Keeping Busy In The Cultural Sector

If one was to describe Jessica Kropf in one word, you might go with “indefatigable.” While most students would have their hands full with an internship, she made it one part of an ambitious plan to experience the breadth of the cultural sector. Just how much is Jessica doing at once? She is: taking Centennial College’s Culture and Heritage Site Management graduate program, interning at Lord Cultural Resources, working at the Hockey Hall of Fame, and volunteering at the Bata Shoe Museum – there’s probably more, but you get the point.

Why take on so much at once? For Jessica, it’s all about embracing opportunity and not being afraid to get out of one’s element.  Through this system, Jessica has been able to develop “a more holistic view of the sector,” and that means she was an easy fit for Lord Cultural Resources, where she joined a team with an “astounding level of experience and broad range of expertise.” Whether working on projects for festivals, museums, or urban development, Jessica has brought to bear her wealth of experience and determined work ethic.

Although Jessica works hard, she doesn’t lose herself in her work. At our monthly millennial meetups – yes, we have those, and yes, they’re amazing – she shares a great enthusiasm for working in the cultural sector, and joins in on the riotous laughter that often overwhelms the table. Also, a year spent abroad in Ireland hints at someone who pursues adventure as much as professional success.

What’s the next step for someone so set on seizing opportunity? Jessica expressed a great level of hope about the new federal budget and what it means for the cultural sector. Most of all, she has her sights set on working in museum business management, specifically with the goal of one day becoming a consultant. If she keeps working this hard, she’ll have no problem achieving her goals.

Not one to waste time, Jessica already has an exhibition in the works. As part of her program with Centennial College, she has collaborated with her classmates on Home*, an exhibition exploring the ideas of home and migration and how they relate to Toronto’s history and present circumstances. The exhibition will be held at BAND gallery from April 14^th to May 1^st. Tickets for the opening reception are available here.

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About The Author

Kevin Valbonesi is a media specialist with a sweet spot for museums and art galleries. As Communications Coordinator for Lord Cultural Resources, Kevin keeps his finger on the cultural sector’s pulse and highlights the brilliant work being done at Lord.