Get to know Boulder Chamber Ambassador Merix Gustin with Plan Ahead Events!
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
For a special birthday treat one year, my parents took me to the Boulder Dinner Theater, and I fell in love with musicals! Most of my childhood I would have told you I wanted to go into musical theater, and perform on stage.
What do you love most about being an Ambassador?
I feel so lucky to get to work directly with the Chamber leadership, and the whole Ambassador team. Our monthly check-ins are a highlight for me, hearing about all of the incredible things these lovely people are doing in our community, and learning about ways I can support their creative initiatives.
What is one thing many people don't know about you that you would like to share?
I've lived in France and the Czech Republic, and I love to travel internationally! I spent a lot of quarantine time planning trips, and have a list of new destinations to visit.
What is one service or product that your company offers that you want to tell the community about?
Plan Ahead Events has helped a lot of small and medium organizations navigate the challenges of applying (relatively new) technology to create virtual events over the past year. As we head into an uncertain transition back to in-person events, we can also help brainstorm how you could leverage some form of hybrid options to help support that transition. I love talking about event logistics, so feel free to reach out with any questions!
Why did you join the Boulder Chamber?
I joined it because someone recommended it as a good place to grow when I launched my business. I renew every year because of the rich community of people I have become a part of - so many reasons to stay involved!
What is your favorite Boulder Chamber story or experience?
I hate to say that it's a "favorite," but the day of the King Soopers shooting in March, I witnessed the power of the Chamber's community. I received personal calls, texts and emails from the team and other Ambassadors checking on me, and at an event that had been scheduled for the following day, the agenda was completely reset, and we were given an opportunity to process and grieve together. It was a moving demonstration of the compassion, adaptability, and inclusivity embodied by the Boulder Chamber.
How else do you like to stay engaged or advance equity in the local community?
I spend a lot of time advocating on behalf of young adults who have aged out of the foster care system, working with True North Young Adult Services. We provide transitional housing, educational resources, and a supportive community that offers a safe space for anyone in need of support. I am constantly amazed at the circumstances some of our program participants have overcome, and continue to be inspired by their resilience and optimism about the future!
What is one way you can help out another member?
I've been an active member of the Chamber for almost seven years, and am always happy to facilitate an introduction! If there's someone specific you would like to meet, or if you are looking for a referral of something specific, I'll be happy to help connect you.
We love having you on our Ambassador team, Merix!