When Samantha Moonsammy and Lisa Larter heard the celebrity would be in town, they knew they had to put something together. Moonsammy, an Ottawa-based event planner, and Larter, a social media and marketing guru, were ecstatic about the idea. But with only a few short weeks to pull it off, they had to work fast. The result was a sparkling affair at the Brookstreet Hotel with a daylong slate of inspirational speakers.
I didn't really know what to expect, but I went with one goal: to spend the day surrounded by inspiring people. When I arrived, the room already had great energy and was full to capacity with 400 people. Sitting down, I noticed a framed quote of Oprah's in front of me: "Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher." Seemed like I was in the right place.
The speakers were riveting - with stories that spanned from hilarious to heartbreaking. They offered very personal advice on how to be your best self and take steps toward new goals - whether it's improving your health, bettering your finances, or finding ways to contribute at home or abroad. Every one, though, had a very clear message of hope and that through hard work and passion all dreams are possible.
It really was the best kind of day - one that ends with a feeling of renewed enthusiasm, having been engaged by both great ideas and great people. And one for which I am very grateful.
