From Networking to Inspiration: AdClub Student Day Reflections

HLOs:

As students in the Digital Business Management program, we had the privilege of attending the AdClub Student Day, one of Toronto’s most prominent networking events. What began as a day to connect with industry leaders quickly transformed into an experience that redefined our career aspirations, inspiring us to think ambitiously and redefine our career paths.

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Creativity: A Personal and Collaborative Journey

The event opened with a fireside chat led by Sabaa Quao, MBA, Chief Creative and Innovation Officer at Cossette. Sabaa highlighted how creativity is deeply personal, and shaped by our unique perspectives and backgrounds. He stressed that harnessing creative energy requires setting aside time for personal inspiration and blending diverse ideas for innovative solutions. Effective storytelling, strong presentation skills, and strategic decision-making are key to bringing these ideas to life. Sabaa also challenged the misconception that AI could replace human creativity, explaining that while AI replicates patterns, human innovation generates unique, groundbreaking ideas. This intrinsic difference ensures the enduring value of human creativity in an evolving technological landscape.

Growth Mindset: The Foundation for Success

Kaaren Whitney-Vernon, serial entrepreneur and executive producer, followed with a compelling session on cultivating a growth mindset. She encouraged us to approach our careers with intention—focusing on a select few organizations we are truly passionate about, conducting thorough research, and articulating why we are a perfect fit. Kaaren underscored the value of embracing feedback, taking risks, and maintaining a commitment to lifelong learning. Sharing personal insights, she revealed her initial misconception that creativity was confined to artistic skills, later discovering that creativity manifests in diverse and personal ways.

Building Your Brand: Standing Out in a Crowd

The final panel discussion, featuring Ivan Pehar, Audrey Ansah, and Zachary Richman, provided actionable advice on career development. Ivan emphasized the importance of personal branding, noting that employers are just as invested in who you are as they are in your experience. Audrey highlighted the need to build transferable skills, foster meaningful connections, and stay ahead of industry trends. Zachary urged us to pair creativity with responsibility, aiming to innovate while solving real-world challenges.

Key Takeaways:

• Creativity thrives in collaboration and is powered by individuality
• A growth mindset transforms challenges into opportunities
• Personal branding and networking are as crucial as experience
• Protect your energy and let inspiration fuel your creativity

One of the event's highlights was a dynamic two-hour networking session with over twenty-five professionals from diverse sectors, including creative agencies, digital media, marketing, and printing. These interactions went beyond exchanging business cards, offering an opportunity to explore industry trends, career paths, and the skills necessary to excel in today’s rapidly evolving job market.

A Transformative Experience

Leaving the AdClub Student Day, we carried a renewed sense of purpose and confidence. This wasn’t merely a networking event—it was an opportunity to reimagine our potential and arm ourselves with tools for meaningful, impactful careers. For students contemplating attending this event in the future, don’t hesitate—it’s an invaluable experience that will inspire you to step boldly into your career journey.

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