Let’s Talk Gen-Z: What really matters and why should we care?
It’s no secret that there is a talent crisis in our industry, especially at the entry- to mid-level. Gen-Z is soon to take over the workforce, and organizations have much to gain from their purpose- and impact-driven perspectives.
To improve recruitment and retention of Next-Gen event professionals, we must first understand them. Go straight to the source at a collaborative panel session of emerging industry leaders! Hear from Gen-Z event professionals starting their careers about their experiences breaking into the industry, challenges they face and aspirations to build a better future together.
Believe it or not, there is a lot that aligns cross-generationally when it comes to goals and desires.
“Gen Z workers are expected to more than triple to 87 million people by 2030 in Australia, France, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States, accounting for 30 percent of total employment," according to a study by Oxford Economics.
Start investing in the future of work by investing in Gen-Z talent!
Who should attend?
Managers, Directors, VPs and anyone else in your organization that is hiring and working with talent.
Gen-Z peers or anyone who wants to be part of the conversation!
Moderator
Nikki Gonzales – Chief of Staff, Soundings
Nikki is the Chief of Staff for Soundings, an innovative talent platform connecting event and marketing professionals with companies in search of the most relevant talent for their organization, either freelance or full-time, in the event, hospitality, and non-profit industries.
After graduating with a bachelors degree in Hospitality and Tourism from San Diego State University, Nikki held a number of positions within hotel operations, event strategy, and human resources. Now, she leverages her cross-functional experience and industry expertise to ensure that the Soundings story is shared with both its community members and customers. She also leads all Soundings Thrive community initiatives, including the young professional programs.
Panelists
Nadzeya Melnik – Incentive Manager, United Partners
Nadzeya is a dynamic and ambitious professional with a passion for the meetings and events industry. Currently serving as an Incentive Manager at United Partners, she is responsible for coordinating and executing comprehensive incentive trips for corporate clients. With a portfolio of projects under her belt, she has successfully organized and managed numerous events across Europe, as well as in more exotic destinations.
Alongside her professional engagement, Nadzeya has actively involved in the academic world as a student of Vistula School of Hospitality. Her commitment to learning and growth is further exemplified through her role as the President of the Student Science Club of Business Tourism "2B" for the past 5 years. During this time, she has organized and led several conferences, galas and events. Her leadership abilities have been recognized and acknowledged through her participation in various industry associations, including membership in MPI Poland Chapter and SITE Poland.
Nadzeya has been recognized for her creativity and achievements on an international level as a semi-finalist in the International University Challenge at the Future Leaders Forum in Seville in 2020. Furthermore, her accomplishments have been acknowledged within their academic institution, as they emerged as a finalist in the "Vistula Compasses" competition in the Manager category in 2022.
Nadzeya sees herself as a bridge between students and industry professionals, leveraging her extensive network to support and empower fellow students. Through her contacts and connections, primarily within the student business tourism club "2B" and the SITE Young Leaders program, Nadzeya actively nurtures and guides emerging talent, helping them navigate their own career paths.
Jordan Lacey – Senior Event Associate, J.P. Morgan Chase & Co
Jordan Lacey, CMP has a passion for events and event marketing. Currently, Jordan is a senior event associate at J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. Jordan is a graduate of Johnson and Wales University '16 in Sports, Entertainment, and Event Management. She currently is pursing her MBA at Colorado State University. When not planning corporate events, Jordan is the CEO and founder of Light The Candle, a non profit that bridges her love for events and foster children by creating birthday cards for Foster Children who have not been adopted yet- www.welightthecandle.org
Taylor Kirby – Graduate, Florida State University
Taylor Kirby is a dynamic marketing professional and recent graduate from Florida State University, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing. With a hunger for knowledge and a determined spirit, Taylor has actively engaged in various clubs and organizations within the FSU community, showcasing their passion for personal and professional growth.
During her time at FSU, Taylor demonstrated her exceptional skills as a social media manager, contributing to the success of multiple companies. Her ability to create captivating social media graphics for branding and editorials, coupled with their talent for writing thought-provoking personal pieces, has allowed Taylor to leave a lasting impact on the organizations she has worked with.
Taylor's enthusiasm for learning extends beyond the confines of college, as she actively seeks out new opportunities to gain valuable marketing experiences. Her willingness to welcome feedback and constructive criticism has allowed her to understand different perspectives and continuously improve her work.
Caroline Cole – Account Manager, MAS
Caroline Cole is an Account Manager at MAS, a creatively-led experiential marketing agency. MAS produces events and experiences across the globe for an extensive clientele list including companies such as Google and YouTube. She currently is the “[cowboy] boots on the ground” in Nashville, TN for MAS.
Caroline graduated from Belmont University with degrees in Creative Entertainment Industries and Marketing along with a Certification in Event Planning. In addition to her work at MAS, Caroline currently serves as VP of Communications for MPI Tennessee’s Board of Directors and has been a part of MPI Global’s Emerging Professionals Advisory Council for the past two years. Most recently, she was named a finalist for MPI’s RISE Award for Young Professional Achievement. Having had such phenomenal mentors herself, Caroline is dedicated to providing tools and innovative resources to other young professionals looking to find their footing in the industry. She continues to work with her alma mater and other local universities to develop programming and learning opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in events.