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TAVA Member Spotlight


Name: Saskia Rinkoff

Organization: Harbourfront Centre

Role: Manager, Volunteer Resources

Working in the Volunteer Engagement Sector for: 10+ years

TAVA member since: 2014. However, I haven't always been able to take advantage of everything that TAVA has to offer. My new year’s resolution is to do better and attend as many meetings and workshops as possible.

"My advice would be to self-reflect, identify where your knowledge gaps are, and tackle them using different approaches"

As someone working in Volunteer Engagement, how does TAVA help you?

It is always informative and inspiring to hear fellow Volunteer Engagement Professionals talk about their experiences in the sector and how they tackle challenges. For instance, it is interesting to me to learn more about how volunteer screening and onboarding processes in the Social Services or Health Sector operate, because they may differ from the arts world, yet offer transferable ideas.

We are looking forward to learning from your session at the #TAVAMISSIONPOSSIBLE conference! What are you most excited about for this event?

I look forward to reconnecting with colleagues I haven’t seen in a while, and the chance to expand my horizons and network.

At the Conference, you will present "How to Reinvigorate a Legacy Team". How are you preparing for this speaking opportunity?

Once a first outline of the PowerPoint presentation has been drafted, my family has the great pleasure - or not - to act as a first test audience and provide me with valuable feedback. They may have to sit through multiple sessions before I move on and present a revised copy to colleagues at work. It is my experience that the more familiar I am with the content, the easier it gets to present.

What advice would you give to someone looking to take the next step in their Volunteer Engagement career?

My advice would be to self-reflect, identify where your knowledge gaps are, and tackle them using different approaches:
  • Ask fellow colleagues in the field for advice
  • Take advantage of the resources at hand
  • Do research and read as much as possible on the topic
  • Attend a workshop and/or conference

When you're not working or volunteering with the conference committee, how do you like to spend your time?

In my spare time, I enjoy the outdoors, cooking for friends and family, attending diverse cultural events in the city, playing the piano and reading.


Published: January 2019

Thank you  for choosing to be a TAVA member. We love to learn, connect and share with you. We hope your TAVA membership adds value to your daily work and life!  - TAVA Executive Committee

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