Shannon DeSouza, MBET, 30, works in Vancouver, British Columbia, as director of sales and industry relations at Attendease. As a 2017 40 Under 40 honoree, DeSouza discusses her passion for the events industry.
*Connect with DeSouza on Twitter.
What I do: I get to educate the industry about event technology through presenting at conferences all over the world, and showcase how event profs can simplify event management by utilizing the Attendease event automation platform.
How I got here: It was kismet! I started in this industry as a social events entrepreneur 10 years ago as a side hustle, all while keeping my day job working for some of the largest tech firms in the world. About four years ago, I was looking for my next challenge when I stumbled upon an event app company. I knew event tech was where I was supposed to be—it combines my passions for events and technology.
My greatest career accomplishment: To date, my greatest achievement is completing my masters in business, entrepreneurship and technology from University of Waterloo in 2010. I rely on this education daily to add real business insight and value to the meetings industry.
Improvement I’ve made for clients: My clients rely on me to help craft their technology-implementation strategy or their overall event-tech marketing and promotions strategy: two conversations I get excited about having as they directly relate to the event’s overall metrics.
What I’m working on: I’m part of a new feature release for Attendease coming this spring. Let’s just say the life of an event manager is about to get way better!
What I do outside of work: I am active in both the PCMA and MPI communities. I am past chair of PCMA’s Digital Strategy Committee, and now sit on the board as vice president of communications for the MPI British Columbia Chapter. I also volunteer with the Canadian Cancer Society and am an active mentor for young women in my sorority and spiritual community.
Five phrases that identify me: Entrepreneur; event tech geek; nature lover; wife; friend
