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On a warm summer evening young professionals lined up along Queen Street West, eagerly awaiting entrance into the much-anticipated 2014 Young Leaders Summer Social hosted by ULI Toronto.

The event, now in its fourth year, was social in nature, geared towards a younger demographic, and successful in part due to being a relaxed affair held at the rooftop bar patio atop CUBE Nightclub. With Toronto’s rapidly growing skyline as a dramatic backdrop, young professionals were afforded the opportunity to casually mingle over drinks and conversation. “Many in attendance are in the early stages of their career and this event is unique in that it provides a non-intimidating environment to meet people and develop long-lasting personal and professional relationships,” said Jordan Axani, Manager of Strategic Development at LiveWorkLearnPlay.

Speaking with other attendees, there was a shared sentiment as to the value of an event geared specifically towards young professionals. “The Summer Social offers a new generation of professionals who are just starting out in the development industry the ability to familiarize themselves with what and who is out there,” said Igor Dragovic, Associate Consultant for urbanMetrics inc. “This is important because many of us are likely going to work together in various capacities at some point in our careers.”

As the sun set behind the Financial District, the energy picked up as new friends stayed well past their bedtime discussing work, fun, and everything in-between.