Gold Winner 2024 International Business Awards – Thought Leadership: Sue Blackwell

Wow! I’m still stunned two weeks on to have been recognised as the Gold Award winner by the Stevie International Business Awards.

On occasion awards appear out of the ether. When we enter awards, for DanceSyndrome or for Jen, it’s because we believe that sharing what we do with a wider audience enables and inspires other people to know and believe what’s possible.

To be recognised, internationally, for what I consider is simply doing what I’ve had to do as Jen’s mum, supporting and encouraging and enabling her to be the best she can be, feels a bit weird.

That being said, I know from what we’ve learnt over the past 15 years of DanceSyndrome, and the past 42 years with Jen, that what may seem a normal way of living and working for us isn’t always normal for others. This award, from what the judges have said, highlights our belief in the Art of the Possible. This IS available to everyone, but there’s still a long way to go until people believe and experience that truth.

Some of the judges comments:

Sue Blackwell’s leadership and advocacy for people with learning disabilities through DanceSyndrome have significantly impacted social perceptions and created meaningful opportunities. Her recognition and the innovative model she developed highlight her exceptional thought leadership.

Sue Blackwell’s pioneering work with DanceSyndrome is extraordinary. Her relentless advocacy and innovative approach have created significant opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities. The impressive achievements, including international recognition and impactful programs, highlight her thought leadership in promoting inclusion and equality. Sue’s dedication to challenging societal norms and providing platforms for people like her daughter Jen to shine is inspiring and deserving of the highest recognition.

Sue and Jen’s story is a testament to resilience and advocacy, with their efforts leading to tangible change in promoting inclusivity and empowerment for individuals with learning disabilities. Their impact extends beyond their industry, resonating with broader societal issues of inclusion and human rights. Unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for marginalized communities. Congratulations!

These words “joy, passion, hope, positivity, knowledge ” are not just words but the way of life. Amazing initiative.

Like all awards, it feels like it doesn’t tell the whole story as we wouldn’t be here without Jen. And we certainly wouldn’t be where we all are today, living our lives independently, without the support of Donna and the carer team, the DanceSyndrome family, who have also won a Gold Stevie Award as the Organisation of the Year (non-profit, small). Another HUGE recognition of all they do.

Every strand is intertwined. It’s all connected. We wouldn’t be where we are without each other. I couldn’t have advocated for Jen without the firm foundation of love and support that Malcolm and I have. It’s a whole team effort and I can’t accept this award without acknowledging everyone along the way who has made our journey possible.

Whilst we’ve been buffeted around the seas of the Irish Sea this month, spending time with both Jen and Anthony and his family, it still amazes me what we’ve achieved from taking one step at a time.

I guess that’s why I’m being encouraged to share that I’m writing The Art of the Possible, a book of hope, optimism and opportunity. It’s on it’s way, just like with everything else we do – one step at a time.

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Sue Blackwell was named the winner of a Gold Stevie® Award in the Thought Leader (non-profit & governement) category in The 21st Annual International Business Awards® on 13th August 2024.

DanceSyndrome were named the winner of a Gold Stevie® Award in the Organisation (non-profit & governement small) category.

The International Business Awards are the world’s premier business awards program. All individuals and organizations worldwide – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small – are eligible to submit nominations. The 2024 IBAs received entries from organizations in 62 nations and territories.

More than 3,600 nominations from organizations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories, including Company of the Year, Marketing Campaign of the Year, Best New Product or Service of the Year, Startup of the Year, Corporate Social Responsibility Program of the Year, and Executive of the Year, among others.