September 2024 - Ginny Izydore

Ginny Izydore Director of Leadership Development MPI Georgia Event Concept Design

*What inspired you to get involved with MPI Georgia, and what has your journey on the Board been like so far? I joined MPI Georgia originally back in the early ‘90’s as I moved into group sales and marketing to launch Blackberry Farm. It’s been a consistent source of education, networking and leadership development over the years and as my career have developed. I have served on the board three different times during three different decades!

*How has your experience with MPI Georgia influenced your professional growth and perspective on the meeting and events industry? My consistent involvement with MPI Georgia has provided me with job opportunities that I would not have found as well as continued education to keep me on the forefront of our industry.

*What has been the most rewarding aspect of your role as a Board member, and how has it impacted your approach to leadership? I guess I could answer this three times, as each term of my service I have had fantastic and rewarding experiences! But the evolution and combination of my years of service has been invaluable. Most rewarding to me from each board group has been the forever friendships and business partnerships that have resulted from serving together.

*What do you see as the biggest opportunity or priority for MPI Georgia in the coming year? As our industry evolves and becomes more technologically advanced, I would like to be sure that MPI Georgia continues to prioritize the personal touches and importance of being together. I have been thrilled with our growth of the Mentorship Program the past couple of years, as it is so important for those newer to our industry learn from experienced members and for those Mentors to feel the importance of sharing their knowledge to grow the industry.

*Which MPI Georgia event are you most proud to have been a part of, and why? So many! But I think I would say co-chairing the Tech Summit for two years and winning a Phoenix Award for doing so was very rewarding! It challenged me in many ways, and I loved the teamwork and the amazing summits that we created – we need to bring those back again!

*What advice would you give to new members or those considering taking on a leadership role within MPI Georgia? My advice is to just do it and get involved! Those who have known me for a long time or who have worked with me know that I am not just a joiner. When I decide to join an organization, I am always quick to hop on a committee or step up to a leadership or board role. I think this is so important to get the most out of your membership and to truly get engaged and accountable. And, if you have been a member for a long time, still stay involved (hence the three-time board service!) We have many choices of industry groups to consider, so if you are going to spend money and time to join, be sure to get involved quickly. The ROI both personally and professionally is invaluable!