Join us in celebrating the first #CEM from Nigeria! Read about Esther Elendu-Okoye’s #CEM journey and her dedication to manage exhibitions and events confidently on a global standard.
University of Education: Abia State University Uturu Nigeria
How has the CEM designation helped in your career?
Earning the CEM designation has presented me as a professional in my career and it has taken me to another level because the journey to it involves learning which has exposed me to every aspect of the exhibitions and event management process. With the knowledge I have gained through this learning program, I can confidently manage exhibitions or events on a global standard.
Why is it important to maintain the CEM designation?
Maintaining the CEM designation is very important as it involves a learning program that keeps one current and updated about the happenings in the industry as change is constant and in the process you are increasing your network.
What made you want to obtain your CEM designation?
I needed to know everything about exhibition and event management, belong to the industry’s association and at the same time be a professional with a globally recognized certificate in the industry.
What advice would you give to an aspiring individual who wants to apply for the CEM program?
Do not delay!!! Go for it because it worth more than anything you will spend on and you will e-meet other colleagues in the industry from different part of the world to learn from.
How did you start your career in this industry?
After my university education I was hired in the exhibitions industry in 2007. My major role then was to take and deliver exhibition booth furnishing orders.
How have you made a difference with your show or with working with a client by applying the knowledge you gained by obtaining your CEM designation?
With the knowledge I’ve gained through this program, I have been able to function well in every department of my team. Before, my function was limited because I knew nothing or less about other departments. Now i can advice on sales; floor plan development; operations; marketing; strategic planning and development; finance, budgeting and contracts; security, risk and crisis management; and facility & site selection to mention a few.
What was it that you did or implemented right after obtaining your CEM?
I joyfully added CEM to my name on my LinkedIn profile and email signature as instructed by the CEM designation letter.
What did you like most about the CEM Learning Program?
The course workbooks are filled with great content, educating, simple and easy to read and understand. The options of online and in-person learning make individual participation compulsory as we learn from each other. The instructors are great and the Elevate platform is simple to navigate and use.
Fun fact about you – What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I love travelling and I can dance.
