Last summer, I was awarded the SAIL Award (Student Advancing in Learning) at the annual Wave Awards. The SAIL Awards is bestowed upon a post-secondary student in communication, marketing or public relations studies who demonstrates excellence, collaborates well and shows promise. As a co-op student, I was very honoured and touched to be nominated by my peers and was of course, washed with waves of emotions when I won.
Being new to the profession and the IABC community, I was thrilled to acclaim the award. It turned out to be the ‘pat-on-the-back’ I needed to empower myself as I embark on my professional development.
Receiving the SAIL Award gave me a new sense of self-perception and confidence. It meant a lot to be getting recognition from my peers and professionals in the field. While it was very humbling to hear the praises, the award gave me time to look back at my accomplishments in a thoughtful way. This process of reflection helped me understand the impact and scope of my work to refocus and empower my future efforts.
While the positive effects of receiving the award are intangible, it is also important for us to give recognition. Nominating a peer who has shown up and continue to be influential in the field will support and encourage their journey and growth for their professional advancement.
Regardless of title or age, hard work and excellence should be commemorated and acknowledged. The Wave Awards give us the opportunity to celebrate the communicators in the chapter, who have gone above and beyond to contribute to organizations, the community, the chapter, and the profession.
Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned communicator, nominating somebody you know is a great way to let them know that you appreciate and take notice of their hard work!
Find out more on how to nominate an IABC member for the Wave Awards.
