Finalists named for the 2017 Suzy Spirit Awards
Seven people have been shortlisted for the 2017 Suzy Spirit Awards, following a record-number of nominations. For the first time, there are two categories – the Suzy Spirit Inspiration Award and the Suzy Spirit Rising Star Award.
The Suzy Spirit Inspiration Award nominees (LtoR): Camilla Swain, Emma Tweedie, Claire Foster and Polly Kennedy
Gorkana, in association with LEWIS, launched the Suzy Spirit Awards four years ago in memory of Suzy Ferguson, who worked for the PR agency and sadly passed away from bowel cancer in 2012.
They recognise those who have made a difference to others in the PR industry, and look to acknowledge individuals of exceptional character, principle and determination, rather than those who are just outstanding at their day-to-day jobs.
This year, the award introduced two new categories for 2017:
- The Suzy Spirit Inspiration Award – aimed at established PR and comms professionals who set a shining example through mentoring and championing others.
- The Suzy Spirit Rising Star Award, aimed at industry newcomers, who may only be at the beginning of their career, but already demonstrates Suzy’s qualities and characteristics in their everyday work.
The finalists for the 2017 Suzy Spirit Inspiration Award are:
- Camilla Swain, PR manager, Girlguiding
- Claire Foster, deputy head of news, Direct Line
- Emma Tweedie, director, Teacake Tuesday
- Polly Kennedy, director, APCO Worldwide
The finalists for the 2017 Suzy Spirit Rising Star Award are:
- Connor Mahon, account executive, FleishmanHillard Fishburn
- India Smyth, media relations manager, Barclays
- Euan Steedman, press officer, BBC
The Suzy Spirit Rising Star Award nominees (LtoR): Euan Steedman, Connor Mahon and India Smyth
Sally O’Neill, VP at LEWIS and member of the judging panel, said: “The judges were very impressed with the quality and dedication of those nominated.
“With the introduction of two awards this year, we have seen those at the start of their career and those with more experience not only inspiring colleagues at work, but also mentoring others and doing amazing things for the community.
The winners of the 2017 Suzy Ferguson Spirit Awards will be announced at a ceremony in London on 17th March.
The official charity for the awards is Bowel Cancer UK, which aims to save lives and improve the quality of life for all those affected by bowel cancer.
Last year the award went to Henry Playfoot, founder of Pitch Doctor and former strategy director at Claremont Comms, who was chosen from a shortlist of five.
Previous winners include Nicola Green, director of comms and reputation at O2, and Rosie Warin, CEO at Kin&Co.
