Young professionals network for a cause

Event co-chairs Brian Hefter, left, Lauren Jacob, centre, and Jamie Grundman JEN K HAY PHOTOGRAPHY

TORONTO — There’s no telling to where introductions can lead. 

Providing a professional networking platform and building social exchange, 37 mentors, trendsetters and industry leaders mingled with some 280 young professionals at the fifth annual Israel Cancer Research Fund (ICRF) Revolving Tables event, held Feb. 25 at the Four Seasons Hotel. More than $135,000 was raised for the cause. 

“Mentorship is a two-way street. We are just setting the participants up to make the first move. Having a mentor to guide you along in your career can make all the difference,” said event co-chair Jamie Grundman. 

“One hundred per cent of the funds raised tonight go to every major hospital and scientific research institution in Israel,” said ICRF Toronto president Norman Shiner.

This year, ICRF is marking its 40th year of investing in scientific research in Israel. 

“We have seen incredible advances in cancer research by our scientists, some of whom have received judicious awards, including the Nobel Prize,” said Kyle Lichtman, past Revolving Tables co-chair and an ICRF Toronto board member.

Youthful exuberance, big questions, business cards, and shared industry stories were exchanged in anticipation of sitting down with event mentors over a three-course dinner. 

After each course, participants switched to a new table with a new mentor, asking questions about work/life balance, staying inspired and unlocking one’s potential.

Participant Debra Fabian, a teacher at Associated Hebrew Schools, came to the event with an open mind.

“I like to listen to people’s stories and hear how they got to where they are and learn about their pathways, as a lot of times, those are unconventional. I think it’s inspiring to hear of people who had an idea and who were somehow able to make it happen,” she said.

When asked why the Revolving Tables event is important, Grundman said, “Young professionals are a crucial demographic for charities. These are the donors of tomorrow. Opening them up to the cause of the ICRF, and showing both them and the CEOs in attendance what a big impact a small organization such as the ICRF can have is very important.

“People come to the event because the chance to network with the likes of Heather Reisman [founder, chair  and CEO of Indigo], Jordan Banks [global head of vertical strategy and managing director, Facebook Canada] or Ellis Jacob, [president and CEO, Cineplex Entertainment], is very attractive. But, I also think the event is a testament to the impact a young person can have on an organization. If even one person leaves wanting to involve himself or herself in a charity, it has been a success.” 

Young professionals from last year’s event expressed a deep interest in speaking with other young entrepreneurs with proven business success stories. 

“This year, we were more active in recruiting young entrepreneurs such as Leerom Segal, co-founder and CEO of Klick Health and New York Times best-selling author, and Josh Singer, president of Kognitive Marketing,” said Jacob.

Some of the other moderators and mentors included Joseph Mapa, president and CEO, Mount Sinai Hospital; Elise Kalles, of  Harvey Kalles Real Estate; Ken Tanenbaum, vice-chairman, Kilmer Van Nostrand Co. Ltd.; Gabe Gonda, head of features and weekend, the Globe and Mail; and Natasha Koifman, president, NKPR Inc.

TV personality and fashion writer Jeanne Beker shared her pearls of wisdom with a table of eager young professionals: 

“If you think you have arrived, it’s time to go. You really need to keep on going, and make yourself relevant, and present yourself with new challenges.”

Asked if there was a defining moment in her career where she had to make a choice that led her to her present path, Beker replied, “I think everyday choices come into your life. If you are really out there living a big life, your antennae are out and your mind is open to possibilities, they come fast and furious.”