The power of recognition: celebrating the people behind our profession

Winning the BVA Animal Health and Welfare Overseas Award was a really lovely thing. It always feels difficult to think that you deserve something like this when all the work I’m involved in is absolutely a team effort; nothing would be possible without so many amazing colleagues – too many to name here! There are so many fabulous previous winners who I really look up to, and it seems very strange to be in a group with them.

Being part of the veterinary community is very important to me. Although I left clinical practice some time ago, I still feel very much part of our community, which is testament to its strength. One of the main privileges of my role is working with vets and animal owners from many different places, and who have very diverse sets of life experiences. We achieve far more together than we ever could individually, and that shared commitment to improving animal health and welfare is one of the profession's greatest strengths.

Every job has its frustrations and mundanities. One of the best things about winning this award was the opportunity to step back and appreciate how lucky I am to do something that I truly enjoy, and am committed to. It was a wonderful surprise when I found out; it definitely isn’t something that happens every day. It meant a lot to know that colleagues had nominated me, and it meant a great deal to be recognised in this way.

Attending the awards ceremony was a reminder of the breadth of the profession and the many different ways people contribute. Hearing the stories behind the nominations brought to life the dedication and expertise of our veterinary colleagues, and can only make you proud to be part of this community.

If you are considering nominating someone for an award, I would encourage you to do so. Recognition is important, not simply for the individual receiving it, but because it highlights the contribution our profession makes to animals, communities and society more broadly. Taking the time to acknowledge a colleague's work is a meaningful way of recognising the people behind that impact.

Would you like to nominate someone for the BVA Animal Health and Welfare Overseas Award 2027?

Find out more about the award, or go straight to the nomination form.