As a reporter at CTV Toronto, 24-year-old Ashley Rowe tells stories ranging from current affairs to tragedy and hardship, defining success as waking up every morning with genuine excitement about the day ahead. Find out more in today’s YPDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I tell stories. All kinds of stories. Stories about current affairs, inspirational people, tragedy, hardship, local events, and politics.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I grew up listening to my grandfather – a newspaper reporter – tell stories almost every weekend. It taught me how to listen, and heightened my curiosity about, well, a whole lot of things. I have inherited a need to know. Reporting gives me an all-access pass to satisfy this need.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is getting to meet and chat with new people every day. The most challenging part is fitting their story into one minute and thirty seconds.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Tough question. In five years, I’d love to be anchoring. But truly, if I’m still doing what I’m doing as a reporter, scoring under 85 on the golf course, and enjoying good wine and food with good company, I’ll be happy. (For the record… I do not score 85… yet.)
What does success look like to you?
Success is waking up every morning with genuine excitement about the day ahead.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Olympics 2010. I was offered an experience I’ll never forget – to report at the Winter Games for VeriCorder/Fanshawe College/Astral Media. My first ‘real’ gig as a reporter. I got to work alongside some of the broadcasters I deeply admire, and got to see what broadcasting on the big stage is all about.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Be tenacious in your efforts. Don’t be discouraged by obstacles. My good friend once told me, “It’s 10% the situation, 90% your attitude.” That statement has now become my mantra. Attitude is everything.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I get an opportunity to work with great charities and NFP organizations all the time through my job. I’m most touched by those affecting youth. Kids Help Phone is a fantastic organization with a great cause, led by great people. I also support CANFAR and the Kidney Foundation of Canada.
What to you is notable?
Living for the things and people you’re passionate about.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone!