Two award nominations. One grateful heart!- by Edeje Onwude
3 October 2025
When I read the emails, telling me I’d been shortlisted as a finalist for not one, but two commsHERO Awards (“I fell into Comms” and “Unsung Hero“), I had to check twice that I wasn’t imagining it. Then I grinned and may have done a small dance in my car while waiting to pick the kids up from school.
I didn’t set out on this journey chasing recognition; I set out chasing connection. And to now be recognised in categories that celebrate both career pivots and the quiet-but-powerful ways we show up for others – that feels special.
Like many in IC, I didn’t start here. I spent 14 years in brand marketing before deciding to switch lanes. Some people call it “falling” into comms. For me, it felt more like jumping – feet first, arms wide, eyes squeezed shut – into a pool I hoped was deep enough to swim in.
It hasn’t been easy. But it’s been worth every stroke. From co-creating an IABC conference, to refreshing a mentoring programme that sparked 27% more matches, to co-founding a #CommsJobs community that has now grown to 600+ members in 4 months; every step has been fuelled by a belief that comms is about building bridges, not walls.
The Unsung Hero nod made me chuckle. I don’t think of myself as heroic, unless we’re talking about my ability to squeeze mentoring calls into Friday lunch breaks! But if “unsung” means showing up consistently, shining a light on others, and creating safe spaces where people feel seen and supported… then I’ll wear that badge proudly.
Because my favourite part of this work is pulling people together and watching sparks fly: ideas, collaborations, confidence. That energy is contagious and I’m happy to be patient zero.
These nominations aren’t just about me. They’re about possibility. They’re a reminder to anyone quietly wondering if it’s too late to shift gears, grow, or start again: it’s not.
Comms doesn’t have one entry route. Talent, curiosity, and purpose-driven passion can come from anywhere. And when you bring your whole self to this profession, people notice – sometimes in the form of a shiny finalist badge.
The winners will be announced in October, but whether I walk away with a trophy, I already feel like I’ve won. Recognition is wonderful, but the real prize is the community, the connections, and the chance to keep doing work that makes others feel seen.
And I’m only just getting started.
Edeje Onwude, Senior Communications professional