Announcing our 2022 NACE CPCE Scholarship Winners

At Instawork, we know that catering and events are challenging, but fulfilling work. No one works harder to make special occasions spectacular and seamless than passionate hospitality professionals.

In the ever-evolving hospitality industry, ambitious individuals often continue to build their skills through certifications like the NACE Certified Professional Catering Executive (CPCE). To help support two dynamic individuals with this opportunity, Instawork partnered with the Foundation of NACE to create a CPCE Scholarship.

“Whether you’re just starting out, or you’re a seasoned professional, being a Certified Professional Catering Executive empowers resumes, lands interviews, and commands higher salary packages,” explains NACE Member Tracey Amernick, Founder of Exclusive Events by Tracey. The CPCE speaks volumes. It demonstrates your commitment to self-improvement and provides you with a balanced knowledge of the entire industry.”

Round of applause for our 2022 winners

After reviewing hundreds of applications, it was no easy task to select our scholarship winners, but two passionate individuals stood out.

Congratulations to our 2022 scholarship recipients, Alexis Miller and Monica Yasmeen Maajid-Bey!

Instawork and NACE's CPCE Scholarship winners



We can’t wait to see what the future holds for these two hospitality professionals, and will be on the lookout for what you both accomplish in the years to come!

Keep reading to learn a little bit about each of our winners. 

Meet Alexis

CPCE Scholarship winner, Alexis Miller


It’s impossible not to be impressed with Alexis Miller from Feast on This in San Diego. Her career all started with one event in 2018, where she worked as a server at a Deaf Gala event. As a sign language interpreter, Miller jumped at the opportunity and never looked back.

A self-proclaimed “chaos coordinator,” Miller loves the events industry for many reasons, but it’s not only for the parties! She truly appreciates how events let her “explore her creativity and use this large part of her core personality to fulfill the dreams of others.” 

Picture of Alexis Miller's work

As she rose through the ranks—from server to captain, manager, assistant event planner, and now event planner—Miller continued to further her career in the hospitality industry. She believes that this scholarship will provide her with “the tools necessary to overcome the challenges of being so young in this industry compared to others in my field.” 

When it comes to jumping into action, Miller never hesitates. She shares, “No matter what it is, I take situations as they come and roll with the punches. I believe you can make an obstacle an asset.” 

Congratulations again, Alexis! We'e excited to see you put the scholarship to use and continue to make any obstacles in your way obsolete.

Meet Monica

With over 25 years of experience as an events manager, Monica Yasmeen Maajid-Bey has shown passion, commitment, and longevity in the hospitality industry.

Even after all this time, Maajid-Bey says "It's just such a fun industry." and that events are really just "assisting people in making their dreams come true."

She likes how with events exist for everyone, “no matter your income, your status, what walk of life you're in, being able to gather with friends and family. That's always such a great time.”

So how does Maajid-Bey plan on using her CPCE? She explains that "this scholarship will assist me in moving laterally in my current position, and get me to the point where I can start my own business.”

Congratulations again, Monica! We'e excited to see you put the scholarship to use and be able to start your own catering business.

The power of professional growth

The Instawork team is honored to help our Partners and Professionals make unforgettable events happen every day across the US and Canada.

Your growth is our growth, and we’re ready to tackle 2022 together.

Learn how we can meet your staffing needs!