Transforming Chaos into Creativity: How Event Planning Shapes Impactful Experiences

49er Chat Kasey S

Transforming Chaos into Creativity: How Event Planning Shapes Impactful Experiences
Kasey Schoen '12
Senior Events Manager
Signature Travel Network
 

Join us for an insightful 49er Industry Chat with Kasey Schoen '12, Senior Events Manager at Signature Travel Network.

In this session, Kasey will share how strategic planning, adaptability, and creativity come together to shape impactful events. Whether you're interested in hospitality, marketing, or event management, you'll gain valuable insights into navigating the fast-paced world of event planning.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an industry expert and discover how to transform chaos into creativity!

This conversation is part of Grow Long Beach’s Hospitality and Tourism sector, Mayor Rex Richardson’s initiative to strengthen workforce pipelines and drive economic growth. 

Natalie Mgonja is a Tanzanian-American experience curator, travel planner, and founder of Backyard Ventures, a company redefining tourism through slow, intentional, and wellness-focused travel. After earning her degree in Communication Studies from Cal State Long Beach, she returned to Tanzania, navigating startups and tech before building her own path in experiential travel. Through retreats, co-living, and curated adventures, she invites travelers to immerse themselves in regenerative travel—connecting with themselves, local communities, and nature beyond the surface-level tourist experience. Her work blends mindfulness, creativity, and adventure, fostering personal transformation and deeper connections. Natalie is passionate about reshaping how people experience travel, turning it into a journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and sustainable impact.