BoardShift is thrilled to be celebrating Cecilia Omole in our July Candidate Spotlight. Cecilia generously shared her time with us to discuss how the program played a key role in her recent appointment to the board of directors of Toronto Dance Theater (TDT). She is hopeful her success encourages other BoardShift participants to apply to governance positions they are passionate about.
CA: How did you learn about the BoardShift program and what made you sign up?
CO: I was already familiar with CivicAction, so when the BoardShift program was announced, I immediately signed up for the mailing list. The program popped up at the perfect time as I had previously been exploring ways to gain leadership experience through volunteering and stretch projects at work. When BoardShift launched I signed up right away as it seemed like the logical next step for me since I was already thinking about possibly wanting to sit on a board but wasn’t at the point of actively looking and applying.
CA: I’m so glad the timing worked well for you. Previously to joining BoardShift was there anything holding you back from applying to governance roles?
CO: I think I was a bit intimidated by the board appointment process. This is where the BoardShift curriculum played an integral role; the courses take a deep and comprehensive dive into the roles and responsibilities of board members, as well as the intricacies of what happens during a board meeting. This knowledge made the idea of joining a board seem possible and like there was a space for me at these tables.
CA: That’s lovely! You mentioned enjoying the curriculum, are there any other aspects of the program that you enjoyed?
CO: Honestly, all of it! I had a lot of fun throughout the program. The BoardShift Mixer in February was great because I got the chance to speak with other candidates and representatives from some of the participating organizations. It was the perfect introduction to networking for governance roles. I also participated in the Mock Board Meeting in May which was great because it truly felt like a real board meeting and included a pre-read board package and a great simulation. It helped bring the theory that I had learned in the curriculum to life.
CA: I’m now curious to know what drew you to the Toronto Dance Theater specifically.
CO: I’m a very analytical person by nature and have a formal background in economics, public policy, and risk management. In my day job my work is focused on analytical topics, but I’ve also always appreciated the arts and was looking for more ways to weave the creativity that the art world brings into my life. In my board position at the TDT, I’ll be able to blend my analytical strengths with my passion for the arts.
CA: That sounds like the perfect fit. I am so happy for you. Do you think you would have applied to this position had you not joined BoardShift?
CO: I’m not too sure I would have come across the posting on my own. Seeing TDT on the matching platform helped me see my path from student to applicant to board member more clearly. And of course, the courses provided me with the knowledge to put together a strong application with a clear letter of intent.
CA: Congratulations again on your appointment! Before we wrap up, do you have any advice for other BoardShift Candidates?
CO: I would encourage them to attend the events because they are fun and will expose you to the BoardShift community. I would also suggest keeping an open mind and staying curious. Both the program and your future board role are excellent learning opportunities.