As we stand on the cusp of a new year, it is with great pride and excitement that I reflect on the remarkable achievements of the past months. From the resounding success of the return of the in-person conference to the unveiling of our new website and the revamped Introduction to Construction Principles course, the OPBA Board has been dedicated to advancing our organization’s mission.
These milestones represent not only the hard work and dedication of the Board but also the collective efforts of our dynamic membership. Your engagement and support have played an instrumental role in making these initiatives a reality.
The coming year promises to be a canvas of new possibilities, and I am confident that with our shared commitment and dedication, we will continue to achieve remarkable milestones.
Some things to look forward to for 2024:
- Creation of the Judy Wilson Emerging Leader Award in honor of the late Judy Wilson, a respected figure in public procurement, known for her captivating storytelling skills and popularity as a speaker at OPBA conferences.
- Pilot initiative to change the timing of the Caveat Cup Golf Tournament, separating it from the conference to enhance participation. Led by Jazz Thandi, details to be provided in the upcoming year.
- Transitioning professional development activities throughout the year to the Learning Management System (LMS) for improved service to public procurement professionals. The objective is to offer more meaningful learning opportunities with increased engagement.
- Revival of the Buyer’s Meetings, providing a platform for new professionals to network, share experiences, and foster growth within the community.
Embracing a spirit of collaboration and shared goals, I encourage every member to play an active role in shaping the future of our organization. We’ve recently established various working groups, such as Membership, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and Professional Development. If you’re interested in joining and contributing, there are a few spots available. Feel free to reach out to our Executive Director at rozalyn@opba.ca
Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy New Year filled with prosperity, good health, and boundless opportunities.
Warm regards,
Victoria Mirlocca, Chair Ontario Public Buyers Association