Celebrating Milestones: A Journey of Change and Resilience

Wow, wow, wow! What an adventure I've had, and I can hardly contain my excitement as I reflect on the whirlwind of emotions and experiences that have filled the past week.

Have you ever felt as though you couldn’t trust your own senses? That was me just a week ago, and I’m still processing the overwhelming rush of emotions and the sheer magnitude of events that unfolded.

Six weeks ago, I received the incredible news that I had been shortlisted as a nominee for the 2024 Change Awards. To say I was honored would be an understatement. The Change Awards, with its mission to recognize the unsung heroes of change across various categories, symbolizes a celebration of dedication, innovation, and impact. Being shortlisted for the prestigious Lifetime Award was a humbling moment that filled me with gratitude and excitement, knowing that my contributions were being acknowledged on such a grand scale.

The culmination of this journey led me to the glamorous setting of Draper’s Hall in London for the Change Awards ceremony. Surrounded by industry peers and esteemed leaders, I felt a sense of camaraderie and anticipation as the evening unfolded. Then, to my disbelief, my name was called out as the recipient of the Lifetime Award. In that moment, I was overcome with emotion, unable to fully trust my own senses as I stepped onto the stage to accept this extraordinary honor. It was a moment I will cherish forever—a validation of years of hard work, dedication, and passion for driving positive change.

But the excitement didn’t end there. Just 48 hours later, I found myself experiencing an even greater award—one that filled me with pride and joy beyond measure. My youngest daughter, Lily, walked across the stage to receive her diploma from Michigan State University's College of Education. Her journey to this moment had been marked by challenges and setbacks, from the disruptions caused by the pandemic to the trauma of a campus shooting. Yet, despite it all, she persevered, demonstrating resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

As I reflect on this whirlwind of professional and personal achievements, I am reminded of the countless obstacles we all overcome throughout careers and life’s journey.

My journey has included navigating the responsibilities of single parenthood to building a successful business that could support my family, and finally finding love and partnership, the road has been anything but easy. Yet, it is these challenges that have shaped me, fueling my determination to make a difference and inspire others to overcome their own obstacles.

I share these experiences not to boast, but to underscore the power of resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in the possibility of change. As change and project managers, we are tasked with navigating complex landscapes, driving transformation, and overcoming resistance. In the face of uncertainty and adversity, it is our ability to adapt, innovate, and lead with empathy that truly defines our impact.

So, as we celebrate milestones and accomplishments, let us also embrace the journey—the ups and downs, the challenges, and triumphs—that ultimately shape who we are and the legacy we leave behind. Together, let us continue to champion change, inspire resilience, and make a lasting difference in the world.Here's to the adventure ahead!