Global Entrepreneurship Network New Zealand’s Post

The real reason industry recognition fuels our fire: Recently, we’ve been honoured with nominations for some major awards. Most recently, the EGR Global awards for Sports Affiliate of the Year, and SBC Latino America Sports Affiliate of The Year nominations. And while being recognised is great, there’s something more meaningful behind it. Here’s why these nominations matter: 🍀They honour every team member who’s poured their heart into our work 🍀They show that our bold ideas are making a real impact 🍀They boost our team’s morale, inspiring us to aim even higher Nominations aren’t the final destination They’re markers along the way. They remind us that we’re moving in the right direction, innovating, and thriving in a competitive industry. But the best part? I saw the excitement and pride in my team’s eyes, knowing their hard work was appreciated. So, here’s to all the nominees and those driving our industry forward. You’re all stars in my book. What does industry recognition mean to you?

When my professional network uses my preferred name, Rio, it makes me feel truly seen and respected. It’s a privilege I deeply appreciate. But there’s a lesser-known challenge that many trans professionals face: the loss of brand value tied to our previous names. My degrees, awards, and past professional accomplishments are under my previous name, and since I look quite different now, some peers no longer recognize me—or the contributions I’ve made. This loss extends beyond just recognition. We also lose leaders from our networks—people who once championed us, mentored us, or collaborated with us but now may not connect the person we are today to the achievements we built in the past. This means that trans people often have to rebuild their personal brands and reclaim the value of their hard-earned accomplishments. This year, I took steps to reinforce my professional identity under my preferred name, earning two certifications—both proudly in the name Rio! It’s a reminder that while this journey requires effort, it’s also an opportunity to redefine ourselves authentically. To anyone going through similar experiences: you’re not alone, and your value shines no matter the name you carry.

Trying to get better about posting insights & perspectives I often bring up in conversation, inspired by Chris Xu’s evergreen advice to publish pieces your future self will thank you for (and want to link to). Step one is building the list of my go-to insights…any nominations? Maybe something we talked about that stuck with you, or a catchphrase I shared with glee? So curious to see what will turn up! Feel free to comment here or message me directly.

GreenSquareAccord has announced receiving 254 nominations for their Gold Star Awards, describing this as an impressive 42% increase over last year’s entries. However, this claim seems somewhat underwhelming, especially considering their workforce size and the upcoming expenditure for the awards ceremony. To put this in perspective, with an employee base ranging between 1,000 and 5,000, the 254 nominations represent only about 5.08% to 25.4% of their total staff. Last year’s nominations, calculated to be around 179, indicate a low participation rate. Moreover, it is important to note that these nominations are solely from staff members, with no input from customers or residents. This exclusion is disheartening, particularly considering the crucial role that customers and residents play in the organisation’s operations. Their feedback and recognition would provide a more comprehensive and authentic measure of performance and service quality. When considering the costs associated with organising and hosting an awards ceremony, including logistics, venue, awards, and lost productivity, one must question the efficiency and impact of this exercise. The expenditure seems extravagant and not necessarily reflective of broad recognition across the organisation. Given these figures and the lack of customer/resident involvement, it's crucial to consider whether the awards genuinely enhance morale and recognition or if they simply serve as a costly tradition with limited reach. In light of these numbers, the resources allocated to the Gold Star Awards might be better invested in more impactful employee and customer engagement initiatives, or better yet spent making the homes of their residents safe, warm and dry.

Are you thinking about entering industry awards in 2025? You should be. But to improve your chances of success, it's important to plan and consider why you are entering awards and where they fit into your wider strategy and goals. - are you trying to raise your profile or client-base in a certain industry? - is the business trying to grow a service or specalism? - do you want to be seen as a great employer? - do you want an opportunity to socialise with the team? - or do you just want to be seen shoulder to shoulder with a peer/competitor? Thinking about this now, will help you to decide which awards to enter and which projects and campaigns would help to achieve your goals.

