Amy Conrad
Events Manager
As the Event's Manager I handle the planning, logistics and execution of both internal and external events at Volta. From an early age I developed a passion for all that is event planning, as well as an appreciation for the positive impact that each event can have for its guests. I am a graduate of the Tourism Management program at the Nova Scotia Community College Lunenburg Campus, and have organized events and meetings in a managerial role since 2010 at hotels, restaurants and event venues.
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What are you most proud of professionally? And who or why?
I am most proud of the fact that everyday I go to work I am contributing to the growth and success of the Atlantic Canadian startup ecosystem. I am truly inspired by the people in the ecosystem and the innovative businesses that are being created here.
What’s your vision for Atlantic Canada in 10 years? What’s our biggest opportunity now?
The startup ecosystem in Atlantic Canada is such a wonderful, diverse and collaborative space to be in. Now is the time to engage with existing and budding entrepreneurs to inspire them to come to or stay in Atlantic Canada to grow their businesses.
One way I aim to encourage budding entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada to learn and grow their skills here, is by taking the lead on a youth program for teens, ages 12-19, who have an interest in technology and entrepreneurship. This program, Hoist, connects industry experts with the teens through a monthly workshop. Our youth are the builders of our future economy, and we need to engage with them at an early age to ignite the flame of future entrepreneurship to become future founders or startup employees. The future I see for Atlantic Canada is one of prosperity, growth and one that fosters creativity.
What was your greatest stage of growth? What made it a shift for you?
One of my greatest stages of growth happened in November 2018. At the time, I made the decision to leave the food and beverage industry – an industry I had truly grown to love for more than 10 years – and jump in with both feet to a full-time events career. At the time, it felt quite scary and overwhelming, because more often than not we become too comfortable in the roles/industries that we are in. I took the time to realize my transferable skills, and find ways to apply them to something new that would help me reach my personal goals. I was truly fortunate to be able to apply my skill set and experiences, in my current role as an Events Manager, all while fulfilling my desire for professional growth with an organization that creates a sense of community and actively gives back.
What’s your favourite or most read book or podcast? Now or at each of your greatest stages of growth?
I am a huge lover of reading and get way too excited at times when I get to settle in with a new book. One of my personal favourites is Michelle Obama’s book, Becoming. In Becoming Michelle bares true honesty about the struggles many women have with finding balance as a mother and partner, while continuing to achieve personal successes. I found myself captivated by this book; it taught me that it is OK to share the disappointments along with the triumphs at every stage of life, and that each career success is about growing and serves as a stepping stone for the next. Michelle Obama really is an inspiring woman.
What’s your deepest learning from this past year? How did/will you apply it?
From 2020 into 2021, I have learned to look for new ways to approach situations or problems, and to not be constrained by what would have been my standard approach. When COVID-19 struck, it was unnerving at best for someone in the events industry. It presented me with the opportunity to pivot and re-imagine everything I knew. I chose to embrace the tools and technology available to me, to become an expert in virtual event planning and execution. This has proven to be a fun and exciting journey that allows me to reach broader audiences, as it breaks down traditional attendance or participatory barriers, such as travel or associated costs, that had previously been an issue. Also, on a personal note, this last year has taught me the importance of appreciating the relationships you have with others and the importance of checking in on others’ well-being. This pandemic has impacted people in unimaginable ways, so we should all continue to take a few minutes out of our days to check on one another - you never know what someone may be going through.
Who’s inspired you, directly or indirectly? How have they inspired you?
My mother and father have always been an incredible inspiration to me. From a young age, they instilled the importance of giving back to the community and working hard to achieve your dreams. As entrepreneurs themselves, it has come full circle for me to now have the opportunity to work with some of Nova Scotia’s best startup entrepreneurs everyday.
What would you have done differently?
I wish I had learned much earlier in my career that it is OK to ask for help when needed, and also, that it is absolutely OK to say, ‘No.’ There used to be days where I felt hardwired to think that I had to do everything regardless of how overextended I was. Saying ‘no,’ or telling someone how I was feeling, felt like a sign of weakness – which is entirely not the case. Delegation and transparency are so key to keeping yourself happy and balanced.
What are the principles you live by?
Positive Attitude - We have the choice to make the most of our day. Although hard at times, I choose to maintain a positive attitude and outlook on life, because it not only influences how you show up, but it also helps our relationships.
Give Back - I am a volunteer, and believe that giving back is so important if you are able to do so. It is amazing the impact that something as simple as your time or skills can mean to those in need, and how it can strengthen your community.
Be Kind to Others - In today’s society, we are often so quick to judge others. I choose to always treat others with respect and kindness, as you never know what someone is going through, and how much a smile or a few words can truly mean to someone.
Stay True to Yourself - Recognize where you come from, who you are, where you’re going and what you stand for. No instance is worth sacrificing your character.
How have you recovered from fractured professional relationships? What uncomfortable truths have you learned about yourself in those experiences?
There is always a certain level of disappointment when this happens, and a moment of reflection where I ask myself, “what could I have done differently?” I try to spin these moments into an opportunity to focus on ways I can continue to learn and grow. Going through these experiences has allowed me to identify the importance of transparency, sharing common goals, showing empathy, and knowing when it is best to part ways.
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Planner, Support Local Advocate, Foodie, Volunteer, Traveller, Dreamer, Photography Enthusiast