An honour and a responsibility

I am feeling in a reflective mood for many reasons including that we are heading towards the conclusion of 2017. It has made me take stock of a few things and particularly from the past week or so.

Last Thursday night was the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) North West region Pride awards, which is a big date in the PR and communications calendar. For the first time we attended and  received a special recognition award for the work in the aftermath of the horrific terror attack in Manchester. 

I admit I shed a tear or two when the details of what the team did were read out. The team are amazing and have had to do things no communicator would ever expect to face. It was remembering the dedication, commitment and professionalism that was shown throughout. There were cancelled holidays and nights out, there were very long shifts and there were few rest days. The recognition of those PR colleagues who gave the team a standing ovation was worth so much to us all.

It is only now almost a week after the awards night that the achievement has really sunk in.

The other signicant event last week was that I was made a fellow of the CIPR which I still have not quite fully grasped. It feels a little unreal. I am very grateful to the people who nominated me and helped me achieve this honour. 

I do feel the burden of responsibility as Fellows for me have a duty to help enhance and progress the profession. I am sure there are things I should and will do to live up to this honour. I am overwhelmed by having the recognition from fellow PR professionals. 

Earlier in the year I blogged about the amazing feeling of being made a Fellow of the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA). Having both is beyond my wildest imagination and I just hope I can do justice to both of them. I am committed to living up to the support and confidence that has been shown in me this year.