There were almost 100 nominations for the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce's inaugural Top 40 Under 40 award recognition event in October. While nominees came from a variety of educational backgrounds and business sectors, there was one commonality amongst the entire group: all faced challenges of being aspiring young professionals (or students) during tough economic times.
The chamber invites the community to another event on Nov. 29 that will celebrate the achievements of some of the honorees. In addition to a great meal, the Winners' Circle Networking Lunch will feature a panel discussion featuring four of the finalists.
"Given the outstanding list of individuals that we had to choose from, we had a really, really, difficult time selecting just four of the Top 40 Under 40 award recipients for this event," said Dianne Hawkins, chamber president/CEO. "In the end, we selected two men and two women, each representing different sectors of industry, trade, commerce and community spirit in the Comox Valley. Kim Bannerman-Pigott, co-owner of Fox & Bee Studio, is a self-employed freelance writer, author and all all-round creative type. In her role as a senior mortgage consultant, MacKenzie Gartside, Verico Select Mortgages, has insight on home buying and finances. Mike Manara, Mount Washington, has many years experience relating to sports and tourism. And the fourth panelist, Joe Renooy, a chartered accountant and senior business advisor with MNP LLP, has centred his career on all things financial."
In addition to hearing a brief account of how each of the four panelists have triumphed over the challenges faced by aspiring young professionals in today's unpredictable economy, the panel will take questions from attendees.
The Winners' Circle panel moderator and emcee will be Andrew Gower, Wedler Engineering. Gower is a founding member of the Young Professionals Comox Valley and serves on the chamber's board of directors.
Tickets are $27 for chamber members and $32 for non-members. Advance registration is required.
Visit www.comoxvalleychamber.com/news-events or call 250-334-3234.