The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. I took this step when I decided to be a part of the YCDI team and my journey has been nothing but great. I was given the opportunity along with Deandrew Moore, to attend the Collision conference in Toronto, Canada. It is the fastest growing tech conference in the world. This trip to Canada, was in fact my first time travelling abroad and also my first time on a plane. Being away from Jamaica and experiencing a different culture was fascinating and really exciting. We tried different food, did a little touring and experienced the cold climate of Canada.
I must say our trip wouldn't have been as great without Jason Scott(big bro) as our chaperone, who ensured we had a good time while guiding us throughout the conference. Keisha Francis(big sis) the Secretary of Micheal Thompson(the deputy Mayor of Toronto) also contributed greatly to our experience as she took care of us throughout the conference and outside as well.
The journey of the conference has been an eye opener, I was able to network with progressive people from a different culture. I was also able to interact with companies that have developed extraordinary technologies and programs. Links were made with different organizations that will benefit both YCDI and myself.
From the sessions I attended, there were two that stood out the most and left an impact. They were "re-imagining your legacy: Transforming the Hilton brand for a new era" and "In defense of the 'Jack of all trades' ". The first, touched on some really salient points that detailed how to stay relevant as customer needs change frequently. The second impacted personally as it was geared towards persons who are interested in many areas, but are often times told to specialize in one.
The highlight of my time in Toronto was when we met the Mayor of Toronto, the Deputy Mayor and the Consul General of Jamaica at City Hall. It was an honour to meet them all.
I must extend great thanks to The Deputy Mayor of Toronto, Michael Thompson for giving us the opportunity to attend the collision conference. He was the person who sponsored the whole collision experience for us.
To Lianne McNaughton(YCDI mommy) for creating the avenue for us to grow and develop.
Leaving Canada I must say I have gotten much better at communication and left with a burning desire to excel in my areas of passion.
Ps. I got a bag from Dell for drawing a member of their team on the cintiq.
