Presented by the Israeli Cancer Research Fund (ICRF) Next Generation, Revolving Tables is a social and networking event for a cause, where some of Toronto’s most ambitious young professionals can get up close and personal with some of Canada’s most recognized and respected leaders. At the 3rd Annual Revolving Tables event, you can have dinner with some of the country’s most accomplished and influential CEOs, executives and community leaders… and help find a cure for cancer in the process. It is a truly unique charity event designed specifically for young professionals where you get so much more out of it than a few drinks and some foggy memories. Held on Thursday, February 7th, at The Bram & Bluma Appel Salon, the event promises to offer an evening of great food, professional growth and social exchange. Think corporate speed dating, as over 250 young professionals unite to network and raise awareness and funds for ICRF.
Revolving Tables was designed to encourage interaction among like-minded professionals, with guests matched with a different executive (depending on given industry) at each course. Throughout the cocktails and three-course meal, participants will have the opportunity to meet other young professionals and engage with renowned CEOs and executives from a variety of industries. Each table the guests sit at will be a new experience and an exclusive opportunity to interact with professional mentors, trendsetters, and industry leaders.
Guests include 30 notable and seasoned professionals like Paul Beeston, President, Toronto Blue Jays; Michael Bryant, Politician and former Attorney General of Ontario; Peter Freed, President, Freed Developments; Paul Godfrey, President & CEO, Postmedia Network Inc; Michele Maheux, Executive Director & COO, TIFF; Mark McEwan, Chef, The McEwan Group (Bymark, North 44); Dr. Marla Shapiro, Doctor, Author, Medical Expert, CTV; and John Tory, businessman, activist, former leader of the PC Party of Ontario, former MPP and broadcaster… among others!
We spoke with Kyle Lichtman, a Toronto-based young professional who has been the chair for all three years.
How did the idea for Revolving Tables originate?
The idea was brought forward by one of our first committee members and has taken shape through the collaboration of the co-chairs (past and present) and the entire respective committee.
The initiative has involved the participation of some pretty heavy-hitting seasoned professionals. How did you initially go about outreach?
We were very ambitious from the start and had the big picture in mind. We believed in the cause and that is what powered our drive. We try to appeal to the charitable side and the goodwill of these influential leaders, and it has been surprisingly easy. We have had a great response. Leaders are eager to pass along their knowledge, especially for such a great cause. They are happy to lend their time, share their stories and mentor over a great meal. Some even stay around to mix and mingle with the young professionals once the meal is done.
Why is Revolving Tables so popular with young professionals?
There is a lot of value in it for young people. We get that charity event tickets can be costly, but with Revolving Tables, guests get out of it what they invest; there is a lot of value that comes with the event and the ticket. Guests also get to mix and mingle with each other afterward, hopefully leaving with a handful of new business cards and making a significant dent in their own. We have received so much great feedback on the success of the event, and YPs have shared stories of either remaining in contact with some of the leaders or of valuable connections made with other YPs.
What can we expect that is different at this year’s event?
The raffle is more experiential in terms of prizing. This year, prizes involve things like spending time with top CEOs in the form of events and packages. For example, you could win coffee with Michele Maheux (Executive Director & COO, TIFF) along with tickets to a film at the TIFF Lightbox. With that said, we also have tangible prizes like a 55” LG TV.
Act quickly; the last day to purchase tickets is THIS FRIDAY, February 1st. Bring you’re A-game, dress to impress (think “business formal”) and, whatever you do, don’t forget those business cards!
Click here for more information.