Since 2013, Faces of Fusion has recognized younger leaders in the Saint John community. This year, they recognized younger leaders in the following categories; Business & Entrepreneurship, Intrapreneurship, Community Builder, and Arts and Culture. J.D. Irving, Limited was a sponsor and presenter of the Intrapreneurship Award for the event held at the Trade and Convention Centre in Saint John.

Julia Deep, Marketing Coordinator, presented at the event on behalf of the company.  "JDI is so pleased to support the great work of Fusion with this award, recognizing these heroes behind the scenes who make such a powerful difference - to the community and businesses."

"Having JDI's support is really important to us. Our alignment with the organization helps us to fund big events like this, and hold our events throughout the year. This connects and engages our young professionals, which makes Saint John the premiere place to live, work and play!" said Anthony Enman, Director of Sponsorship, Fusion Saint John.

Elizabeth Gibson, HR Business Partner at Irving Paper was recently nominated for a 2019 Faces of Fusion Award for her work with the YMCA Youth Council. 

Gibson is being recognized for her efforts as a Community Builder. In the fall of 2017, Gibson along with Nicole Vair helped to form the YMCA of Greater Saint John Youth Council. The council  is comprised of 9 members who are all young professionals within the Saint John community.

"The purpose of the Council is to serve as a forum for open dialogue between the YMCA of Greater Saint John and members of the youth population within Saint John and the surrounding area," said Gibson. They strategical work with key stakeholders within the city, focusing attention to youth (ages 20-35) retention.   

"From a young age I was always taught to be a contributing member of society and the YMCA Youth Council is an opportunity to do that. The direction which the Council has is something I truly believe in. It has provided me the opportunity to give back to a city I love. Saint John is a small city that is often seen as the underdog of the Atlantic provinces, however I see it as powerful city with so much to give," said Gibson.

On August 4, 2019 members of the Council will be attending a four-day global YMCA conference in London, England, representing not only the YMCA of Saint John but Saint John as a whole. Young leaders, drawn from more than 100 countries, from around the world will join together to help in shape a positive and sustainable future. Brittany McGraw, HR Business Partner with RST, will be joining Gibson. Throughout the last few years McGraw has been a key member in building and growing the Council. 

"It has been a privilege to be a part of the YMCA Youth Council. I have always been an advocate for this city and being able to work with a team of like-minded individuals who share a passion for Saint John and are committed to finding ways to attract and retain youth is exciting. I look forward to seeing what this year brings for our team, and the impact we will make on youth in the city," said McGraw.

Thank you to the award winners, and nominees, including JDI employees Elizabeth Gibson and Brittany McGraw.