Dennis Nephin

Dennis Nephin, Events Manager with Wood Buffalo Presents, hails from Toronto but has called Fort McMurray home for the past 10 years.

Having planned many events that have raised more than $400,000 for charities and nonprofits, usually starting with a zero-dollar budget, Dennis has accomplished much as an event organizer. He recently sat down with YMM and talked about his life as one of this year’s Top 50 Under 50.

YMM: What is the most rewarding part of your career?

DN: Bringing people together was instilled in me since I was born. As far back as I remember, our house was always where people gathered, celebrated holidays, shared meals and worked together for a collective good.

For me, events have always been a connection to my past and a platform to create that welcoming atmosphere I was lucky enough to experience growing up. The most rewarding part of my career is taking a thought or an idea and creating something remarkable for everyone to enjoy. Sharing joy and bringing people together through something I have made brings me back to my roots and provides that fulfilling part of my career.

YMM: Tell us about your volunteer experience in the community.

DN: Volunteering in the community has been such a big part of my time in Fort McMurray. Volunteering has been a very positive channel for networking, meeting new people and having the opportunity to give back to the community.

One of my first events in Fort McMurray was planning the victory party for the newly-elected mayor and MLA. This experience showed me how strong of a community we have up here in our corner of the world.

One of my favourite volunteering experiences has always been the Festival of Trees. I think the Festival of Trees is one of the best events in our region, and I love its dedication to including the whole community. This all gets enormously amplified by my excessive love for the Holidays.

On average, I volunteer with over 20 organizations and events throughout the year. I think this has been a significant factor in developing my foundation here in Fort McMurray

YMM: Who is your hero, and why?

DN: Hands down, my mother is my hero. She has been challenged and tested her entire life and never gave up. I look at everything she has been through, and I am just amazed that she is still fighting and has always kept a positive attitude.

Sometimes when things in my life get difficult, I think back to some of the situations that she made it through and know I can get through this. It usually starts with a phone call and a couple of hours later, having the perspective I need to accomplish what I need to do.

I feel very blessed to have my hero be a warrior, caregiver, friend and someone who is always there for me.