A Win, a Nudge, and a Gentle Challenge to Us All

Well… what a night.

I’m thrilled (and still slightly stunned) to share that this time last week (give or take an hour and with a crafty glass of red to hand) I was named Education Leader of the Year at the 2025 East Midlands Leadership Awards!

To even be shortlisted in two categories—Education Leader and HR Leader—was more than I imagined. To walk away with one of them? Incredible.

But this isn’t just a post about a win. It’s a post about what recognition really means—and why we should all do more of it.

The Real Value of Being Seen

As leaders, we spend so much time shining a light on others that we often forget to pause and stand in it ourselves. I nearly didn’t enter these awards—I had to be nudged (repeatedly!)—because like so many people, I wasn’t sure I was “award-worthy”.

But here’s the thing: recognition matters. Whether it’s a national award or a quick “thank you” in a busy meeting, those moments of acknowledgement give people the boost they need to keep going, growing, and leading.

And it’s not just about celebrating the wins. It’s about noticing the effort, the intention, the difference someone makes—even if they’re not shouting about it themselves.

Let’s Make Recognition Part of How We Lead

This experience has reminded me that we shouldn’t need a spotlight or a stage to celebrate ourselves or each other. Let’s normalise:

• Public shout-outs

• Quiet “well dones”

• Nominations for awards, programmes, or development opportunities

• Even just a note that says, “I see the work you’re doing. It matters.”

Recognition doesn’t have to be grand—it just has to be sincere.

To Everyone Who’s Cheered Me On—Thank You

Winning this award is wonderful, yes. But more than anything, it’s a reflection of the people I’ve worked with, learned from, and supported over the years.

And to anyone thinking they aren’t quite “there yet”—whether that’s for an award, a promotion, or even a bit of praise—keep going. You don’t have to be perfect to be deserving.

So here’s your nudge: recognise someone today. And don’t forget to include yourself on that list.

You never know who needs to hear it.