Sundance Filardi joined Speakers’ Spotlight in an administrative role in 2002, and is now the director of the Celebrity Division. Since joining the company, she has gained an extensive knowledge of the industry and built lasting relationships with speakers, celebrities, and clients. Sundance creates a friendly atmosphere with a prompt attentiveness to her clients’ needs, helping match her clients with outstanding talent. In her spare time, Sundance acts, dances, sings, practices yoga, and enjoys trying new restaurants and outdoors activities with her dog. We’re thrilled to put Sundance in our staff spotlight today:

Did you always want to work in the speaking industry? If not, what other careers did you consider? 

I actually never even knew the speaking industry existed, until right before I started working at Speakers’ Spotlight.  I wanted to be many things including a dancer, actor, naturopath and fashion designer, and actually was working in the fashion industry before I joined Speakers’ Spotlight.  From my experience in the arts, I was attracted to the world of entertainment and found a job opening at Speakers’ Spotlight as their executive assistant 12 years ago. Since then, I’ve become the director of our Celebrity Division.

Any advice for people getting started in the industry? 

I would suggest immersing yourself in the industry, watching speakers, and attending industry events.

What themes do you see arising in the industry when you book speakers for clients today? Innovation? The importance of social media? 

In this industry, like many others, themes are always changing with new trends, social and economic changes, and business challenges.  Lately, there has been a trend toward innovation, among others.

Do you have any great stories from events you’ve attended featuring Speakers’ Spotlight speakers? 

Every year we hold an annual showcase, featuring six speakers for our clients. Each year, I am reminded of how captivating our speakers are and the number of ways they move people and affect lives both personally and professionally with just one speech. I love this event because we get to interact with our clients in person.

What is your favourite thing about working with Speakers’ Spotlight’s “Celebrity” Division? Can you tell us about a great campaign you worked on? 

I love so many things about the Celebrity Division–working with exciting, high-profile talent you really get to know them, and it’s enjoyable finding brands that are authentic to them and vice versa.

Which Canadian city is your favourite? 

Toronto.

Desert island album?

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, by Lauren Hill.

Last book you read?

An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth, by Chris Hadfield.

Last film you saw?

American Hustle.

You host a dinner party and can invite two guests, dead or alive, who are they?

Alexander McQueen and Angelina Jolie.