The joy of volunteering
Volunteering has brought me a lot of joy. I’ve expanded my professional network and made lots of new friends. The friendships made have extended well beyond the committee structure and term. People that have since left remain a part of my network.
It has also helped me learn a great deal that would not necessarily be available to me. I’ve become quite knowledgeable about governance and committee structures, business planning, hosting official events like the AGM, and designing programs for major events such as the flagship conference which attracts over 170 people from the profession. This has happened all while navigating numerous leadership challenges. The hardest aspect of the role has been knowing if it’s enough: Are we visible to the profession? Have we demonstrated value to grow and retain the membership? Are we celebrating our volunteers who give up their time to help others?
The past five years has helped me to stretch. The challenges I describe above are common to business and leadership. These are challenges that most people would not get exposure to day-to-day. Or perhaps not until much later in their career. These challenges are ripe for learning and growth, and not to be dismissed because on face value they seem like hard work or there are not enough perks involved. They are challenges for those interested in growing both personally and professionally.
I wouldn’t hesitate to suggest to anyone looking to develop further to consider a stint on the APMP ANZ Committee. It is a great opportunity and if you get it, you should run hard at it. There are aspects of the roles that are mandated because the Chapter is an incorporated association however, there’s also plenty of opportunity to shape the role to be bigger than what it is. No one has ever stopped me from having a go. Here’s some of the things I’ve done in my time that I’m super proud of:
Conference and Event Lead – Coordinated 2022 flagship conference; and built a community of Asia Pacific networking event coordinators.
Vice Chair – Coordinated 2024 flagship conference; developed the 2025 strategic plan; collaborated on the relaunch of the ANZ value proposition – including refreshed brand and key messages across all core communication channels (and new website).
Chair – Implemented core financial measures – delegations of authority, procurement guidelines, operating budget, and a fund for special initiatives; designed program for 2026 flagship conference; and delivered two Annual General Meetings.
Most of all, I’m proud of the committee. It’s a smart group of professionals with a mutual passion for the profession and helping each other toward a common goal.
Considering that all of this started with a simple suggestion to nominate for a role and ended up as a five-year stint quite frankly staggers me. As I end my time on the committee I reflect fondly on all that I’ve experienced and am truly grateful I followed my nose and applied. It’s been the most rewarding experience, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. Thanks for having me!
Thinking about nominating for a role on the Committee? Apply here.
Written by Tania Field
