Hello everyone! My name is Janice Chong, I joined CSAE as a membership coordinator recently. I moved to Canada about 6 years ago from Hong Kong and went to Western University for my Bachelor Degree in Management and Organizational Studies.
Why did you initially join CSAE?
I enjoyed helping others, so I have worked and volunteered at different local non-profit organizations. I would like to help more people on a bigger scale, so I joined CSAE because it supports other non-profit organizations.
What has surprised you most about your professional journey so far?
One thing surprised me the most in my career is people are very supportive and helpful. I was very lost and not sure what to do in my future. Then, I started to go to different events and invite people to go to a coffee chat. Many people were willing to share with me their experience and gave me advice. I learned so much and very thankful that the people that I met for the first time gave me such a valuable lesson. It inspires me to do the same thing in the future.
What have you learned from working in the association and not-for-profit industry?
Working in the non-profit industry taught me to be passionate and creative. Passion is very important, it keeps you motivate from working on something that you believed in. Being creative allows you to solve the problem in the organization because most non-profit organizations have limited resources which may require you to think outside the box to solve a problem or complete a task.
What’s one piece of advice you would like to share with others?
Never be afraid to ask for help! There are more people would like to support you than you think.
What is one thing that may surprise people to learn about you?
I don’t give up, no matter how hard it is, I will try to make it work!
What are the three things you could never live without?
- My family – includes my dogs and guinea pigs
- Great food – Who doesn’t like food?
- Youtube – Only entertainment if I have to choose!
