It's been a couple of weeks now since the ASPECT Conference and I'm still feeling inspired and excited about the future of our sector. I've chosen a few highlights that I want to share.
L
eadership Recognized
Congratulations to Peter Bailey of Free Rein & Associates in Hope forbeing awarded the David Hutson Leadership Award, which is awarded to an individual who demonstrates exemplary leadership in the community-based training sector. Congratulations to the Open Door
Group for being awarded the ASPECT Organization of the Year award celebrates the contribution of one organization which has made a significant contribution to community-based trainers profile and progress in British Columbia. Tom Burnell accepted on behalf of his organization.
Inspiring Speech by BC's Lieutenant Governor
As you likely know, Janet Austin is the former CEO of the YMCA Vancouver and was tapped on the shoulder by the Prime Minister to become BC's Lieutenant Governor. In addition to presenting the awards, she talked about stepping into her new leadership role, adjusting to her new residence, meeting the Queen, and how she is using her position to promote her own social service agenda. During her speech I found myself thinking, "I want to be her." I was inspired!
We're In this Together
At the opening of the conference, ASPECT President John Dawson, presented everyone in the room with a mocktail (instead of a cocktail because it was 8:30 in the morning) to acknowledge the challenging preceding months of what I've been calling "RFP Season." To Pitt Bull's "Celebration" and Pharell's "Happy," we all rocked out together. See video link below
Thank you to all the presenters, exhibitors, and sponsors for helping us present the ASPECT Conference this year. Mark your calendars for next year: November 4 & 5, 2019 at the Sheraton Vancouver Airport.
Janet Morris-Reade
