Our Annual Award Ceremony is one of the highlights of the CGIUKI calendar, marking the start of the festive season for the Institute. Given the under-recognised contribution of effective governance teams and professionals to their organisations, we should all make it more of a priority to stop and take time to congratulate colleagues on a job well done, and the Award Ceremony provides a chance for us to do that.
Of course, there is always more to do, room for improvement and chances to learn and grow, but as we reach the end of another calendar year, there is value in looking back at how far we have come, rather than always looking ahead to the next challenge.
This year’s Awards Ceremony took place at the InterContinental Hotel and was hosted by TV presenter, Konnie Huq. Attended by over 500 guests all in black tie, the evening got off to a great start with a drinks reception to welcome guests. Once everyone was seated, they enjoyed a delicious meal before the formalities – the giving out of 16 well-deserved awards –started.
It should be noted that the judging process for the CGIUKI awards is notoriously challenging because of the incredible quality of the submissions we receive. Whittling each long list down to just one winner takes hours of time and consideration from our expert judging panel, to whom we owe a very big ‘thank you’. We would also like to congratulate all those who were nominated but did not receive an award this time – there is always a chance next year.
Regardless of whether you attended the Awards Ceremony, why not spend a bit of time thinking about what you and your team have achieved this year. Sometimes this will be a project that has come to fruition, but it could also be something less ‘tangible’. Perhaps you hit all your deadlines, perhaps you improved your work–life balance, perhaps you sorted out that folder that has been in a state for months. Whatever it may be, acknowledge your accomplishments – it can boost your mood, build your confidence, and fortify you to take on whatever the next challenge might be.
Take a look at the flickr album of the night, whether you were there or wished you had been.
