What current social issue is most relevant or of concern to your chapter or destination and why?
One of the current social issues facing the state of Florida as a whole is human trafficking. The state has been a hot spot for human trafficking for years that many have never noticed or thought of. Our area has created campaigns to raise awareness to the cause to fight against it.
Another key concern is inclusion. Our chapter feels that inclusion is an important part of our mission. We want to make all guests and members feel welcomed and included at all of our events. For MPI Tampa Bay Area this expands past just religion, sexuality, and ethnicity. We want all guests & members to feel valued and appreciated whether from outside the Tampa area, a planner or supplier, self-employed or a large business. The diversity of MPI is what makes this association such an incredible experience to be a part of.
“[Florida] has been a hot spot for human trafficking for years that many have never noticed or thought of. Our area has created campaigns to raise awareness to the cause to fight against it.”
Is your chapter actively involved in helping to solve or bring awareness to this issue or activism in general?
For the important focus of human trafficking, we are educating our members on what to look for and the correct actions to take to report it. During our latest "Sunshine Education Summit," we had a breakout session on the topic that was highly rated. We will be continuing to include important information in our upcoming programs as we are working with community leaders to activate and engage before upcoming major events, like WrestleMania coming to Tampa this spring and the Super Bowl in 2021.
Are there any misconceptions about Tampa Bay that you'd like to clear up?
The Tampa Bay area is truly diverse; world-class beaches are located just over the bridge in Pinellas, Bradenton, and Sarasota counties. Incredible art & culture can be found throughout the Bay Area, and of course we are the thrill ride capital of Florida. Also our food and craft beverage scene is pretty amazing and growing. Actually it’s so good that our CVB Visit Tampa Bay has made a cookbook and cocktail book cataloging all the amazing finds.
What is the biggest trend you are seeing or expecting this year?
Sustainability, plant-based food trends, thinking outside the ballroom, wellness and creating experiences.
What event or project organized by your chapter are you most looking forward to and why?
Two of my favorite events we offer are coming up this spring. First is our annual "Yappy Hour" benefiting the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. Last year we raised over $3,000 for the organization and 2 puppies found their FUR-Ever homes. Our other event is "Meetings Academy," our day-long conference, which is our chapter’s celebration for Global Meetings Industry Day. This year’s theme is “The Future is U, Investing in Yourself” and it will take place at the beautiful Marriott Water Street located in downtown Tampa on April 28th.
This year our community service project during Meetings Academy will be the "Sunshine Corgi Rescue." This was a passion project of one of our long-time dedicated volunteers Cyndi Cavanaugh, who passed away this summer in an accident. We thought it was such a perfect way to honor her, and I am truly looking forward to a spring filled with puppy kisses.
