Coaching Corner: 2018 MPI Ottawa Prix Prestige Student of the Year and Rising Star Recipients

The Student Liaison Subcommittee, who are the ones who contribute to the Coaching Corner articles, are very proud of two of its members who were the recipients of the Student of the Year award and the Rising Star award. The Prix Prestige Awards Gala is an amazing event to highlight and recognize MPI Ottawa members on their hard-work, dedication and commitment to the chapter. Congratulations again to all the nominees and recipients.

Student of the Year:

Kalli Foster
Gabrielle Whittaker

Rising Star:

Erin Bellwood, Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG)
Patti Johnson, Chic & Swell
Briana Lavoy, Canadian College of Health Leaders

We were able to catch up with Gabrielle and Erin to ask them a few questions about their involvement with MPI. Take a look!

Student of the Year – Gabrielle Whittaker

Congratulations on receiving the Student of the Year award! How did it feel when you found out you were the recipient?

I am very happy to have been awarded Student of the Year. I felt like a black sheep having attended Humber College instead of Algonquin, so it was quite touching to be recognized for my contributions since being back in Ottawa. As a student it can be tough to balance school, work, volunteering, internships, finding a full-time job, sleep, and a social life, so it is very nice to be recognized for my hard work.

What made you decide you wanted to become a meeting planner?

I first discovered my love for events in high school when I was the producer for a school play. My teacher at the time pointed me in the direction of event management and I haven’t looked back since! Through volunteering, internships, and now in my current jobs, my passion continues to strengthen. I look forward to continuing to build and grow my career within the industry for many years to come.

What are your plans/goals for your future involvement in the chapter?

I currently volunteer on the Student Liaison Subcommittee and the Member Events Committee. I also assist with the DIY’s. I plan on continuing to be on these committees and perhaps joining the Prix Prestige Committee if there is room. One day I would love to be on the board and who knows, maybe even president!

Do you have any words of encouragement for current or graduating students who are looking to join MPI Ottawa?

DO IT!!! The benefits to being an MPI member and joining as a student are endless. MPI is an amazing community of friendly and welcoming industry professionals. As a student, one of the biggest incentives to join is the cost savings. A student membership is $40.00 a year versus a planner membership is $359.00 (USD!). So why not try it out as a student? You’ll get to see if it is right for you, without having to invest too much financially. If you decide to continue your membership, MPI has a student in transition program where the cost of your membership goes up in increments year to year rather than all at once. I am actually in the process of writing an article for the Coaching Corner about the benefits of joining MPI, so stay tuned for that coming out this summer!

Rising Star – Erin Bellwood

Congratulations on receiving the Rising Star award! How did it feel when you found out you were the recipient?

I was shocked, I did not expect it. I am very grateful to the people who nominated me and value the work that I do.

When accepting your award you said you are lucky to have amazing mentors who have provided you with guidance and support. What is some of the best advice they have given you?

Keep pushing through, life will knock you down a couple of pegs, but with hard work and determination you will find the way. Keep up with your passion and willingness to learn. Taking some steps back to go forward is never a bad thing. You never know what opportunities will pop up because of it.

What are some achievements you hope to accomplish in your professional career?

To get my CMP and to be an industry leader mentoring others within the industry.

Do you have any advice for young professionals who are looking to get more involved in MPI Ottawa?

Join! Take the chance. I was not sure at first if I wanted to be a part of another association. I did not have a good experience with the other, so I was unsure of joining MPI out of school. I took the leap and it has honestly been the best thing I could have done. I have met so many wonderful people and continue to grow professionally.

If you have any questions about this article, student membership or have topics you would like to see in future “Coaching Corner” articles, please don’t hesitate to send a message to students@mpiottawa.ca.

   Article compiled by Meg LaPlante, Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Article edited by Rozanne Lyons, CMP, Intertask Conferences