More than a Handshake
A Q&A with Leaders of Tomorrow Mentees.
Written by Patricia Bonghanoy, Leaders of Tomorrow 2025-26 Mentee
Networking within the Leaders of Tomorrow program goes beyond exchanging introductions. Through Board of Trade events, LOT-exclusive programs, and committee collaboration, members connect with industry professionals and fellow students to build a strong and supportive community.
To better understand how networking takes shape across the program, three students from different committees shared their experiences and insights. Their perspectives highlight how networking in LOT is not only about professional growth, but also about building meaningful and lasting relationships.
Q: What is your approach to networking, and what challenges have shaped it?
"I’m not really one to work the room. I’d rather have fewer but deeper conversations with people whose work actually interests me, and then stay connected. I used to feel intimidated talking to more experienced people, but I’ve learned that being genuinely curious works far better than any pitch I could memorize.” - Andrew Huang, Campus Connections
Q: What networking experience has been most meaningful to you, and why?
“Meeting Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO of Vancouver International Airport, at the SFU Annual Address was a key experience. I took the courage to connect with her and book a coffee chat, which led to deeper relationships and opened doors for LOT mentees to collaborate with YVR on future volunteering initiatives and training opportunities.” - Renelyn Macato, Community Outreach
Q: What networking advice would you offer to future LOT members?
“At the beginning, if you feel a bit awkward, my advice is to focus on creating one meaningful connection and following up afterward, rather than trying to meet as many people as possible. As you become more comfortable, you can start aiming to connect with more than one new person at each event.” - Gian Gunawan Putra, Regional and Civic Affairs
Hearing these stories made me realize that this has been my experience in LOT as well. Building connections in the program has never felt forced. As Sam Thiara shared during one of his LOT sessions, he prefers the term “relationship building,” and through LOT, I’ve come to understand why. Through Board of Trade events, committee collaborations, and conversations with mentors and fellow students, I’ve learned that the most meaningful connections come from genuine curiosity, authenticity, and taking the time to get to know others. LOT creates a space where students can build confidence, support one another, and feel part of a community that genuinely wants to see everyone succeed.
Even as the program comes to an end, I’ve realized that the value of LOT extends far beyond a single year. The relationships built here are worth nurturing because every person brings a unique perspective and lesson to share. Looking back, I see my LOT journey as a mosaic of learnings shaped by the people I met along the way. Each conversation, piece of advice, and shared experience has contributed to my growth, and I know those connections will continue to have an impact long after the program ends.
This article is from Mentored to Lead, Connected to Serve, a newsletter created by the 2025-26 Leaders of Tomorrow cohort that highlights the meaningful connections students are building beyond events and meetings. Read the full newsletter for more content.