As 2025 draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what has undoubtedly been the most transformative year of my career.

After 20+ years leading communications for global mission-led organisations like Save the Children and the Humanitarian Leadership Academy, I decided to take “The Great Leap.” I moved from the security of in-house roles to founding VS Comms. It’s been a year of navigating new horizons, finding my voice, and—most importantly—giving back to the community that has given me so much.

Leading with Purpose: Boardroom to Brand Refresh

One of the most rewarding parts of my year hasn’t just been building my own business, but helping others build theirs. As a Trustee for CharityComms, I’ve had the privilege of acting as the Trustee Sponsor for our brand and website refresh.

Steering a project of this scale from a strategic level has been a masterclass in governance and vision. It’s a reminder that at the heart of every great organisation is a story that needs to be told clearly, inclusively, and authentically.

Lifting as I Climb: Mentoring & Community

I’ve always believed that leadership is about “lifting as you climb.” This year, I’ve dedicated time to mentoring across the industry, which has been as much a learning experience for me as it has been for my mentees:

• Women in PR: Supporting the next generation of female leaders.
• Taylor Bennett Foundation: Engaging in reverse mentoring to challenge my own perspectives and support diverse talent.
• CharityComms: Mentoring peers within the third sector.

To further anchor myself in the community, I joined the Asian Communications Network and Women in PR. These spaces are essential for meeting like-minded people who understand the unique challenges and joys of being a woman of colour in the communications industry.

Taking the Stage: Sharing Lessons in Inclusion and Strategy

Stepping out as an independent practitioner allowed me to share my expertise on some incredible platforms this year. Some of my personal highlights include:

• People Like Us x The Romans: It was an honour to speak at this event, celebrating diversity and the power of representation in our industry.
• CIPR Annual Conference: Joining the independent practitioner panel to discuss the future of our profession.
• Gallagher’s Digital Conference: Leading a workshop on Inclusive Communications for internal comms professionals—a topic I am deeply passionate about.

The Heart of it All: ‘The Comms Collective’

Amidst the networking and consulting, I launched the project I am most proud of: The Comms Collective Podcast.

I wanted to create a space for “Conversations in Purposeful Communications.” From discussing AI with Adeela Warley to humanitarian front lines with Ka Man Parkinson, the podcast has become a hub for the “hard-won” lessons we only get from the field. It’s been a joy to see it grow and to hear how these stories are resonating with you.

What 2025 Taught Me

This year has taught me that “Consultant” is more than a job title—it’s a commitment to being a strategic partner, a mentor, and a continuous learner.

To my clients, my podcast guests, my mentees, and my new networks: Thank you. You have made my first year in VS Comms more successful and fulfilling than I could ever have imagined.

Here’s to more impact, more inclusion, and more collective wisdom in 2026.