Our careers are constantly shaped and reshaped by the people we surround ourselves with. The saying “it’s all about who you know” has never been truer in today’s ever connected world.
Career advice is always valuable. Whether you’re looking for your first job after graduation or you’ve been in your career for many years, career influencers are one of the most underrated resources for your professional success.
So, whether you’re new to the concept of career influencers or you’re looking to add a few more to your roster, these three Ottawa-based career influencers have a little something for everyone.
Michaela Alexis – How to follow your passion
The former President of Grade A Digital; a company created by using the power of LinkedIn, Michaela Alexis is the millennial I wish all generations knew. She is down to earth, hilarious and relatable.
Not only is she the friend you wish you had, she is a testament to the power of influencers; having reached out to her own career influencer when she was laid off from her job just before her 30th birthday. Not only did he reply to her, but he sent her a box filled with books to help get her started.
Today Michaela is a keynote speaker, an author and a LinkedIn master.
Why Michaela influences me?
Having been laid off at a job I worked at for almost 5 years, Michaela’s story was one I recognized. Her tenacity and ability to turn a terrible situation into one that propelled her to the success she has now is an incredible story (and one I hope many can learn from).
Nathalie V Martin – How to build a community
Nathalie V Martin is a social entrepreneur and philanthropist. She speaks openly and honestly about entrepreneurship and work-life balance.
As the President of the Ottawa branch of FemCity, Nathalie connects women in Ottawa to share their successes and to empower one another to reach their dreams, regardless of their background and networks. In just three months, she was able to recruit over 500 members when she launched FemCity in March of 2017!
Today Nathalie spends her time volunteering, traveling and building connections with incredible women.
Why Nathalie influences me?
Nathalie is who I hope I can be someday. She volunteers her time to causes which are important to her, has a wonderful family and has created a community of amazing women. She is open and honest about the struggles of entrepreneurship and of “having it all” and reminds me that life is too short to sweat the little things.
Komal Minhas – How to create a movement
If you’ve heard of the film Dream, Girl, you’ve heard of Komal Minhas (and for those of you who haven’t – you need to check it out ASAP!). In 2016, the film was screened at the Obama White House and Komal and her co-founder, Erin Bagwell, were named to Oprah Winfrey’s SuperSoul 100 list.
After being diagnosed with cancer (and beating it!) and then a neurological illness, Komal left the home she made in New York City and moved back to Ottawa with her then fiancé (now husband). This move back home, which could have killed her entrepreneurial spirit, helped her to take back control of her health and life – re-building one she is happy to show up for every day.
Today Komal runs her two companies, KoMedia and Komal Minhas Inc., invests in startups and media productions, and travels the world speaking to others about how to reach their purpose and find fulfillment in their lives.
Why Komal influences me?
As an Indo-Canadian woman, having a role model like Komal is inspiring. As a fellow Carleton University alumnae (graduating the same year), I was able to be a bystander to the incredible achievements she has had. Her drive and determination to help others reach their full potential is nothing short of amazing.
