I’m delighted to share that I’ve been recognised as one of the UK’s top independent PR practitioners in the first-ever Independent Impact 50 an awards programme that shines a spotlight on the incredible talent, dedication, and impact of the freelance PR community.

The Independent Impact 50 is a new initiative to celebrate solo and independent PR practitioners’ influence, commitment, and contribution.

Those of us who choose to work independently often do so for greater flexibility, creative freedom, and closer relationships with our clients but it also means wearing many hats, facing uncertainty alone, and constantly backing ourselves. So to be recognised like this is genuinely affirming.

Celebrated, seen, and valued

At the awards ceremony in London, held in a stunning venue overlooking St Paul’s Cathedral (with glorious sunshine and afternoon tea to match), I felt something rare and very special, truly celebrated for my work. The event brought together brilliant, inspiring professionals from across the independent PR world, many of whom I’ve long admired. The atmosphere was warm, supportive, and full of mutual respect.

One of the most poignant moments came from a short talk by the brilliant Advita Patel, who perfectly captured the reality of independent life. She spoke about “the courage and confidence it takes to go it alone” and reminded us that independents often operate without big teams, big budgets, or big safety nets. We are strategists, admin assistants, new business directors, content creators, crisis managers, often all in one day.

As Advita put it, “You try to navigate feast-and-famine cycles, and you battle with constant doubt, so you rarely pause to celebrate how far you’ve come.” That line hit home. Because like many freelancers, I’m usually busy focusing on the next thing, the next deadline, or the next challenge. This recognition gave me a moment to pause and reflect and to be proud.

What the judges were looking for

The judging panel looked for evidence of:

• Persuading clients to think differently
• Providing fearless advice
• Championing high standards of professional communication practice

To be acknowledged for this kind of work, the hard, strategic, behind-the-scenes work that often goes unseen, means the world. And two of the judges were sitting next to me!!

It’s a reminder that independent consultants are not just “doing PR”, we’re helping shape decisions, challenge norms, and deliver genuine impact for clients.

Heartfelt thank you 

A heartfelt thank you goes to Rod Cartwright and Nigel Sarbutts, who led this initiative with vision and purpose. Their efforts have given the independent sector something it truly deserves: visibility, respect, and community. Thank you also to the supporting organisations CIPR, PRCA, PRovoke Media, Socially Mobile, and headline sponsors 72Point for backing this new platform.

And of course huge congratulations to all of my fellow honourees. I’m proud to be in such incredible company, and especially grateful to have celebrated with many of you in person,

Final thoughts

Independent practitioners bring deep expertise, agility, and heart to everything we do. We work hard, we care deeply, and we give it our all, often while juggling everything else life throws at us.

To be recognised in this moment, and to see our whole sector being uplifted and celebrated, feels like a milestone. And hopefully, it’s just the beginning of a wider shift in how the independent freelance PR community is seen, valued, and supported.

Because as the Independent Impact 50 reminds us: change begins here.

I’m looking forward to the future.

More information here: Change Begins Here”: Independent Impact 50 Winners Revealed