WFIM is entirely organized and run by its volunteers, from the Chair of the Board to the Event Set-Up Team. We couldn’t put on WOW events for our members without them!
Opportunities to volunteer can take any shape or form. Volunteers are needed on the day of the event to set-up, take-down, sell raffle tickets, etc. Longer term commitments can include working on a committee such as Golf, or assisting with Sponsorship or Marketing. Positions on the Board of Directors are filled by past volunteers, who have shown their commitment to WFIM.

Become a WFIM Volunteer today! Contact our Director of Volunteers at admin@wfim.ca
Reasons to Volunteer:
It is a great way to learn new skills and meet wonderful women. ~WFIM volunteer
It is good to see an event be appreciated by the members and when you help another member it is very rewarding. ~ WFIM volunteer
It is a great way to learn new skills and make great life long friends! ~ WFIM volunteer
Always fun and challenging to be a part of this team. ~ WFIM volunteer
Volunteering is good for your mental and physical health. Meeting people and learning can do wonders for you.
Volunteering can help you get a foot in the door at a place where you would like to work
Volunteer experience looks great on your resume.
HOW MY FIRST VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE WITH WFIM, EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS & UNLOCKED NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
Written by Sine Yildirimli
As a new graduate, I am driven by a passion to shape my future through building communities, fostering meaningful connections, and creating spaces where we can grow and thrive together. Joining community organizations and nurturing relationships has always been my priority, and being part of WFIM (Women in Food Industry Management) has been an incredibly enriching and life-changing experience.
My journey with WFIM began in 2019, before COVID-19, when I was introduced to the organization by Hamid Alee and attended the 2019 gala dinner as a guest. As a newcomer to Canada, it was an excellent opportunity to expand my network and connect with professionals in the food industry. At this event, I met Mariana, whose kindness and encouragement sparked my admiration for WFIM.
A few months ago, I received an email from WFIM about the 2024 annual gala dinner, an event I had been looking forward to attending. Shortly after, I discovered the Donna Messer Scholarship and eagerly applied. While waiting for the scholarship results, I realized the gala tickets were sold out. I did not want this opportunity to slip away, so I reached out to Mariana for advice. She graciously invited me to volunteer at the event, and I immediately said yes. I was thrilled by the chance to contribute and be part of something so meaningful.

Sine and Errol at the 2024 WFIM Holiday Gala
Traveling from Toronto to Brampton for the event was challenging. I missed two buses while figuring out the routes and ultimately had to take an Uber. Despite the hurdles, I knew this moment was worth every effort, and I could not let myself or others down by being late.
When I arrived, I was greeted warmly by Brenda, Barbara, Limor, and Mariana. Their kindness and enthusiasm instantly made me feel at home. Although I did not know what tasks awaited me as a volunteer, I was ready to help with anything. Shortly after, Brenda asked me to deliver the safety announcement and land acknowledgment, an unexpected but exciting opportunity.
With little time to prepare, I quickly crafted a text, rehearsed it, and delivered it confidently in front of 320 attendees. This experience reminded me of the importance of seizing opportunities and learning through action. Brenda’s trust in me gave me the courage to step out of my comfort zone.
My interest in being part of WFIM began back in 2019, and I had a strong desire to do more. That initial impression has only grown over the years, and now here I am, speaking in front of 320 people. I would have missed out on this unique experience if I had just purchased a ticket. It truly felt like I had been working with WFIM for years, as everyone welcomed me with familiarity as if we had known each other for a long time.
The gala was a celebration of connection, generosity, and shared passion. I assisted with photographing raffle winners, capturing moments that exemplified the joy of the evening. During the raffle announcement, I met Errol, and we discovered we shared a similar cultural background. Our instant connection highlighted the magic of networking in such vibrant spaces. It was a connection that I would not have made if I had not volunteered. I got opportunities I was not expecting simply because I was so eager to contribute.
The dinner was a culinary delight, with each course reflecting the event’s meticulous planning. Sitting alongside inspiring women like Lesley and Mary Ann added another richness to the experience. We shared stories, ideas, and dreams, forming connections that went beyond the event.
While having my dinner, Brenda announced the mentorship program within WFIM, and I immediately knew I wanted to be part of it. As a young professional, I am keen to receive guidance to advance my career. This program presents a fantastic opportunity to learn from experienced professionals who are willing to share their expertise. It aligns perfectly with my desire to expand my network and gain valuable insights. I am excited to explore this opportunity and apply for the 2025 cohort.
We also had the privilege of hearing from Deb Craven, the President of Longo’s, who shared her inspiring journey. Her story was truly motivating, and I felt incredibly grateful to be there, learning from someone with such immense experience and leadership. This experience, along with the announcement of WFIM’s mentorship program, further fueled my desire to grow and connect within this remarkable community.
This was the largest event in WFIM’s history, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been a part of it as a volunteer. Working alongside these remarkable women has contributed greatly to my personal growth, helping me develop essential soft skills such as writing, public speaking, organization, communication, and human relations. This experience has deepened my desire to engage with and contribute to this community. As I continue to refine my skills in this environment, I am not only helping others but also helping myself. I have created this opportunity through my willingness to ask, share, and take chances.
Volunteering provided me with more than I could have imagined. It equipped me with valuable skills in public speaking, communication, and organization while also deepening my connections to this incredible community. Despite not winning the Donna Messer Scholarship, being a runner-up and participating in this event made me feel like a winner.
WFIM has given me so much more than an opportunity; it has given me a community, a platform to grow, and the inspiration to give back. I look forward to contributing to future events and continuing this incredible journey.