"If your goals do not scare you then they aren't big enough..."

This International Women's Day, Tinique Hay, founder of Hay Events and 2022/23 Fast Forward 15 mentee, tells M&IT what being a black, female event professional means to her...

What does it mean to you to be a woman in this industry?

I am proud to be a black, female event professional within the event industry. For me, it means I will continue to use my voice, passion and persistence to inspire as well as motivate future black event professionals through working together with other women within the industry to make impactful changes.

How can women support women to be the best versions of themselves?

 Through being each other's accountability partners and holding each other accountable towards achieving our goals as well as championing the work that we are doing that is contributing to the event industry.

Being each other’s biggest cheerleaders. Most importantly building a supportive community of industry women who are looking to support, guide and help each up to make 'boss movements' within the industry.

What has been your biggest learning from the FF15 programme?

If your goals do not scare you then they aren't big enough. Go BIGGER but ensure your goals are SMART!

My motto from FF15 is to feel the fear and do it anyway as this is the only way you will be able to step outside of your comfort zone.

Public speaking was not in my comfort zone but a goal of mine is to increase the visibility of my business, Hay Events. I also want to raise my voice within the industry to help inspire and motivate future black event professionals.

I felt the fear and did it anyway. I've spoken twice at major industry events and it is not as scary as you think it would be. So, believe in yourself, take that leap of faith and go for it.

Can you share a powerful piece of advice to inspire our readers on IWD?  

Your secret sauce is you, believe in yourself and don’t put pressure on yourself.

You are doing amazing, keeping going and continuing to walk in your purpose and fit your crown because I need to see it shine brightly.

How can the industry better support women?

By having more industry programmes like FF15, we can support women within their careers as well as with personal and professional development.

What changes would you like to see in the industry?

Diversity in panels at events.

I am helping to make a change by actively putting myself forward for speaking opportunities, promoting myself as a speaker within the industry and leading workshops in partnership with the Unversity of Hertfordshire and a wonderful charity called BluePrint For All.