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MPI Toronto Chapter E-Newsletter: October 2020
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There's still time to register for this Saturday's virtual CMP Study Group. We'll be discussing studying best practices and what to expect when preparing and writing the exam. It will include a discussion with current CMPs. Meet others who are preparing for the exam and get your CMP questions answered. Register now!

 

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Were You There?

The MPI Toronto Chapter hosted several virtual events in September: A Professional Development (PD) Workshop on Sept. 15 and the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sept. 24 followed by a Just Networking session. 

The opening remark from our chapter president, Margaret Binns — “Inspire hope” — set the tone for the chapter’s first virtual AGM. At this meeting, we addressed all the volunteers and longtime members for their time and commitment to the MPI Toronto Chapter. A 5-Star Education Award was presented to Jessica Toro from Women's College Hospital for her volunteer contributions, leadership, commitment and dedication. Financial results were reviewed as well as other items on the agenda. Congratulations to all the 5-Star Award winners! 

Following the AGM, members stayed on to attend a Just Networking event where three topics were discussed: 

  • Fall is coming - What strategies do you have planned to have an awesome fall season?  
  • Sustainability post-COVID-19 - How has COVID-19 affected your sustainability program? 
  • Hybrid/virtual events - What works and what doesn’t?  

Key takeaways from these discussions:

1. Fall season

Many members have shifted their focus onto new opportunities, i.e. part-time jobs, back to school and taking charge successfully

2. Sustainability post COVID-19

What does sustainability mean:

  • Reducing carbon footprint on the planet;
  • Financial ability to keep your business going;
  • Quality of life - how to make it a better world for everybody; 
  • Sustainability of our industry; and
  • Learning new skills and adapting.

3. Hybrid /Virtual Events (see below)

We would like to thank our sponsors: Destination Toronto, DE Systems and Ignite. Without you, our events wouldn’t have been a success.

      

The MPI Toronto Virtual Professional Development (PD) session on Sept. 15 was all about hybrid events and key tips on success. Hybrid has become our “new normal.” Creating valuable and memorable experiences is always top of mind, and this session highlighted the important elements to keep in mind as we become champions in the hybrid environment.

Encore Canada, with special appearances by Madeleine Bart, Brian Johnston and Krista Cameron, presented essential advice for planning hybrid events. Here are a few highlights.

  1. Hybrid events require both a live event team and an additional virtual team. These teams should be in place from planning to execution.
  2. Onboard your speakers – before rehearsal. Be sure they are familiar with the setup, both live and virtually, and comfortable with the technology.
  3. Rehearse! Rehearse! Rehearse! This is key for in-person and virtual speakers. And this includes the talent and the technical crew. Schedule separate rehearsals where appropriate. 

Our experienced panelists (Chimah Ekeanyanwu; Malak Sidky, MHSC, DES, HMCC; and Depannita Biswas, VEMM) followed by highlighting the importance of engagement. Connecting with our audience, whether live or virtual, is vital. This is more challenging on the virtual side. Our colleagues shared some awesome ideas.

  • Use of a moderator
  • Include music and insert polls, Q&A or chat and surveys
  • Gamification and prizes 

We would like to thank our sponsors for supporting this PD session: 

Niagara Falls Business Events      Ignite

 

The PD Committee would also like to thank Encore Canada for their valuable contribution to the session. We look forward to seeing you on Nov. 19 for our next PD session.

 

The October Monthly Moments Challenge is here! October is known as the month of being thankful, and with that said, we challenge you to share your thankful moments with us! Share a photo, video or leave a comment, making sure to use the hashtag #MPITOMMTHANKS and tag @MPITORONTO

We at #MPITO are truly thankful for all our members each and every day!

MPI is pleased to offer discounts for those who want to become a member or renew your membership during the month of October:

  • $125 off a new premier or preferred membership
  • $75 off a renewal

Please use this special code for your discount - RecoverWithMPI 

If you or someone you know would like to write for our magazine or blog, please fill out our contributor form

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MPI offers many learning opportunities. Register for October’s clockable course, free for members: Wednesday, Oct. 21 - #RealTalk: Jump Start your Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Strategy

Visit https://academy.mpiweb.org for more course options or to register

Rejigging Your Career: How to Revamp Your CV and LinkedIn Profile
*Bonus session: How to Interview Virtually*
Nov. 19, 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. ET
Details coming soon

Our next New Members Mixer and Orientation will be held Dec. 8. The Membership Committee has great ideas in making this an interactive event for new members. Stay tuned for more details and look out for registration.