Corryn Clemence, chief executive officer of the Tourism Industry Association of P.E.I., is ready for another busy tourism season.
Formed in 1980, TIAPEI represents the Island's five tourism sectors in all three counties to promote and advance the industry as well as help develop and improve visitor facilities and services.
With visitors, cruise ships and conventions already making their way to P.E.I. for the 2023 season, not to mention increased flights at the Charlottetown Airport, Clemence has a full agenda. Still, she took the time to answer our 20 questions.
Responses may have been edited for length and clarity.
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1 . What is your full name?
Corryn Naomi Clemence
2 . Where were you born and where do you live today?
I was born in Kindersley, Sask., and now live in West Royalty in Charlottetown. (Ironically, I was born on March 21 but was the New Year’s baby in the small village we we're from — Coleville, Sask.)
3 . What is one thing you would like people to know about you?
That I care and I want to help.
4 . What would people be surprised to learn about you?
When I was younger I toured Europe with a Canadian youth concert and jazz band.
5 . What is the hardest thing you’ve ever done?
Answered these questions. Lol It's tough to answer questions about yourself!
6 . Can you describe one experience that changed your life?
My first trip to visit Prince Edward Island. I was 19, and came with friends from the Island. I was supposed to come to stay for two weeks, and I fell in love with the Island and stayed for two months. I later went to Mount Royal University to take mass communications in Calgary, and decided I wanted to move to P.E.I. and make it my home.
7 . What is your greatest indulgence?
Sour gummies. I love sour candy.
8 . What is your favourite book?
"The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein.
9 . What is your favourite movie?
"Holiday Inn" with Bing Crosby. Really all Bing Crosby movies! But newer movies, I love the Marvel movies and "The Green Mile."
10 . What music do you like to listen to?
A little bit of everything, but I am a big country fan. Generally songs that tell a good story appeal to me.
11 . How do you like to relax?
Time spent with family and friends, definitely on the water. There is something so relaxing about being out on the water!
12 . What are you reading or watching right now?
"Ted Lasso." This is such a feel good show with such depth of characters. It’s started out as seemingly comedy, but the relationships between the characters and their own personal struggles are something I think most people can relate to. So sad it is over! (In fact, I don’t want it to end, so we continue to put off watching the final episode!) And of course the NHL Stanley Cup finals!
13 . What is your greatest fear?
Not being enough. Enough for my family, for my career, my co-workers and my friends. I’m a people pleaser by nature and it would kill me to think I let someone down.
14 . What is your greatest joy?
My girls. I have so much pride and love for my daughters. They amaze me every day and seeing them happy and thriving makes my heart full.
15 . What is your most treasured possession?
My father’s wedding band. He recently passed away this past November. He and I were always very close, he was my best friend. I wear his wedding band every day now and feel like he is still with me. It's also a symbol of my parents' marriage and love and strength.
16 . What’s the best advice you got from a parent or mentor?
"Don’t let fear and common sense get in your way." It’s an odd piece of advice that my father would tease me with growing up, but in a lot of ways it makes sense. Sometimes we need to trust our gut and just do it, or say it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. We find so many ways to talk ourselves out of things, that we never take a chance.
17 . What would you say is your best quality, and what would you say is your worst quality?
These are tough! I would say some of my worst qualities are that I tend to overthink and my mind races. I have 100 thoughts rolling through at the same time! Haha. My best quality, I try to understand people and their perspectives and communicate the best way I can in different situations. I also like to think I have a more creative side to me as well. I was 17 when I had the opportunity to tour Europe with a national youth concert and jazz band and it was the experience of a lifetime.
18 . Where is your favourite place in the world?
Prince Edward Island in the summer is the best place to be! It’s certainly my happy place. If I had to choose somewhere other than home, I would say Europe as a whole. The history, architecture, food, culture and scenery are fascinating and beautiful.
19 . Who do you follow on social media?
My social media is a mix of celebrities, athletes, local businesses, family and friends. I draw inspiration and learn from so many different people and love to see new ideas, activities and experiences.
20 . Which three people would join you for your dream dinner party?
Assuming these are three people dead or alive, I would say Martin Luther King Jr., my father and The Rock and Betty White! (Hard to pick only three)
