We want to give the Editors Toronto members and student affiliates another way to get to know the executive and find out what is involved in being on the committee. So, we asked executive committee members to introduce themselves and their roles by answering a few questions.
Meet programs chair, Jessica de Bruyn. She’s been a member of Editors Toronto for two years. Jessica came into editing after working as a performer and studying writing for theatre, film, and television. She is also a passionate traveler and eternal student.
What kind of editor are you? Tell us a bit about your experience.
I am a substantive editor and focus on critiquing manuscripts and coaching writers. I do a little bit of online writing and editing but don’t really consider myself a copy editor. My passion is storytelling and helping people to shape their stories, and I absolutely love problem solving when it comes to structural, character, and plot details that are not yet working in a piece. I also love working on queries and non-fiction proposals and helping authors to navigate the world of publishing.
What is your favourite part of the role you hold on the executive committee (or the exec, as we call it)?
I am a person with lots of big ideas and I love that our exec lets me run with them and supports me in everything I bring forward. I cherish this team so much and I miss hanging out in person at our meetings and events!
Give us an elevator pitch for your role.
My main role is to plan and run our eight programs of the season. This means coming up with topic ideas, finding and booking speakers, creating the promo copy, and doing logistics on the day of the event. It’s a great job for someone who likes planning and people.
What’s your favourite part of an exec meeting?
I love hearing what everyone else is up to, both in their role on the exec and just in their lives and personal work. I do admit that I have a skill for getting us off topic and extending the meetings longer than they likely need to be. But it is so exciting to help put together some great events and resources for editors here in Toronto.
If you didn’t have your current role on the exec, what role would you pick?
I think I am pretty well suited for the role I have. We have a new community liaison position opening up though, and I think I would love that. I am always looking for an excuse to go to publishing events and meet others in the industry. I’m also really proud of what our exec has done and want more people to join our community.
Editors Toronto holds elections to fill the executive positions every May. If you are interested in the positions and their availability, please contact us at [email protected].
This article was copy edited by Alex Marcoccia.
BoldFace 