Members of the Chamber’s young professional group asked the business community to support the Emerging Leaders by sharing their expertise and knowledge, during a panel discussion at this morning’s Business Insight Breakfast.
Emerging Leaders chairman Chris Pellegrini gave an overview of the Chamber’s newest initiative, and asked the audience to help them meet their mission and vision.
Pellegrini urged the Chamber members in the room to recall the early days of their careers and the mentors they may have had. Approach the Emerging Leaders with that same willingness to share and to educate that they were shown, he asked.
“Help guide us, help guide the next generation by sharing your story with those eager to listen. Help us find our paths by sharing yours,” Pellegrini urged. “We would love for you to attend our events, interact with our members, and share your wealth of experiences. Please remember, words have incredible power. Your experiences, successes, and failures can paint a picture and shine a light for the new generation finding their way.”
Pellegrini thanked M&T Bank, the Platinum Partner of Emerging Leaders, and asked other business leaders to consider sponsoring programs and events.
Following Pellegrini’s presentation, several Emerging Leaders participated in a panel discussion with Chamber president and CEO Karen Andreas.
Kelsie Thomson, employee experience specialist at Windover Construction; Josh Wally Addie, vice president at M&T Bank, and Christina Saade, director of marketing at EJ Callahan and Associates, joined Pellegrini to answer questions about the Emerging Leaders, but also addressed the perceptions surrounding millennials and Gen Z.
There’s a misconception that this generation doesn’t work hard, Saade noted, but in actuality, young professionals just strive to have a better work-life balance than prior generations.
During the wide-ranging discussion, panelists touched on a variety of topics, including how they balance a hybrid work schedule and ways to draw employees back into the office. They also shared thoughts on how employers can build a culture where employees find value and success.
While the group is geared towards professionals in their 20s and 30s, Pellegrini said their main focus is to provide value to a member, and offer them a chance to build their skills and make connections.
The forum was sponsored by Windover Construction and Streamography.