Have you ever considered nominating your people for awards? They can be a great vehicle for raising personal profile and boosting morale, but various things may result in your efforts backfiring, so do proceed with caution: 🅰️🅱️ Company culture: By nominating a few select people, you’re sending a message to everyone else (especially those in the same role) that they are secondary. Do you really want to risk creating an A team / B team mentality? ⌛️ Long lead times: There’s usually a big gap between the nomination deadline and the winner announcement. What if your nominee leaves in that time? Lots of time and money wasted on someone that’s no longer there… 🏹 Headhunters: If your nominee wins, be prepared for the headhunters to descend on them – and the risk that they may be poached by a competitor. 👩🏽⚖️ Unconscious judging bias: Some people awards/lists are selected only by the editorial team of a publication, not independent judges. This may minimise your nominee’s chances because they may have an unconscious bias towards people/companies that they already know through editorial coverage/advertising/sponsorship relationships. Are you already thinking about these things when planning your awards strategy/selecting the right ones to help you meet your objectives? #PeopleAwards #AwardsStrategy #AwardsConsultancy #AwardsAdvice #AwardsEntries

Time and time again competitors in these global awards say the same thing. They benefit from listening to their competitors in the awards program where integrity and transparency are king! No closed door sessions that are secret, or judges you can buy favors from - this is 100% pure competition where you also learn from and network with your competitors and go away richer with knowledge and ideas, and of course hopefully some awards! But you have to compete. Find out more: https://lnkd.in/gNCJ6EER

There are two things I care very deeply about- The conscious and purposeful development of AI that takes into consideration the needs of all of humanity. Not just AI that is convenient or helps make the rich richer. And the fight for equality, especially in tech, where so many women are undervalued or underappreciated (and underpaid but that's another post). That's why when the inspiring powerhouse of a woman, Dr Julia Stamm, contacted me about her project, Women Shaping the Future of Responsible AI, I knew I had to join. This award specifically recognizes the women who wake up every day and push to make the world better. They push for technology that helps people, not exploits them. They push for women's voices to be heard, even in a society that tells them to be small or quiet. Nominations are open for six more days. We have five categories where we see the voices of women can make a difference, so check them all out. I really hope that you all will not only nominate the trailblazing female leaders in your lives, but I hope you will also consider nominating yourself. Because you my dear, are amazing, and you're doing great work.

ATTN all smart, amazing people in my network who want to shake things up and bring a diversity of perspective to the table (and remind audiences that women over 40 aren't #invisible #ireelevant). The Stella Collective is a new initiative from the passionate Lot Hawkins and Sasha Radford who are championing a new way. One that is a personal passion of mine in advocating against #genderedageism and speaking up rather than keeping silent... They're hosting a launch event and its NEARLY SOLD OUT so get in quick. Juanita Neville-Te Rito is a guest speaker and know she'll be a 'must listen'. - - - - - A brief blurb >>> The Stella Collective was founded on belief that we could do better for people over 40 in general and women over 40 in particular. Our life and work experience showed us time and time again that people over 40 or often overlooked, even though the opportunity that we bring is so big. We founded The Stella Collective with a view that rather than accepting the status quo, we can actively change it by creating opportunities for brands to hear our collective voice. We are a collective of women 40+ who seek to champion the voice, vision, and needs of women 40+ for better representation in media and brand and product innovation. An individual voice has little power, but as a collective we can amplify who we are and what we want and enable you direct access to the brands to change this. martigne gloster Anna Henwood Anna Subritzky Melinda McKenzie Mel Cummings Melanie Spencer

Exciting times for the advertising industry, while we are talking about the Effie, the Cannes Lions are also on their way. Recognition can be a powerful motivator. This may come in many shapes. However, it's equally important to ensure that recognition is accurately attributed. If you find yourself receiving an undue credit even unintentionally, or noticing to leave a critical contributor behind, it's essential to speak up. Sincerely and timely. Because otherwise can undermine trust and collaboration within a team. How to secure an authentic recognition: Acknowledge the Mistake: Politely correct the person and redirect the credit to the rightful owner. Encourage a Culture of Fairness: Advocate for a workplace environment where everyone's hard work is acknowledged appropriately. By maintaining integrity and promoting accurate recognition, we not only foster a more positive and productive work environment but also set a strong example for others to follow.