Heba exemplifies PMI-SAC values through her professionalism, collaboration, and commitment to service. She has been instrumental in coordinating sponsor engagement efforts, supporting event marketing activities, and ensuring alignment between sponsorship deliverables and chapter objectives. Her ability to balance strategic oversight with hands-on support has contributed directly to stronger sponsor relationships and increased visibility for PMI-SAC initiatives.
1. What inspired you to start volunteering with PMI-SAC?
I was inspired to start volunteering with PMI-SAC after attending PDC and being genuinely impressed by how successful and well-run it was. You could see the level of planning, care, and dedication the volunteers put in, and I left really wanting to be part of that impact. I actually applied to be a casual event volunteer, but through the conversation they felt my skills were a better fit for the Director of Marketing and Sponsorship role, which made me even more excited to contribute in a meaningful, strategic way.
2. What’s something most people don’t know about your role at PMI-SAC?
Most people don’t see how much behind-the-scenes strategy and collaboration is involved in crafting packages that provide real, tangible value to our sponsors, not just logos on a slide.
3. How does volunteering at PMI-SAC connect to or enhance your professional life?
Volunteering with PMI-SAC gives me a space to apply my project management skills in a different context. I’m working with a diverse team, and thinking about sponsorship from a chapter-wide perspective, which directly strengthens the way I approach my professional work. It also keeps me closely connected to the project management community in Calgary, which means I’m constantly exposed to new ideas, tools, and ways of working that I can bring back into my day-to-day role.
4. What do you enjoy most about being part of the volunteer community?
What I enjoy most is the sense of purpose and camaraderie in the volunteer community. Everyone is here because they care about the profession and want to give back, which creates a very collaborative and supportive environment. This role has given me a real appreciation for how much PMI-SAC values its volunteers’ strengths and helps them grow.
5. For someone thinking, “I’d love to volunteer, but I’m not sure where to start,” what
would you say to encourage them to take that first step with PMI-SAC?
I’d tell them that you don’t need to have the perfect role in mind before you reach out. My own journey started with a simple interest in helping at events, and through a conversation, the chapter helped match my experience to a role where I could add the most value. Start by having that first discussion, being honest about your interests, strengths, and availability, and let the team help you find a good fit. There are opportunities to contribute at all levels—from one-off events to strategic roles—and you might discover, like I did, that you’re capable of much more than you initially had in mind.
