In the 70% 7th edition, we’ll talk with Yasmine Perez, Director of Global Projects and Production at Sear Presents.
Have you been in the events industry for years?
I’ve been in event games for over 16 years, but in reality I’ve been planning parties since my teens. It’s always been me. The funny thing is, I didn’t realize it could be a career until I went to college. I was doing childhood research and after A-Levels I was trying to understand everything as most people would do, if necessary.
How do you balance the growth of professionals with personal commitment? Also, do you think the industry is evolving in terms of work-life balance?
Balancing professional growth with personal life is still a job I’m currently in progress. The event is not 9-5. It is all consumed, all the energy, and often everything. My personal commitment has definitely taken the back seat, but I’m still learning how to set better boundaries. That being said, I have become more intentional about protecting my time. And I’m fortunate to see them consciously embedding flexible work policies and early finishes to try and support the team as much as possible. The industry is slowly catching up in terms of work-life balance, but there is still a long way to go.
How do you think the events industry is evolving in terms of diversity, equity and inclusion?
Certainly, awareness and dialogue about diversity, equity and inclusion in the event industry is more than ever before, but the actual change is not only spoken in panel talks and used as hashtags, but also takes action. Representatives across all levels, from planning and leadership to suppliers, still need work. But I’m looking forward to it as more voices are speaking out. And there’s a growing push to be intentional about not only performance, but also inclusion. It is a continuous journey and we all have a role to play.
Personally, as part of the gift of proudly defending women’s empowerment on a 90% women’s leadership team, I felt more included and supported than ever as a woman in this industry. It not only spoken, but shows what is possible when included in the company’s fabric. There is still a long way to go, but I hope more institutions take meaningful steps in the same direction.
What advice would you give to young women looking to join the event industry and succeed?
Don’t defeat rejection, it’s part of the journey. I dust myself and found another way. I started during the recession when opportunities were scarce, so I took on roles like cleaning, bar work, artist liaison and more. These experiences have given me a deeper understanding of the industry from all angles.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and reach out for support. Whenever anyone gets there alone, people are often more willing to help than you think.
I always tell my younger sisters: if you can’t do exactly what you have passion right away, find something related to it. Every step is important.
How do you handle set errors and failures?
Setbacks and failures are part of the game, especially in an industry that is as fast-paced and constantly changing as events.
Through my years of experience, I have learned that things don’t always go to planning, so sometimes I just roll with punches. For me, it’s about retreating, taking a breath, reassessing the situation, and leaning on people I trust for guidance. Having a mentor or colleague who will guide you through difficult moments can really help you give that big picture perspective. It’s a constant learning process, but it’s exciting.
What changes do you think are still needed to create more opportunities for leadership women?
If women make up 70% of our industry, but only make up 20% of leadership roles, then we need to find ways to create more opportunities for women at the top. I believe that the key to empowering women is to give them the space to become themselves.
When women can openly share suggestions and ideas with their supportive peers, it creates an environment in which they can grow, lean on their voices and truly embrace their paths. It is also about creating structures that support this growth, whether through mentorship, flexible work policies, or whether to ensure that women’s voices are heard and evaluated in decision-making. Expression is important and encourages women to believe that when they see other women leading well, they can do the same.
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