We wanted to give Editors Toronto members and student affiliates another way to get to know their executive committee, while also showing them 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 for our “Executive Unplugged” series.
Meet Gulsum Salimova, Co-Chair
Gulsum joined the Editors Toronto volunteer executive committee as a communications chair last year. She completed her editorial certificate program at George Brown College and has had an amazing experience working with the Editors Toronto volunteer team.
Her lifelong passion for languages and bilingualism in Canada (French and English) has led her to work for the Official Languages Programs.
What kind of editor are you? Tell us a bit about your experience.
When I started my editorial program a few years ago, I did not know where my studies would lead me. I have always been fascinated by the magic of editing (because that is what it feels like), inspired largely by having seen my father shape papers and text into beautiful works of art. I think editing is a lifelong interest that will be a part of whatever I do. In my current role, I find that I use my editing skills daily, and it gives me more confidence in my communication. Some of my past roles in editing have been at a magazine, an academic journal, and at Editors Toronto.
What is your favourite part of the role you hold on the executive committee (or the “exec,” as we call it)?
My favourite part has to be working with a creative, dedicated, and inspiring group of people on the exec team. (That does sound like all of it!) It feels nice to be in a space where we can come together, collaborate, and improve our member experience. A lot of teamwork is involved, and I constantly learn from my peers, which is very motivating.
Give us an elevator pitch for your role.
As co-chair, your primary role is to support your team, so that each exec member can thrive in their position. If you enjoy working with people, coordinating multiple projects, and problem-solving, then the co-chair role is a great fit for you. Strong organization skills are a key part of the role. The best part of the experience is the collaborative and community aspects of volunteering.
There is quite a bit of support all around. First, within the exec team, we work well together, and everyone is willing to step in to help one another. Second, with two co-chairs in the branch, you can divide the responsibilities according to each person’s strengths. Third, Editors Canada provides support to the branches and twigs, and the branches encourage and promote one another as well. Ultimately, it is great to be a part of a vibrant community where we all work together, sharing ideas and laughter along the way.
What’s your favourite part of an exec meeting?
A lot of work goes on behind the scenes before and after the exec meetings and we often stay in touch via messages. My favourite part of the exec meeting is seeing our team with smiling faces when we all come together on a video call. Each one of our team members takes initiative on new and creative projects, and I love being able to thank them “in person” for their work.
If you didn’t have your role on the exec, what role would you pick?
That’s hard to say. I was a communications chair last year, and I really enjoyed the role. This year, I am a co-chair, and I am enjoying that as well. I think each role has been a learning opportunity, and I am grateful for the experience.
This article was copy edited by Susan Blagg, a freelance editor living in Toronto.
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