DUFFERIN COUNTY Michele Harris leads tourism initiatives with collaboration and co-operation Canadian Design and Construction Report special feature Michele Harris, executive director Dufferin County's Hills of Headwaters Tourism Association, entered her economic development career through a side door, like many others. Harris received a commerce degree then worked in media before deciding to work in her own community when she had children. “I did freelance work and then opened a boutique marketing agency, helping small busi- nesses with their marketing needs and ultimately devel- oping a specialization in tourism hospitality and destination development,” she said. Her work in that field has shaped her own view of tourism as a key economic sector for Dufferin County's overall economic development. “There has been a shift in the understanding that tourism is a valuable asset as an economic driver,” she said. “Especially in more rural communities where tourism is also a reflection of local values and gives a community a sense of place.” Harris says Dufferin County has taken a unique ap- proach to economic development, bringing together dis- tinct organizations, including the Hills of Headwaters Tourism Association. Each group brings to the table clearly identified lenses, combining a collective story and common challenges to achieve important synergies. In her private work, Harris has made connections with a variety of industries and recognizes the benefits of public and private partnerships. “This all makes sense from a tourism perspective as well,” she says. “Often tourism is a first introduction to a community. It’s impor- tant to look at continuing and evolving that.” As a woman and mother, Harris made changes to her career path that brought her to where she is today, something she sees other women often do as well. She says women's careers often need to change course as their lives evolve. She has also noticed the increasing acceptance of women into community leadership responsibilities. “Now, whether you are male or female, the key to suc- cess in economic development is all about authentic connections.” She says success lies in proving yourself, proving you can deliver, being respectful of the people and busi- nesses in your community and in achieving the end goal. “It can be difficult to balance new concepts with existing thought processes but if it’s done properly, can change the way things happen. You have to both push the enve- lope on things you believe in and understand that what you do has to reflect the values of the community you represent.” Her advice to young people considering careers is to understand that tourism promotion/economic develop- ment can be a competitive and demanding. It isn't an in- dustry based in black and white or right and wrong, and learning from the bottom up is the only way to truly un- derstand and develop credibility. “This is a do-everything, start at the bottom and work hard to succeed kind of profession. It’s about owning a team vision and wanting only for the community you rep- resent to be successful, strong and sustainable.” The Canadian Design and Construction Report — Winter 2015 – 25 EDO