Unlocking Opportunities: The Power of ICON 2024 for Young Professionals
Do you want to experience the most transformative experience of your young professional life? Then you need to prioritize attending ICON!
Why ICON?
Attending ICON 2024 was a pivotal experience for members of my Chapter and I, the David A. Ward Chapter at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. Being the only PRSSA Chapter in the state of Hawai’i, we’re over 2,000 miles from our nearest peer Chapter, which presents unique challenges.
One of the most difficult challenges to combat is the limited networking opportunities with students and PR professionals outside of the islands. This is why ICON is such an integral part of our Chapter – ICON provides a bridge to the national PRSSA network. More specifically, ICON provides fresh perspectives that enhance student skills and opens up new doors for collaboration and growth. This is what makes my experience at ICON all the more fruitful.
I’m incredibly grateful to have received the PRSA Foundation Travel Grant, which allowed me to take this journey that strengthened not only my technical skills but also my connection with the national PRSSA network. Conferences like these are important for members to capitalize on and use the resources given to them.
It was inspiring to meet PR students from diverse backgrounds who are working towards similar professional aspirations. Attending ICON helped us realize that we’re part of a larger community of PR students, each supporting one another’s journeys.
ICON 2024 Highlights
One of the highlights of the Conference iwas the impressive lineup of sessions that cater to the needs and interests of emerging PR professionals. Sessions are offered three to four at a time, which gave attendees a variety of options. It was difficult to choose between the different sessions, as each one is packed with amazing speakers, valuable insights and incredible lessons. The session that stood out to me the most was “Conquering Your Fears: Overcoming Blind Spots as Emerging PR Professionals,” presented by Jarno Oostingh, the senior director of social & PR at Nebo. Nebo is a human-centered PR agency that emphasizes authentic, meaningful connections in its approach to public relations, which aligns with my values as an aspiring PR professional. Nebo was also one of the sponsors for ICON 2024, which goes to enriching the ICON experience for students across the globe.
In his session, Oostingh highlighted the importance of self-promotion and marketing oneself confidently to potential employers and senior professionals. This message stuck with me, as feeling confident about self-promotion is often challenging for young professionals, particularly in a field that’s all about promoting others. He emphasized that as Gen Z professionals, we bring a fresh, tech-savvy perspective and unique approach to PR, but it’s essential to own these strengths and present them confidently. In his own words, “Slay, you’re Gen Z!”
Jarno went on to share practical advice on overcoming self-doubt, identifying personal blind spots and showcasing your abilities in a competitive job market. This was incredibly empowering, especially as we prepare to navigate an industry that is constantly evolving and requires professionals who can adapt and thrive amidst rapid changes.
Moving Forward
My ICON experience reaffirmed the importance of Conferences and international gatherings for members. These events are more than just opportunities to learn, they are spaces for us to step out of our comfort zones, gain exposure to new ideas and tap into resources we wouldn’t otherwise have access to. Returning to Hawai’i, I have a renewed sense of purpose and motivation, I am also equipped with actionable strategies for my professional growth and feel a stronger connection to the national PRSSA community.
ICON exemplifies the value of PRSSA membership – it brings members from all corners of the country together to share, learn, and grow. I look forward to applying what I learned and continuing to connect with the friends and mentors I met at ICON. Conferences like these are crucial for PRSSA members to make the most of their membership and build a strong foundation for their future careers.
Crystal Castille (She/Her) is a senior at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, studying communications and political science. She joined the David A. Ward PRSSA Chapter, in the spring semester of 2023, where she grew exponentially in her young professional career. She now serves as the Chapter president and dedicates her efforts to growing the local student PR community. In her free time, outside of academic and professional goals, Crystal enjoys hiking, reading and painting to express herself. You can connect with her on LinkedIn.
