Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Derek MacDonald, the cream of the crop when it comes to Canadian event planners. Using his extensive background and creative savvy Derek started his own events company called ‘Boom Goes The Drum’. Since its inception in 2011, Boom Goes The Drum has been behind some of the coolest events in Calgary including a tribute to local designer Paul Hardy on his 10th anniversary and ‘Twas The Night; a Christmas extravaganza hosted in the CORE with big names, a red carpet, and a night full of Christmas cheer. If you have any aspirations to work in the event industry, read on:
Where did you go to school? What did you take?
I started my Fine Arts Degree at the Alberta College of Art and Design and part way through I decided to spend my tuition money on my first business, which ended up being an education I never could have paid for.
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am an Event Producer, which means I conceptualize and execute live events based on the message my clients want to convey to their audience. The short answer; I create experiences for people to engage with.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I started Boom Goes The Drum in 2011, because I am a serial entrepreneur. Prior to this endeavour I worked for a number of years with a Calgary based agency, e=mc2 events, that produces events across Canada. The inspiration for my career route is that I have always been a sucker for a well-told story. As an Event Producer I get to think up all kinds of ways to captivate people. I love the dynamics behind what’s possible when you bring people together.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part of what I do is that I get to spend a lot of time saying “What if”. And I am incredibly fortunate to collaborate with the most creative minds I have ever met. All of whom are brilliant at taking the “What If” and making it reality. The most challenging part is finding a work/life balance. I tend to get so involved with my projects that I spend a lot my free time absorbed in how best to refine an element, idea, or a spreadsheet.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
Family is so important to me, and recently I went two months without seeing my family who live only 45 minutes away. (Sorry Mom!)
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
The road map for Boom Goes The Drum is to provide production services to an international clientele and broaden the entertainment side of the business. What does that mean? More fashion shows, immersive event experiences, and live entertainment productions are on the horizon! In this journey, I see myself leading a team of brilliant young professionals who are passionate about experience making.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Being a young entrepreneur is a unique challenge in itself that I continuously overcome. Everyday there are a lot of “firsts”, and I need to figure out when, what, where, how, and probably most importantly, why? I always need to check in and make sure what I am doing is aligned with my goals. Fortunately, I have an amazing support network of family and friends that I rely on for objectivity. I am also very curious and love to ask other business owners how they do it. It’s amazing the insight that you get from asking questions.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Success to me is feeling fortunate to get up every morning and being excited to do something that is pretty cool. I was taught that Money = Options and Options = Happiness.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Winning a 2013 International Special Events Society (ISES) Esprit Award in the Bahamas! Being recognized by the events community for your work is a special honour and it was definitely one of the biggest highlights for me of the last year.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Don’t take for granted that you have to do things the way people say that you do.
Don’t be afraid to try things because you think you might fail; failing to try is much worse.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
River Cafe. It’s got it all, great food, service, location – and it is totally romantic in an approachable way.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
On my yoga mat.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
Anywhere new, where my curiosity can be endless.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
She works hard for the Money (not really, but kinda).
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I would probably be doing something very similar but in either Theatre or Film Production.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I support local arts organizations including the Calgary Opera, The Glenbow Museum, and Decidedly Jazz (Dance Studio). I am a big believer in the importance of organizations that contribute to our cultural landscape.
What to you is notable?
A story worth telling.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
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