Mika Ryan: A Storied Career in Media Relations

After 27 years, Mika Ryan, Senior Manager, Marquee Events Travel Media, is preparing to semi-retire at the end of February. Driven by her passion for media relations, Mika shares stories about her career and her work, showcasing travel to BC with audiences worldwide.

Mika, can you tell us a little bit about your past roles?

Throughout my career in tourism, I have worked closely with the media and travel trade. I’ve always appreciated that this work is based on relationships.

My work is meaningful because coverage can make a massive difference for people. Media coverage isn’t something you can buy, and people see these stories as a third-party endorsement. The media makes a significant impact on our industry.

When you think about your time here, what feels most defining?

Externally, it’s important to have a job that’s socially redeeming. I’m so fortunate to sell this beautiful place we live in, and my work makes a difference to the tourism industry and the small businesses within it. I’ve had a job where I can truly make a difference.

What are you most proud of, and why?

First, I am most proud of the team I have worked with. It’s always the people.

Two of my professional highlights include the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and the introduction of Travel Classics to BC.

With Vancouver 2010, we changed how broadcasters collaborate with host cities and destinations. We built strong relationships with the outlets, even embedding staff members with them during the Games. This was something broadcasters had never done before Vancouver 2010.

And Travel Classics, too. It’s an invitation-only travel media event supported by a private business. Editors are matched with freelance writers who pitch stories. We’ve been lucky enough to host it in BC multiple times. The event continues to generate media coverage for years after.

What moments best capture what working in BC tourism has meant to you?

I’ve been here a long time and have witnessed world events that have changed everything. From 9/11 to the economic meltdown to COVID, things can change overnight. Throughout it all, we’ve shown resilience as an industry, finding ways to move forward.

The world impacts us, and we’re still standing. We pull together; we get through it. In times like these, I’m more grateful to be Canadian. What we stand for matters, and the world needs Canada more than ever. And they need to come here!

Who or what made the work meaningful day to day?

One meaningful aspect of my experience was working with journalists from around the world and sharing our province with them. Through their perspectives, shaped by their backgrounds, I gained a better understanding of how differently we live here in BC.

Upon arrival, many journalists will disembark from the plane and take a moment to breathe in our fresh air. We’ve had journalists who have never seen snow before, and it’s wonderful to witness their reactions as they experience it for the first time. Just seeing where we live through their eyes is a privilege. Some reporters have never encountered raccoons!

What excites you about the future of BC tourism?

A few things excite me. The fact that we’re this beacon in the world brings tourism opportunities.  And that we’re getting better at focusing on travellers who share our values, those who will come here and appreciate the beauty of BC, and support local businesses.

What will you miss most?

The people. I’ve been so lucky to work with people all over the province and to be part of their day-to-day. But I’ll stay in touch.

What’s next for you?

I’m taking the summer off and will explore BC.  I’m also volunteering for an organization that helps seniors keep their pets at home. I’ll be dog-walking and doing whatever it takes to keep these dogs in their homes.

Next fall, I plan to be selective and work on projects that align with my values.

And I will definitely be doing some gardening and spending time with my granddaughter, Yumi!