The first topic discussed with WISE Connect was “Self Care Isn’t Selfish – Putting YOU First.” A total of 21 people participated in this inaugural event scheduled in three separate time slots. “It’s always both nerve-wracking and exciting to launch a new program, and to my delight, the inaugural WISE Connect Online event turned out to be a smashing success!” states Kara Miencier, WISE Events Committee Chair. “Both the small group format and video feature really helped facilitate open discussion and allowed for true connection. There were so many great ideas shared on how to start taking care of “you” first and making sure to put some time on the calendar and commit to it. One of my biggest takeaways was realizing a lot of us are experiencing the same feelings. Through WISE Connect we are all able to connect on those feelings and grow from it. I am excited to continue pushing this program forward and allowing more opportunities for the WISE community to connect!
Sheala Tierney, Catania Oils
WISE is a great organization to be a part of and anyone in the industry is likely to benefit from participating in the webinars and presentations that they put on. Recently I joined a ZOOM call that the WISE events committee hosted called “Self Care Isn’t Selfish- Putting YOU First.” This was a great way to connect with other people from the industry and to learn more about how other people are coping during the Pandemic. It was a very relaxed environment. They kept the group small making it very personal which also helped to avoid people talking over one another. Being able to see everyone as they spoke makes a big difference and the video call in my opinion was far more efficient than conference calls that are done over the phone where you aren’t able to see anyone. It was also more successful than a traditional webinar that are typically more of a lecture format so I am very happy with the events WISE is putting on. I look forward to participating in more of them as we move forward in our “new normal.”
Vicki Smith, Treehouse Foods
Even though logically I know I’m not alone with coping during these times, sharing experiences with others was a tremendous boost for me. Participating over video provided great conversations. Some of my takeaways were discussing how to balance work & family, blocking calendars for self-care, and coordinating exercise routines with others over Zoom. I look forward to the next event to connect with our WISE community!
Lindsay Penberthy, Paramount Roasters
I thoroughly enjoyed the WISE Connect event! It was wonderful to see some familiar faces, as well as new ones, especially during these unprecedented times. It was refreshing to get a new take from others as to how they are improving their self care, and I personally felt revitalized and ready to start some new practices! I look forward to the next event!