When Sam Ruck flew the flag for a new organisation that would support young professionals working in the Ashburton District, he was overwhelmed by the response.

The idea was to create a group that would provide networking opportunities and a chance for younger professionals to mix with others in the district.

Ruck thought he’d be lucky to see 40 people at the first meeting; 70 turned up.

The definition of a young professional is broad, but as a guide it’s anyone in the first 15 years of practice in their job, he said.

“There’s nothing hard and fast about what your job is;  if you feel like the group might be for you, then come along,”

A professional could also include someone who was in a trade, but who was working their way up the management ladder, Ruck said.

“It’s about wanting to better yourself in your career and this will provide people with an opportunity for both social gatherings and for some professional development.”

The group is also a way for people who were new to town to meet some of their peers and the first meeting was attended by four people who had just taken up jobs in the district.

Anyone wanting to know more about the group can contact Sam Ruck at Argyle Welsh Finnigan or on Facebook – Mid Canterbury Young Professionals.

By Sue Newman © The Ashburton Guardian - 14 December 2016