Those of you that follow this blog will know I wrote about the Be The Change Awards back in March when I found out I’d been selected as a finalist. To go back and read my first post click here.
I decided to enter because competitions and awards are a great way to gain recognition and exposure, especially for a tiny business like mine. To enter there is often an entry fee however not in this case. It was completely free to enter. All I had to do was submit a video explaining my background, what obstacles I’ve faced, what motivates me and what my biggest achievements have been. As well as outlining my goals and bigger mission. Not easy in under 3 minutes!
The awards ceremony was held at the Museum of Brands on Friday the 26th of April. All 12 category winners were announced by Sian Conway and Jo Salter and there was much drinking and networking in between.
Sian and Jo explained their reasons for founding the awards which, funnily enough, were the exact reasons I entered. To give a platform to independent, ethical & sustainable brands who are working towards Sustainable Development Goals and creating positive impact in inspiring and world-changing ways. To attract enough sponsorship to allow entries for free was extremely tough but they felt it was important to provide access to all, no mater how small. It’s been hard work so thank you Sian and Jo for your dedication and passion.
I’m not a great networker, especially if I arrive alone and know absolutely no-one in the room. Even the word ‘network’ puts me off, it’s so impersonal, making me think of faceless corporate suits throwing business cards at everyone they meet. However, once I took the plunge and started talking to people I discovered some wonderful stories and inspiring brands.
I made a point of trying to meet everyone who was a finalist in the Babies and Children category. I particularly enjoyed talking mentors and marketing with Miriam from Nurture Collective . The winner Happy Pineapple, is an eco friendly publishing company. The dedication and completeness of their approach is inspiring and has given me loads of ideas to make Love HeartWood more sustainable, behind the scenes, as it were.
I arrived at the event with a slight imposter syndrome and feeling very much a single unit. I left feeling inspired and part of something bigger and bolder than myself.
This year is only the beginning for the Be The Change Awards. Jo and Sian have big dreams. So to find out more about this year’s changemakers and their stories follow the Be The Change Awards Facebook Page over the next few weeks. Then stand by for an exciting announcement about plans for 2020. I can’t wait.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
– Margaret Mead