LIZZIE GONZALEZ

What motivated you to choose Confederation College, and what inspired your decision to pursue your program?

My decision to attend Confederation College was driven by a desire to provide a safer and more opportunity rich environment for my family. After relocating from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, I was looking for a community with tranquility and better prospects. Thunder Bay’s affordability and peacefulness made it the perfect choice over larger cities like Toronto.
Professionally, with over 20 years of experience in marketing and communications, I wanted to update my skills to align with the Canadian market. Enrolling in the Business Marketing program at Confederation College allowed me to enhance my knowledge especially in digital marketing and Canadian business practices. I chose this program because marketing is my career, and I simply wanted to improve and expand my expertise.

What was the most impactful experience during your time at Confederation College, whether academic, extracurricular, or personal?

One of the most significant experiences for me was serving as the Director of Social Events for the Student Union of Confederation College Inc. (SUCCI). This role gave me the opportunity to connect with a diverse student body, organize events, and foster a strong sense of community. It was truly one of my best experiences at Confederation College.
Another memorable highlight was organizing the "Brushes for Hope" fundraiser, which raised over $1,900 for First Nations youth. This event allowed me to apply my marketing skills while deepening my connection to the local community and making a meaningful impact.

How has your time at Confederation College shaped your journey, both personally and professionally?

My time at Confederation College was transformative. Balancing studies, work, and family in a new country, while studying in a second language was certainly challenging, but it strengthened my resilience and adaptability.
Professionally, the college gave me a platform to update my skills, which opened doors to roles in the Marketing and Communications department and later in the International Department, where I supported other international students.
Personally, the supportive environment and diverse community helped me integrate into Canadian society, build lasting relationships, and reinforced my belief in the power of community and collaboration.

What are you up to now?

I’m currently working as the Marketing & Community Engagement Coordinator at Jones Insurance. This role has been more than just a job it’s been a place of growth, belonging, and transformation.
At Jones Insurance, I’ve found not only a platform to apply my 20+ years of marketing experience but also a supportive environment that genuinely values both personal and professional development. From day one, I’ve felt emotionally and personally supported by my team. This sense of inclusion and encouragement has helped me build confidence, especially as someone navigating a new country and working in a second language.
Professionally, I’ve had the opportunity to lead community engagement efforts, develop integrated marketing campaigns, and manage our brand’s digital presence. Personally, I’ve been empowered with access to tools like Grammarly, which have been instrumental in improving my English communication skills and strengthening my confidence in the workplace.
Working at Jones Insurance has been incredibly fulfilling. The company's commitment to community involvement and personalized service aligns perfectly with my own values. I'm proud to be part of a team that not only provides exceptional insurance services but also actively contributes to the well-being of our community. Jones Insurance is more than a workplace it’s a community that has embraced my vision and given me space to thrive, contribute meaningfully, and continue growing both as a marketer and as a newcomer to Canada.

Is there anything else you'd like to share? Whether it's personal or professional—have you recently bought a house, tied the knot, or received an award? We'd love to hear about it!

Following my graduation from the Business Marketing program at Confederation College, I continued to invest in my professional development by completing the Marketing Academy BMA Ignite program. This experience at Niagara on The Lakes was a powerful extension of my academic foundation, offering advanced insights into branding, strategy, and leadership in the Canadian brokerage marketing landscape. BMA Ignite not only deepened my industry knowledge but also connected me with a network of passionate professionals across the country. It was a milestone that reinforced my commitment to lifelong learning and strengthened my confidence as a marketing professional navigating a new cultural and business environment.