Young professional to grow in mentoring program

Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism’s Deanne Baker hopes to grow her tourism industry knowledge via QTIC’s 2024 Young Professionals Mentoring program.

MBRIT’s Event Coordinator has been selected for the program, where she has been paired with an experienced industry professional to share goals, aspirations and experiences, from March through to September.

“I’ve been paired with an experienced industry professional who’s in the events and tourism industry, because that’s more specific to me,” Deanne says.

“(The program) offers the next generation of tourism professionals the opportunity to develop both personally and professionally under the guidance of industry leaders.”

Since Joining MBRIT two years ago, Deanne has gained great exposure and knowledge of the tourism industry, and she hopes these next steps will elevate her experience.

“Working at MBRIT has increased my interest in the industry and especially with how important my role as an event coordinator is to the industry,” she says.

“I personally believe there is great value in meeting and speaking with other people inside and outside the industry.

“I thought it would be a cool opportunity to learn more about opportunities, progressions and just the industry as a whole, and then bring back events-specific tourism knowledge to my team.

“I hope this experience offers me an insight into the industry and helps me to build connections with other industry leaders who can assist me professionally.”

After being selected for the program, Deanne was also invited to be an Assistant Judge at QTIC’s prestigious 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards.

“I have been invited to assist, so I’d work with a judging panel to write feedback, collate information and read the awards submissions,” Deanne explains.

“It’s an administrative assistant role to the judges, who are long-time industry professionals. It will be an incredible opportunity that I’m so excited to be part of.”

Deanne will be assisting the judges throughout the year, with the awards officially being held in November at The Star Brisbane.

When asked what advice she would give to aspiring mentees, Deanne says: “I believe that any and all experiences can be beneficial to your personal and professional development, and opportunities become available when you take any step – small or large – it’s just about taking them...

“If you’re willing to be proactive, then it’s a great opportunity.”