Headline sponsor 2026: Standard Life
Previous award winner Micheala Hawkins shares how backing yourself can be one of the most rewarding steps you take. In this inspiring reflection, Micheala says that putting herself forward for the Professional Paraplanner Awards has helped develop her confidence, shape her career and enable her to support others in their own professional journeys.
I know a lot of people feel awkward about putting themselves forward for an award, but self-nomination really isn’t about arrogance or ego; it’s about self-belief.
We all work hard, and sometimes it takes opportunities like these to stop, reflect, and recognise what we’ve achieved.
I first nominated myself for Administrator of the Year in 2020 (with some encouragement from Aleks Sasin) and was delighted and honestly a bit shocked to win.
Since then, being highly commended again in 2024 and 2025 has reminded me how much confidence can grow from stepping outside your comfort zone.
The interview panels have always been lovely, genuinely interested in people and the stories behind their roles.
If Aleks had never encouraged me, I would never have nominated myself, which is why I like to encourage people at Navigatus, or anyone in the industry, to go for it.
I’ve met so many brilliant paraplanners and administrators through Navigatus and the wider profession who deserve recognition for their contribution, creativity, and commitment.
Self-nominating gives you the chance to share that impact and to celebrate the difference you make every day.
For me, entering these awards has been more than a professional highlight; it’s helped me develop my role and given me the confidence to move into other areas of the company.
I’d encourage anyone who’s considering it to take the leap. You never know what doors it might open, or how much your story could inspire someone else.
Main image: background, colour, alexander-grey-W7cPLHOa0eQ-unsplash
