Nicola Fleet-Milne on celebrating the legacy and future of young professionals
Welcome to our latest blog post, where we dive into the enriching world of young professionals with insights from the latest episode of the Future Faces Podcast.
Hosted by the Future Faces Chamber of Commerce manager, Sophie Poduval-Morrell, the podcast celebrated 25 incredible years of the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year (BYPY) awards.
Today's feature highlights a conversation with Nicola Fleet-Milne, a formidable champion for BYPY and a passionate advocate for Birmingham.
Celebrating 25 Years of BYPY
The BYPY awards are a pinnacle event for young professionals across the Greater Birmingham region, celebrating achievements and contributions that shape the future of the community. First launched under the BPS Network, which later merged with Birmingham Future to create the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards, these awards have continually spotlighted the talents and impacts of emerging leaders in the area.
Meet Nicola Fleet-Milne
Nicola Fleet-Milne is the founder of FleetMilne, a residential property agency, and a huge supporter of anything related to Birmingham’s progress. Her journey with BYPY began back in 2006, leaving a significant mark on her career path and establishing her as a key figure in the business community.
A Journey of Inspiration and Networking
Nicola reminisced about her first experience with the BYPY awards, which inspired her to return the following year—not just as an attendee but as an award winner. Her story of inspiration is a testament to how networking and community engagement can pave the way for personal and professional growth. By participating in BYPY events, Nicola was introduced to influential leaders and decision-makers, broadening her horizons and creating a pathway that enhanced her career.
The Impact of Winning a BYPY Award
Winning a prestigious BYPY category award was more than a personal accolade for Nicola; it was a springboard into increased responsibility as a city ambassador. It expanded her network, increased her visibility among senior professionals, and honed her public speaking skills. Her active involvement in Birmingham's community after receiving the award illustrates how such achievements can significantly catalyze a person's career and confidence.
Networking: Breaking Down the Barriers
The podcast also shed light on the importance of networking, a term that often draws mixed reactions. Nicola emphasized reframing networking as simply meeting new people and forming genuine connections. Whether you're a newcomer or a long-time resident, Birmingham offers a welcoming environment where your professional and personal connections can simultaneously grow.
A Call to Action for Young Professionals
Sophie and Nicola passionately discussed the importance of young professionals stepping out of their comfort zones to apply for awards like BYPY. It's about more than just recognition—it’s about personal growth, contributing to the city, and starting dialogues that drive change. Nicola's advice for young professionals is simple yet profound: be brave, articulate your aspirations, and embrace opportunities to grow, learn, and lead.
Looking Forward: The Future of BYPY
As we celebrate 25 years of the BYPY awards, we are reminded of its colossal impact on shaping young leaders who are now at the helm of corporations and have endlessly contributed to Birmingham's recognition as a vibrant city of opportunity. This celebration marks not just the history but the incredible future that lies ahead for all young professionals in Birmingham.
This podcast episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and guidance, serving as a timely reminder of the power of community-oriented awards like the BYPY in shaping the futures of young professionals. To hear more inspiring stories like Nicola's, tune in to The Future Faces Podcast available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms.
Stay Connected
Stay in touch with us for more insights, inspiration, and updates by following us on Instagram @ffchamber or connecting with us on LinkedIn. Engage with Nicola Fleet-Milne on LinkedIn. to explore more about her experiences and insights into the world of young professionals.
Listen to the full episode below: