Well, this is a bit exciting, isn’t it?
When I found out I’d been anonymously nominated for Businesswoman of the Year at the Women’s Business Awards 2025, I was (as you can see in the pic) utterly chuffed to bits. And a tiny bit shocked, if I’m honest.
I mean, someone actually thinks I’m smashing it in business enough to throw my name into the hat alongside some of the most awesome women from across the globe? Crazy.
In this post, I’m sharing the scoop on the nomination, how awards have shaped my journey so far, and how you (yes, you!) can make the most of moments like this to build your brand.
[Spoiler: it involves being a bit brave, saying yes to stuff and telling your story like you mean it.]
The Power of a Nomination
First of all, let’s get one thing straight: I’m not in this for the trophy (although, let’s be honest, shiny things are lovely!).
Being nominated is an honour in itself. It means someone saw what I do at Above & Beyond VA—supporting neurospicy creatives with admin and content that doesn’t make them want to scream into the void—and thought, “Yep, she’s the one.”
That kind of recognition isn’t just good for the ego (though mine did do a little dance); it’s a welcome reminder that our work matters.
That creating a business that plays to your strengths and supports others in doing the same is worth celebrating!
A nomination can also give you a nudge to nominate yourself for an award – I did just that when I recently applied for Inspirational VA of the Year in the 2025 UK VA Awards organised by Amanda Johnson of VACT. I don’t know if I’ll get through but you’ve got to be in it to win it, right?!
A Look Back: My Award-Winning Journey
So how did I get here? Rewind to 2020: the year we were all in our PJs, wondering if banana bread could be considered a personality trait.
That’s when Above & Beyond VA was born! I wanted to create a business that not only embraced my superpowers but helped other creatives and coaches thrive too.
Since then, I’ve picked up a few awards (cue awkward humblebrag): recognition for copywriting, client experience and being an all-around VA unicorn including:
- Best Content Writing & Admin Service Provider 2024 (West London) – Greater London Enterprise Awards
- Most Creative Independent Copywriter 2024 (London) – UK Enterprise Awards
- Most Impactful VA Service Provider 2023 (SE England) – Influential Businesswoman Awards
- Best Creative Copywriting & VA Service Provider 2022 (West London) – Greater London Enterprise Awards
Each one gave me a boost, helped me reach new clients and confirmed I wasn’t completely bonkers for starting a business during a global meltdown.
The 5 W’s of a Great Press Release
Now, let’s talk about the humble press release—because guess who’s also going to be featured in her local paper? Yep – this girl.
When I received the WBA nomination from Angela De Souza, she was also kind enough to send me a press release template. Me being me, I also had to go Google how to write a compelling press release and here’s what I found.
The journalistic holy grail of The 5 W’s, for example:
- Who? Caroline Buist, founder of Above & Beyond VA, ADHD-friendly VA and Creative Copy Queen.
- What? Nominated for Businesswoman of the Year.
- Where? Colchester-based, serving brilliant weirdos (aka creatives) across the UK.
- When? The awards go down this December, globally and online.
- Why? For championing neurodivergent entrepreneurs and building a business that actually makes sense for their brains.
Simple. Clear. Journalist-friendly. And most importantly, it tells a story worth reading. If you’re ever writing your own PR blurb, start with the 5 W’s and make it snappy.
Making the Most of Award Nominations
So what do you do when you get nominated?
- Post about it everywhere. LinkedIn, Instagram, your nan’s Facebook group. Use graphics, behind-the-scenes stuff, and maybe a boomerang of you doing a happy dance.
- Tell your email list. (They’re your biggest cheerleaders.)
- Pop it in your email signature and bios.
- Don’t downplay it. This is your moment—own it without apology.
It’s not about being boastful; it’s about showing people what’s possible.
Check out this LinkedIn article from Angela De Souza, (CEO of Women’s Business Club and founder of the Women’s Business Awards) for some brilliant tips on making the most of an award nomination: LinkedIn
Beyond the Trophy: Free PR Goldmines
Let me tell you something I’ve learned: the magic happens when you use your wins as a springboard.
Because of past nominations and awards, I’ve been invited to speak at networking events, been interviewed on podcasts and collaborate on projects. None of those would’ve happened if I’d just said, “Oh that’s nice,” and moved on.
Here’s how you can do it too:
- Pitch yourself to podcasts with a juicy story or topic (award noms make great hooks).
- Say yes to speaking gigs, even if they scare you a bit (okay, a lot).
- Add “Award-Nominated” to your intro when networking.
Visibility brings opportunity. Opportunity brings growth. Growth brings more cake (I assume).
Wrapping It Up: Your Turn to Shine
So here we are. A bit chuffed, a bit sassy and a whole lot grateful.
Being nominated for Businesswoman of the Year is a huge honour, but it’s also a reminder that the work I do matters.
That showing up for neurodivergent creatives, creating content that connects, and building a business on your own terms is something to be proud of.
Thank you to everyone who’s supported me along the way—clients, cheerleaders and fellow weird and wonderful weirdos.
And if you’re sitting there thinking, “Could I ever be nominated for something like this?”
The answer is absolutely yes. 1000% yes. Apply. Nominate yourself. Tell your story. Take up space.
Because whether you win, place or just show up? You’re already ahead of the game.
Catch you on the virtual red carpet. Champagne in hand. Sparkles optional.