THE CATCHUP

by Reem Papageorgiou | December 10, 2021

This month’s CatchUp is with MomUp superstar, Mery Lewis, now the Program Director, at Somersault Innovation!

Tell us a bit about you! 

I live by the following quote " Life is a daring adventure or nothing at all" - Helen Keller. When I'm not working helping businesses and individuals increase brand awareness, you will find me traveling or trying new restaurants.

What career highlight are you most proud of?

I'm always one to take risks and just put myself out there and then learn as I go. 

When I was 25 years old, I decided to apply to a job that seemed a little "out of my league", but it was the title I always wanted "Creative Director." I remember going to the interview full of fears, but also very sure of the experience and the knowledge I was bringing. After 3 rounds of interviews, I got the job.

This gave me the opportunity and exposure to all different kinds of projects and clients, helping me further my career.

First job you ever had?

My first job was working at my college as a Peer Tutor. I did it for about 4 years and I loved teaching students about different subjects related to Graphic design, Web Design, and personal development.

What are you best job search tips?

To cast a wide net. Any lead you follow that does not ultimately work out is not time wasted as the information that you gather along the way can clarify your needs, wants, values, strengths, areas for improvement, etc.

Advice on balancing multiple contract roles?

I honestly start my day at 8 am with a TO-DO list and usually, finish my workday around 6 - 7 pm. During those hours I focus my attention on the tasks that are the most important and then work my way down to those things that are easier to do. Then I take my time to go to sleep at a good time, if you are tired, your mind will not be as productive as you would like it to be.

Favorite book, tv show, movie...?

This is such a hard question because I loveeee audio books and they are all my favorite because of the different topics, to name a few:

  • What I know for sure by Oprah Winfrey
  • Winning by Tim Grover
  • The Secret by Rhonda Byrne
  • Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
  • The Seat of the Soul by Gary Zukav
  • Untamed by Glennon Doyle
  • The Alchemist Paulo Coelho
  • Daring Greatly Brené Brown
  • Abundance Now by Lisa Nichols
  • Crushing it by Gary Vee
How has MomUp helped you?

I applied for a Program Director role that Reem was promoting through LinkedIn. I knew that my resume was totally focused on just graphic and web design, but I still decided to apply for the role, because I knew I had the skill set to perform well as a Program Director.

Reem reached out to me and actually took the time to "sell" my skills to the client. She did such an excellent job that I job, that I was able to get the position.  I can't thank her enough.