Conference News Supplements CN Agency Awards | Page 5

CN Agency Awards 5 Fay Sharpe, VP, BCD Meetings and Events Pioneer Award WINNER: Fay Sharpe, VP, BCD Meetings and Events ay Sharpe has been an inspiration to many in the events industry, with a wealth of experience and seemingly endless contacts. Sharpe sold her agency, Zibrant, to BCD Meetings and Events a few years ago, and she now has the role of vice president at the agency. However, it’s her work to champion female leaders in the events industry that stands her apart as a true pioneer. Fast Forward 15 is a programme for personal progression for women at every level in their career. The programme helps nurture female talent in the events and travel industries by developing an individual’s competencies and broadening their skills. Commenting on her win, she said: “I attended the new CN Agency Awards at the Café de Paris in London, an original format for an awards event and a lovely way to end the week. And better yet, it was at lunch time! “The organisers encapsulated a fun event the felt very special without making them drag on for too long, which can so easily happen. “You can imagine my surprise and delight when I was called on stage after an incredible video recorded by many of my industry colleagues and was awarded the Pioneer Award. “It’s a great honour to be recognised and especially from CN. When I set up Fast Forward 15, some five years ago, I had no idea the impact it might make on our industry, I’ve always tried to be a role model and am thankful that women and men in our sector are forward-thinking in supporting the initiative to develop the talent of the future. “A huge thank you to both Conference News and the wider events industry.” www.cnagencyawards.co.uk