Interested in all things social? Whether you’re a professional, newcomer or avid user, Social Media Week is the place to get informed. Vv Magazine’s Ama Scriver, who will be speaking on a panel at the event, gives us the inside scoop.
Social Media Week is returning to Toronto after a three-year hiatus, thanks in large part to Michelle Pinchev – owner and operator of the boutique social media firm, Pinch Social. Taking place from June 6-9th in various locations across the city, the goal of Social Media Week is to showcase the thriving industry Toronto has built for itself while exploring and fostering conversation on the unique challenges people face day-to-day in the realm of social media.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional, newcomer or just plain curious about the social media world – this week provides an opportunity and space for professionals and enthusiasts to come together and connect with others who may be struggling with the same problems or questions. Michelle Pinchev explains, “Social media is a new and often tricky field, with a constantly changing landscape. This event helps those to step away from behind their screens and collaborate more.”
But getting to this point wasn’t easy. While Social Media Week is held in cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York – Michelle discloses that because there was no host organization, the event wasn’t happening in Toronto. That’s when she stepped up to the plate, as an independent consultant, to bring this world class event back. She explains, “It wasn’t easy to get here. Host organizations are typically large, well-established companies but we’ve had incredible partners and a dedicated advisory board that’s helped steer the ship.” It went from being a long shot to becoming a reality and that was all thanks in large part to Toronto’s desire and love for all things social media.
For many browsing through the site, it may be hard to choose what events to attend with panels hosted by Twitter Canada and Buzzfeed Canada and other office tours being provided by Google Canada and 500pxl – there is a lot of knowledge to soak up and places to be. Michelle tells us, “There are a lot of important conversations for agencies, brands, bloggers and end users alike, throughout the week. We’re happy to play a role in changing the conversation.” Also, if that didn’t help make a final decision for you, Toronto’s own #6Dad councillor Norm Kelly chatting in-depth about his own social media presence.
While many around the world use social media to document their experiences and share their lives with strangers, the week hopes to inspire others to do more with their own social media platforms and for brands/agencies to explore what real marketing efforts work. Michelle explains, “I hope everyone who attends gives themselves permission to step outside of their day-to-day roles and think big picture.” It will be great to see what types of conversations and insider knowledge will be shared during this week.
To sign up, you can visit the website here and purchase your own 3-day All Access Pass for $499.00. If you can’t attend, follow along on Twitter all next week with the hashtag #SMWiTO
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Will you check out Social Media Week in Toronto? Let Vv Magazine know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.