Published by Leonardo Calcagno
Can you tell us about you and your work? (short resumé)
I started my career as a social worker in youth protection in 2000. During my 10 years in the field, I complete a Master’s in Social Work focusing on Arts Education for Youth with criminal records. I began teaching in the social service department at Dawson College in 2010-11 Academic Year. In 2017 I was part of a trio of individuals who helped organize Entrepreneurship Week and this year I took the project on solo. From 2012 -2016 I went back to school to complete an MBA at the John Molson School of Business. With my MBA education, I became a consultant for Peak Performance 2 – where I offer training and development workshops to help teams and individuals become more efficient. We focus on improved communications internally and externally.
The 7th edition of Eweek at Dawson College is happening right now. Can you give tell us about the event and what’s the idea behind it?
Entrepreneurship Week is a global movement that happens in over 70 countries across the globe. Dawson College has been the Montreal go-to place for EWEEK activities for the past 6 years and this year is no different. We have over 20 panelists and keynote speakers talking about wide variety topics and industries – including “How to design your lifestyle”; A panel of women entrepreneurs who left the corporate world; and someone from the cannabis industry. The calendar can be found at www.dawsoncollege.qc.ca/eweek-calendar
What advice do you have for other startups and young entrepreneurs?
One of my takeaways from this year’s event is to not wait until you are ‘ready’ – go for it right away! The best way to know if you have it or not is to try it out.
Second would be is that you should not be afraid to fail…from failure come growth
Build a network around you – either to help you get started or to simply give advice –get out there and meet people – regardless of industry, you will share the passion.
What inspires you and motivates you to go to work every day?
As an educator, it is the knowledge that on any given day I can share with my students and that they can use in the future for their careers. I have a vast background that I can share with them.
How important is an event like Semaine Mondiale de l’Entrepreneuriat for Montréal?
I think this week is extremely important for the city of Montreal because it helps both young and old alike to learn and grow in their endeavors. The vast array of speakers appeal to so many people. Entrepreneurship is not necessarily taught but it can be fostered through conversation and encouragement from experienced entrepreneurs – our Speed Date event is the perfect opportunity for mentorship in 5 minutes or less.