Working in communications and telling tales
Emily is a storyteller at heart. Born and raised in southwestern Ontario, she credits her drive and excitement for life to her parents. Emily recently completed her Master of Media in Journalism and Communications and is excited to help change the world one word at a time.
If you could give your past self some advice, what would you tell yourself?
Just breathe. I know it sounds cliche, but so much of your time is spent worrying about what’s next and how you’re going to get there. It’s all going to be okay. I never believed people when they told me life goes by fast, but it does. So, take time to enjoy the moments, sit in the warm feelings of nostalgia and happiness, and don’t rush. Just breathe.
What or who has been your greatest influence in business?
I was blessed to be surrounded by a team of strong, influential women when I began my career. They are all unapologetically themselves and are steadfast in their work to make our community a better place. I see parts of all of them in the woman I am today, personally, but especially professionally. It makes me feel stronger as I move forward in my career.
Where do you see yourself in five years? How do you envision your future?
I used to be the type to always have a five-year plan—but five years ago, I never would have envisioned the life I have right now! In five years, I hope to be teaching in some capacity and sharing my passion for communications and writing with people who love it just as much as I do. When I envision my future, I hope to be doing things that fill me with joy.
What is your number one priority when it comes to your career and daily work?
My number one priority for my career and daily work is always to make a difference in my community—wherever that is. I’m a big believer that you give little pieces of yourself to your community in the same way your community makes up pieces of you. Being intentional with this in a way that helps people feel safe, heard, and appreciated. It is what gets me out of bed in the morning.
What keeps you motivated on a daily basis? My family! I owe almost all of myself to my family and their constant support and encouragement of following my dreams. Nothing was ever too much. As I get older, I realize more and more what it meant for them to put their wants and needs aside so easily to ensure that I was able to pursue mine. I work to make them proud everyday.
Connect with Emily:
Twitter: emilymackeyy Instagram: emily mackey (@emmackey__)
