One of the many things that we are proud of here at the PA Forum is the sheer diversity of our members. We cover roles and positions of so many different types across so many different industries. From industrial organisations to the arts, virtual roles to 24/7 positions and one person virtual businesses to global organisations we bring together people from all walks of life. This means that the networking and collaboration opportunities are endless and it is a major part of why our members value being part of our community so much.
Member of the PA Awards Committee, Hannah Smith who works at the Royal Shakespeare Company as Executive Assistant to the Executive Director tells us about her experience of being involved in the PA Forum.
As a proud mum to teenagers, I’m learning to balance the demands of both family and a career I truly love. I work as the Executive Assistant to the Executive Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, a role that brings variety and joy. Working for a learning and education charity in the arts feels like a perfect fit, as my passion for the arts runs deep — I spent my youth immersed in amateur dramatics and even dreamt of becoming a television presenter! While that dream didn’t materialise, I’ve spent much of my career working in charitable organisations, as well as 5 years as a virtual assistant.
I first stumbled across the PA Forum in 2018 while working as a virtual assistant, and it immediately became a valuable community — my colleagues in many ways. That year, I came across a heated online debate questioning the validity of awards for PAs, with disparaging comments about what the role involves. Incensed, I stepped outside my comfort zone and self-nominated for the awards, supported by my then manager, who provided support and testimonials. The process was transformative and I was thrilled to win the Inspiration – Lead by Example Award in 2018. It profoundly impacted my confidence, shaping my career and instilling a deep appreciation for the recognition and validation these awards provide.
Joining the West Midlands PA Awards committee felt like a natural next step, and I was pleased to give my time to a cause so close to my heart. With over 20 years as an EA and the perspective of having been a nominee, I hope to bring valuable insight to the committee. Reward and recognition, especially in roles like ours, are crucial for morale and motivation. These awards celebrate the often unseen but vital contributions we make to our organisations. To anyone embarking on their year’s awards journey, congratulations! Whether you win or not, remember that someone saw your brilliance and wanted to celebrate it — or, if you nominated yourself, commend yourself for that courageous step. Embrace the process and enjoy the recognition you so richly deserve!
Hannah’s experience of the PA Forum and the West Midlands PA Awards is very similar to many of our members but the most important thing is to make sure it works for you. Every member has a unique story of their experience of being involved in our community so if you are thinking of joining, getting involved in the awards or just simply looking to expand your network of like-minded professionals in your industry, get in touch to find out how you can write your own version of your PA Forum journey.
Photo of Shakespeare’s statue by Tim Wildsmith on Unsplash