In the Spotlight - Amara Heppell

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IAP2 Wild Rose is excited to shine a light on some of the incredible P2 professionals that shape our community of practice in Alberta. Meet Amara Heppell, a volunteer and long-time member of IAP2 Wildrose who has recently achieved her CP3 designation.

What do you value about being a Wild Rose member?

“The people. This chapter is made up of amazing P2 practitioners from across Alberta and being able to connect with colleagues to learn from each other’s expertise is extremely valuable.”

What was your career path to get to your present position?

“In addition to holding my CP3 designation, I am Accredited in Public Relations from the Canadian Public Relations Society. My career began in government communications/PR and this is still a big component of my day-to-day work. As our societies change, it is important for governments and organizations to move from one-way communications, to dialogue where we are truly listening to and responding to the concerns of citizens. This is where professional public participation has a huge opportunity.” 

What do you enjoy most about your work?

“No two days are ever the same! This work is also highly rewarding, as I get to bring people from the community together to solve complex issues, leading to better understanding between groups and continuous learning for me.” 

Why did you decide to apply to become a CP3?

“Professional designations, like CP3, help to elevate the profession. I am honoured to hold the CP3 designation as it shows my commitment to the profession, adherence to IAP2 core values, and my professional desire for continual improvement.” 

Why did you decide to volunteer with Wild Rose?

“For the same reason I value being a member. My volunteer work not only connects me to great colleagues in this province but will hopefully help to create opportunities for others to make those connections in meaningful ways.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in the field of engagement?

“Connect with other professionals through memberships like IAP2. Learning from people in the field is so valuable and luckily through IAP2 there are so many opportunities whether it is at conferences or virtual training events – just keep learning and connecting!”

Our thanks to Amara for sharing her words of wisdom as our first spotlighted IAP2 Wild Rose member! 

If you would like the opportunity to connect with Amara yourself, please consider joining us at the upcoming 2023 Wild Rose Annual General Meeting, to be held this year in Red Deer on May 26.