Chamber intern spotlight: Emma Gravelle

The Calgary Chamber is proud to support the next generation of talent in Calgary and we are excited to introduce one of our summer interns who brings so much to our team.

Meet Emma Gravelle, who joined the Chamber about a year ago as a Policy and Communications Intern. When she isn't working in our office, she works part-time remotely from the University of Amsterdam where she is in her third year of studies working towards a Bachelor of Science in Communication Science.

Emma enjoys photography, yoga, strength training and she loves trying new foods. Before moving 7,200 kilometers away from home to attend university, she was an all-star competitive cheerleader and can even do a standing backflip!

Get to know more about Emma...

Q: What’s your favourite part about working at the Chamber?

A: The people. I’ve had many jobs, but I have never felt more welcomed and appreciated in a workplace than at the Chamber. Not only have the people made a significant impact, but they make me excited to return to the office every Monday.

Q: What have you learned, or what are you hoping to learn more about while working at the Chamber?

A: When initially starting at the chamber I knew nothing, or very little, about policy and government relations. However, within only a couple weeks, the policy and communications team totally altered my perspective on things related to policy and government, so much so that I even chose my minor because it was related to policy.

Q: What are your career goals post-graduation?

A: Working at the Chamber has been a truly transformative experience, fuelling my passion for the field of policy and government relations. After I graduate, I intend to seek opportunities that allow me to deepen my understanding of policy development, engage in strategic advocacy and refine my communication skills. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute my knowledge, passion and dedication to organizations and initiatives that share my commitment to effective policymaking, government relations and impactful external communications. By channelling my energy into these areas, I aspire to make a lasting and positive difference in society.

Q: Where do you see yourself in ten years? What’s the big career dream?

In ten years, my big career dream is to have made a significant impact on the mental healthcare system within Canada and, ideally, on a global scale. Having personally experienced the challenges of mental health and witnessed the strain it places on an inadequate healthcare system, I am driven to drive change and provide better support for individuals in need. My vision is to contribute to transforming the mental healthcare landscape, working on innovative solutions that address the growing mental health crisis. By advocating for improved government policies, healthcare infrastructure, social systems, as well as the adoption of technology, preventative care and education, I aim to create a future where mental health is prioritized, and individuals receive the care they deserve.

Additionally, I aspire to be actively involved in destigmatizing mental health issues, raising awareness and promoting mental wellness within society. By fostering understanding, empathy and support, I aim to create a culture where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health. Overall, my ultimate goal is to contribute towards a healthcare system that effectively supports the mental well-being of individuals, leading to healthier populations and promising futures.

Q: What makes you ‘you?’ What are your favourite things to do outside of work?

A: What defines 'me' are the simple joys and meaningful connections in my life. I treasure the moments spent with my family, whether it's going for dog walks or having brunches at Bluestar Diner with my dad or sharing movie nights and TV show marathons with my mom. Nature holds a special place in my heart; I find comfort in exploring the mountains hiking, swimming and wandering. My friends hold equal significance in my life. Together, we enjoy thrifting, exploring and relaxing on patios while people-watching with a beer in hand. These are the elements that make me who I am.