make an impact.

If you’d like to connect with Erin Bellwood to learn more about event strategy, mission-driven event planning, or mentorship in the meetings industry, you can connect with her at ebellwood@pogo.ca or LinkedIn.

 
 Article edited by: Darlene Kelly-Stewart, Stonehouse Sales & Marketing Services