Trina Hendry is PR maven for the LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) whose personal business, ChowBella Culinary Experiences, adopts her love and passion for all things relating to food and helps others explore Toronto’s culinary scene. This University of Western Ontario and Humber College alum dreams big, and is focused on making the career she’s planned a reality. Find out more about this YP in today’s feature.
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
PR girl for LCBO by day, culinary tour guide on the weekend.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I accidentally fell into the world of beverage alcohol, actually. I had been working as the PR director for a Canadian hotel chain prior, and fell in love with the food and beverage industry. When an opening came up at LCBO, I thought it would be the perfect way to immerse myself in all things food and wine-related. It was during my stint at the hotel that I also decided to launch ChowBella Culinary Experiences. What better way to share my passion for travel, food and wine, as well as my love for Toronto, than via culinary walking tours of the city’s amazing neighbourhoods.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Best part is interacting with passionate people and immersing myself in topics related to food. The most challenging part is balancing the need to have a regular paycheck with the desire to go out on my own and build my business.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Running ChowBella full time and travelling to the world’s best culinary destinations.
What does success look like to you?
Success to me is being happy making a living doing what I love. It has never been about money or status for me.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Launching ChowBella. I never thought I’d have the courage to start a small business.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Dream big and stay focused on reaching your goals.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I am a huge animal lover so I support animal charities, including WSPA, the World Society for the Protection of Animals, as well as WWF and various OSPCAs/Humane Societies at times of crisis.
What to you is notable?
Notable is having the courage to stay true to yourself and overcoming the curve balls that life constantly throws your way.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone all the way!