DANCING WITH THE EEAA YOUNG STARS AT THIRD ANNIVERSARY DINNER

By Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia, 14 August, 2015

MEDIA RELEASE

DANCING WITH THE EEAA YOUNG STARS

AT THIRD ANNIVERSARY DINNER

The EEAA Young Stars showed up in record numbers to hear from industry great, John Trevillian, and inspiring young woman, Melissa Eustace, at a special Young Stars & Leaders Table at Luna Park to celebrate three years of the EEAA Young Stars Program.

In his first public appearance since his departure from the Department of Premier and Cabinet, John encouraged the EEAA Young Stars to be honest, do what they love, surround themselves with inspiring people and back themselves.

“I learnt early on that being around people always boosts me. Work with people you trust, with people who inspire you and do things you are passionate about.” Mr Trevillian said.

“This industry offers us many challenges and these are really opportunities to excel. Always take ownership of your wins and your mistakes – who are you, not to be brilliant?”

John brought with him special guest Melissa (Mel) Eustace, an ambassador for the campaign Don't DIS my ABILITY, which celebrates the diversity and ability of people with disability. John shares a special mentoring relationship with Mel.

The effusive Mel had all the EEAA Young Stars on their feet, learning her special inspirational dance “Climb”.

Living with Down’s Syndrome has not stopped Mel from achieving her goals. She is a dancer with the Special Olympics Dance Performance Group, a winning a bronze medallist in Softball at the 2011 Special Olympics World Games in Athens, and she was able to finally beat her 60 minute barrier in the 1.5km Rock to Rock Ocean Swim, which she completed with John.

Next week she will be travelling to the US as a guest of TV personality, Ellen DeGeneres.

Mel shared her story and inspired the Young Stars to make a difference wherever they go and in whatever they do. Her powerful message was to set goals and work to achieve them.

“We love being successful and it takes a lot of training to succeed,” Miss Eustace said.

“I always say… let me win, but if I can't win, let me be brave in the attempt. You should all remember this.”

Ms DiMascio said the Leaders Table with John and Mel has given the EEAA Young Stars access to two very accomplished leaders. Their messages were compelling and great life lessons on what it takes to plan, manage and deliver major national public events, as well as set life and career goals to aspire to.

“We were honoured to have this privilege to hear from both John and Mel. It truly was a special night and an ideal way to celebrate the program’s third anniversary.”

Ms DiMascio said the Association had to double the traditional size of the event to cater for demand. She said this was a testament, not only John, but also to the value of the Young Stars Program.

“It is fantastic to see how far the EEAA Young Stars Program has come in three years and we look forward to a strong future for the program.”

This news follows EEAA’s announcement that Ungerboeck Software International partnered with the Association as the inaugural Gold Partner for the Program.

For more information on the EEAA Young Stars Program visit http://www.eeaa.com.au/young_stars.php

ENDS/

Source: Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia