Although we are in the middle of our Meet the National Board blog series this is our usual Meet the Member day and I thought it fitting to introduce James Lambert from JCI Southampton.  Although James isn't on National Board and doesn't attend our meeting he's been a huge support to the team so far this year.  He's running our TOYP project, involved in organising LEAP and volunteered to help with our website.

Which chamber are you a member of?
Southampton

How long have you been a JCI member?
2 and a half years

What made you join?
I re-located to Southampton for work and originally joined JCI for the networking opportunities. Since joining I have got so much more out of being a member particularly in relation to Personal Development.

What is the most interesting JCI event you've been to and why?
LEAP (JCI's Leadership academy) which I attended in August 2013. Amongst other things the weekend helped me learn about myself and how I can work better with others as well as making some great new friends. LEAP is back for its 4^th year in 2015 and I am honoured to be the LEAP Director this year. If you haven't been to LEAP I would strongly encourage you to come this year (it's on 21^st - 23^rd August). For more info see http://www.jciuk.org.uk/leap

The 2014 LEAP delegate including james hiding

Had JCI presented any unusual/interesting opportunities?
Attending TOYP academy in Istanbul where I got to learn more about JCI and also local customs as I stayed with a JCI member there.

What is your job/career/profession/business?
I work as a tax accountant, preparing tax returns for people to ensure they (legally) don't pay too much tax

Has JCI had any impact on your job/career/profession/business?
Yes. JCI has improved my communication skills and increased my confidence in my own abilities.

What's your proudest achievement?
There are 2 - Being named Most Outstanding New Member in 2013 and also running the Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) project this year.

If we came to your home and looked inside your refrigerator, what would we see?
Not much as it is shopping day tomorrow!

What is a good weekend to you?
Relaxing with friends and a walk along the coast with my fiancé

Tell us something crazy/dangerous/inspiring/unusual you have done
I've done a couple of skydives (one over the desert in Africa and the other in New Zealand).

Thanks James!!