TOFINO – The recent BC Chamber Executives Conference and Annual General Meeting in West Kelowna (Sept. 9-12th) was a valuable opportunity to reenergize after the summer and learn from fellow Chamber managers and speakers.
The Chamber network is a supportive one—we rely on the expertise and work of our colleagues, which benefits newer managers greatly. This knowledge sharing benefits our own Chambers, and by extension our members.
This year’s BCCE Conference theme was “Fresh Thinking – Expedited Change”. The focus was on bringing fresh energy to the Chamber model as we continue to evolve as organizations. Sessions included looking at the challenges of change (many of which can be found within ourselves), evolving the Chamber model, and the role of the Chamber in economic development. These presentations asked the questions of who do Chambers of Commerce serve, and what those people really need from us.
As managers, we know the varied nature of the tasks the Chamber performs, especially in smaller communities like Tofino, but are our members aware? And how can we engage them so we are continuous providing what’s needed?
Not only did we hear from our fellow managers, but this year’s conference team called on the leaders of other membership-based organizations, including the Canada West Ski Association, the Vancouver Regional Construction Association, The Vancouver Board of Trade, the Forum for Women Entrepreneurs, and Today’s BC Liberals.
Karen Beaubier and her team at the Greater Westside Board of Trade were exceptional hosts in West Kelowna, showcasing the local organic Rollingdale Winery as part of a gourmet barbecue event, and The Cove Lakeside Resort for a gala awards evening. My thanks extend as well to the conference and AGM volunteer organizational team for providing such a valuable learning and networking experience.
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Here in Tofino, we are gearing up for a fall full of Chamber events. We have already had the opportunity to experience our welcome back after summer Members Boat Cruise aboard the Leviathan II from Jamie’s Whaling Station. General Manager Corene Inouye and her crew were gracious hosts and we are grateful for Jamie’s sponsorship again this year of this favourite event.
Several members provided complimentary appetizers for the event, including Picnic Charcuterie, Red Can Gourmet, Rhino Coffee House and Sea Shanty Restaurant. We are grateful for your sponsorship!
Congratulations to the Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce for winning their bid to host the 2016 Tourism Vancouver Island conference and AGM! Sally Mole, her team and the community of Ucluelet will undoubtedly provided an unforgettable event.
– Jen Dart is Executive Director of the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at jendart@tofinochamber.org.
