Seeing the BJC through the lens of a friend was all it took to convince me to join. Hearing about the breadth of events and seeing the friendships nurtured there extend and flourish outside the BJC events was so refreshing. You hear ‘professional networking organisation’ and instantly you might think ‘stuffy’… I did. The BJC is anything but.
When I first joined the BJC I dived straight in and took a role on the Council of Management. That year was such a highlight for me, not only because it was my first year as a member but because it felt like getting an ‘access all areas’ pass! As the Chair of Marketing, Social & PR at the time, I saw my role as an opportunity to promote every event and cheerlead the people that make them all happen. So much effort goes in behind the scenes to ensure the organisation keeps up with the needs of its members. Being on the CofM was a thrill and a privilege.
The BJC has Saved. My. Bacon! I was made redundant from my previous role very suddenly earlier this year which prompted me to take the plunge into the world of freelance. The connections and friendships I’d formed here really pulled through when I needed them most; either words of encouragement, emotional support or giving me actual work. It truly is a great collective and the camaraderie feels far beyond any other professional networking organisation.
Favourite event? Hmm, that’s a tough call… I love hearing from different voices and perspectives of people from across the city at the monthly meetings, but I think the Annual Dinner juuuust pips them to the post. It’s not often we get the opportunity to get into our glad rags – especially being from the creative industry (my work and home wardrobe is one and the same!) – coming together to celebrate that presidential year and the awesome events we’ve experienced in an incredible venue with good food, good wine and a mix of members and guests. It’s a stand out event for me.
If you’re already thinking about it, stop thinking and just do it. Zero regrets.
The event schedule really does cater to every personality. Prefer smaller, intimate settings? Try the book club, or a workshop. Love the outdoors? There’s the walking club and events like the Balloon Fiesta Night Glow. Want to expand your professional skillset? Join the CofM. Like to give back to the community? Get crafty with Christmas decoration making for Marmalade Trust, or take part in the charity Dragon Boat race. Fancy yourself a bit of a mover? Summer party, Christmas party and Annual dinner always have ample dancefloors.
I loved to see the CofM evolve with the needs of our young professionals and introduce the role of the Chair of DE&I into the fold. It showed a real commitment to the membership and ensures that the organisation is considering inclusivity and diversity with every event.
IMO, BJC might as well stand for Big Joyous Community. It’s networking on the most human level. As Member I’ve been able to create and foster a network of genuine friendships that have shown up professionally when I’ve needed support. And as a Chair on CofM I had the chance to find and grow my professional voice, flex my leadership muscle and share accomplishments with such an encouraging team. It’s given me personal and professional growth in equal measure and that’s what makes it such an easy decision to keep coming back.
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