Moy Wong-Tam
Degree: Master in Environmental StudiesGraduated: 1983
Current Position: Executive Director, Centre for Information & Community Services
Current Career: As Executive Director of a charitable organization, I am responsible for the overall operation of the agency and report to a volunteer board of directors. My duties include program development and management, financial and asset management, human resource management as well as community relations.
Why I think I'm living a great life: I am doing what I find rewarding and that is building communities. We can see tangible results of our work as an organization, as well as being able to impart useful information to the immigrant communities that we serve, through media as well as one-on-one work.
How I got here: My first job after graduation was Director of Seniors Services at a community-based organization, since my focus was gerontology. Then I worked for the United Way of Greater Toronto as an Allocation Associate. Then I became Executive Director of an immigrant settlement organization in Ottawa. There were several career choices along the way.
What I did when I felt unsure/lost about my career direction: I did management consulting during a time when I wanted to reflect on my career.
Thing that made the biggest difference: Believing in what I do. I have always loved my work.
How I'm using my degree in my career: I believe that I gained a grounding in managing human service organizations while doing my graduate studies.
What I've learned: You need to find your own niche — something you enjoy doing and excel in.
