Event Marketer Summer 2023 - 116

PRIDE IN EVENTS
ROGER MAHUSAY >> Associate Manager-Media/Public Relations Events | T-Mobile
The Bragging Rights: Born in the Philippines and raised in Anchorage, AK, Mahusay describes himself
as a proud gay Asian American veteran of the Air Force who also happens to be a biologist, an MBA
graduate, loving husband, dog and plant dad, and a brand storyteller. Beginning his career at T-Mobile 12
years ago as a front-line retail employee, Mahusay quickly racked up Winners Circle award trips multiple
times and became inspired by the intricacies of event planning-joining the events team soon after.
Colleagues describe him as " instrumental " in the continuous development of Winners Circle and PEAK
programs, among many other large-scale events within the company.
" Overcoming adversities and
finding your voice in this
world is difficult, especially
for the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC
communities. Not all of us
have a platform and space
to be heard. Working for a
company that celebrates
diversity and uniqueness is an
honor. I am also proud to be
able to represent the LGBTQ+
and the AAPI community.
I found my voice and learned
how to leverage being
different to help me succeed.
Now, I can pay it forward and
help my colleagues, friends
and allies find theirs. "
What are you most proud of so far in your current work?
My part in strategizing and bringing to life T-Mobile Pride Events alongside our DEI organization. If
you told me five years ago while I was still working in a retail store that this is what I would be doing, I
would have laughed and walked away. But I was able to start from the ground up and find opportunities
in my company to get myself into corporate event management. Being different makes us stronger, and I
embraced my uniqueness and forged my path toward my goal.
What do you love about this industry?
This industry has challenged me to think outside of the norms and ensure everyone has a voice. One day I
am planning an incentive event for thousands of people in Miami, the next I am in Kansas City managing a
drag show and Pride parade, and next thing you know, I am in an NFL Draft or MLB sponsorship pre-party.
I can't stress enough how being different makes you stronger.
Describe the role of mentors in your work life.
One of the biggest things I have learned in my professional journey is the importance of people who push
and challenge you. I have been fortunate enough to have mentors who forced me to step outside of the box
and think innovatively on how I can make a big impact. I have mentors since my younger years in the Air
Force until now in my current role in T-Mobile. No matter who they are, my mentors have showed me the
importance of authenticity, servant leadership, integrity and respect for people.
JAKE MCINTYRE >> Director of Business Leadership | Momentum Worldwide
The Bragging Rights: McIntyre concentrates on the American Express client's b-to-b vertical at
Momentum, leading projects spanning customer, prospective and internal events for the brand. A " jack of
all trades, " McIntyre has experience in account management, business development, production and everything
from live entertainment, trade shows, festivals and immersive activations to conferences and summits.
" I strive to lead teams where everyone feels invested in the project, can bring their authentic self and knows
they can share their ideas. A good idea can come from anyone in any department, " McIntyre says.
What do you love about this industry?
I love the weird problems we get to solve and how event people are not fazed. You know a real event person
when you hear a request others would get stressed over or think is impossible and your first thought is: OK,
who can I call and how much will it cost to solve this? I also love that we're really all one team. It doesn't
matter your title-if the doors open in two hours and load-in was stalled, we're all setting flowers, putting
down place cards, organizing merch or cleaning up trash.
How your co-workers
would describe you:
" Loud, colorful, fun,
direct and decisive. "
How can the industry better encourage employees to bring their true selves to work?
First, it's on leadership to show up and be authentic and human with employees, clients and teams. They need to set the example for the wider team
and set the tone. I've been fortunate in my career to have had a number of out, queer bosses and queer colleagues who made me feel safe to define
what my true self is professionally and not feel I had to hide any part of myself. Working virtually so much means we lose the in-between water
cooler or desk chat moments. So, I try to share small details or things outside of work with colleagues, and even clients, so that others feel comfortable
sharing, too. This approach gives more color and texture to my work persona and reminds everyone that we're all people and not just work robots.
Greatest lesson you've learned so far in your career.
Minimal is not really my style so here's a handful of lessons from my career so far: Honey attracts more than vinegar in dealing with people. Double
check, double check, and then triple check. Ask more questions. It's not " no " -it's: That will take X amount of money and Y amount of time to do.
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Event Marketer Summer 2023

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