As I near the end of my AHP Careers Fellowship, funded by NHS Education for Scotland (NES), I’ve found myself reflecting on the incredible journey this past year has been. One of the most meaningful moments came recently, when I had the opportunity to present at our national Celebration Event via a recorded webinar—an event that brought together 88 live attendees from across the country.
This wasn’t just a presentation; it was a culmination. A chance to share not only the outcomes of my project but also the personal and professional growth that has come with it.
Standing (virtually) in front of a national audience, I felt a deep sense of pride—not just in the work I’ve done, but in the collective spirit of innovation and collaboration that this Fellowship has fostered.
Earlier this year, I had the privilege of presenting to over 400 people in an NHS-hosted webinar, where I shared updates on my project and some early reflections. That experience was both exhilarating and humbling. It reminded me of the power of storytelling in healthcare—how sharing our journeys can inspire, connect, and drive change.
You can read more about that earlier presentation here: OT Shares Fellowship Project Update to 400 People in NHS Webinar
This latest webinar felt different. It was more than an update—it was a celebration. A chance to pause and acknowledge the learning, the challenges, the unexpected turns, and the moments of clarity. I spoke about the impact of the Fellowship on my career, the insights I’ve gained into AHP leadership, and the importance of creating space for reflection and growth in our busy professional lives.
What stood out most to me was the sense of community. Even through a screen, I could feel the support and encouragement from colleagues, mentors, and fellow Fellows. It reminded me that while our projects may be individual, our progress is collective.
As I look ahead, I’m excited to carry forward the lessons of this year—about courage, curiosity, and the value of stepping into the unknown. I’m deeply grateful to NES for this opportunity, and to everyone who has supported me along the way.
Here’s to continuing the conversation, sharing our stories, and shaping the future of AHP careers—together.
Of course, no great achievement is complete without a reward—so I celebrated the only way I know how: with a croissant so good it could’ve had its own keynote slot.
