Hello!
I’m thrilled to share some truly incredible news: I well more so Khandie Photography, have been shortlisted for Inspiration of the Year at the British Ex-Forces Business Awards 2024! Can you believe it? I can hardly believe it myself! It’s such an honour to be recognised alongside so many amazing individuals who have served our country and continue to inspire in the business world. Ok that sounds cheesy but I do mean it.
But wait, there’s more!
Just when I thought things couldn’t get any better, I received another notification—I’ve also been shortlisted as a finalist for Carer of The Year for the BBC Make A Difference Awards. I’m absolutely over the moon and utterly humbled by these acknowledgments. It’s been quite the journey, and I’m so grateful for all the support from my incredible community here in Northamptonshire. Whats more is I have no clue who or for what exactly I was nominated for.
Now, let’s rewind a bit and talk about what I’ve been up to lately. Many of you might know that teaching photography is a true passion of mine. One of the most rewarding parts of my work is teaching at Headway, a wonderful centre dedicated to supporting adults with traumatic brain injuries. Seeing the joy and sense of accomplishment on their faces as they master the art of photography is beyond fulfilling. Especially as the students have their first magazine article sharing their work published soon.
I also have the privilege of working with various other groups. Recently, I’ve been involved with The CE Academy, an alternative education provider for young people who have been permanently excluded from school, are dual registered, or are school-aged parents. Sharing my love for photography with these young minds has been incredibly inspiring. They bring such unique perspectives and creativity to the table!
For those of you who may not know, I also volunteer with Remember My Baby, a charity that offers remembrance photography to parents experiencing the loss of their baby. I’ve been doing this for several years now, and it remains one of the most meaningful aspects of my work. Providing families with these precious memories during such a difficult time is a profound honor.
And if that wasn’t enough, I recently had the opportunity to speak at The Photography and Video Show at the NEC Birmingham. What a fantastic experience! Sharing my knowledge and connecting with fellow photography enthusiasts was just brilliant. I also often teach at numerous events and conduct online classes, spreading the love for photography far and wide.
So, here I am, pinching myself as I reflect on this whirlwind of events. Being shortlisted for these prestigious awards is truly the cherry on top. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my family, friends, and the incredible community of Northamptonshire and beyond who have worked with me, shared my work and just been there.
Thank you all for being part of this journey with me. Whether you’ve attended one of my classes, supported my volunteer efforts, or simply cheered me on from afar, your support means the world to me. Here’s to continuing this journey together, creating, inspiring, and making a difference one photograph at a time.
With heartfelt gratitude and a sprinkle of humour (because we all need a good laugh),
