WISH North East: The Power of Gratitude

In a world where headlines often highlight challenges, shortcomings, and the obstacles we face, it can be easy to overlook the extraordinary progress we make—both individually and as part of a collective. Yet, taking a step back to acknowledge and celebrate these achievements, and to express gratitude for them, is not just uplifting but transformative. Over the past year, the WISH NE community has provided constant reminders of the profound impact that gratitude, strong leadership, and a sense of unity can have on our lives and careers.

The journey of WISH NE this year has been marked by a series of inspiring events, thought-provoking discussions, and moments of genuine connection. Early in the year, we turned our attention to wellbeing, exploring the importance of looking after oneself in an increasingly demanding world. We learned that quality sleep is crucial for overall health and that “putting the day to bed” before trying to rest can lead to more restorative sleep. This simple yet powerful reminder underlined the vital role that self-care plays in sustaining our ability to support others and make a difference in our work.

A highlight of the year was our International Women’s Day event, a celebration of the remarkable women who drive our sector forward. Board members shared their personal and professional journeys, offering moving and inspiring stories that resonated with everyone present. These narratives were not only a testament to individual resilience and ambition but also a collective celebration of the progress made towards greater inclusion and representation in our field.

Another standout moment from the year was an insightful event led by Judith Common, who drew upon her extensive experience as an active board member to demystify the process of joining a board. Judith shared practical advice and personal anecdotes, illustrating the challenges and rewards of board service. Her candid reflections on navigating governance, contributing to strategic direction, and fostering inclusive decision-making provided invaluable guidance to members considering similar roles. By openly sharing her journey, Judith empowered attendees to recognise their own potential and inspired many to take the next step towards board membership, reinforcing the importance of bringing diverse voices and expertise to leadership positions.

More recently, our attention turned to the pressing issues facing our sector today. We tackled challenging topics such as homelessness, finance, urban design, social impact, and training and development. Each discussion reinforced the critical role these areas play in ensuring we deliver the very best for our customers and communities. Whether it was hearing sobering statistics about homelessness or considering how we can make our urban spaces safer and more inclusive, these conversations prompted us to reflect on our responsibilities and the power we have to effect change.

Throughout all these endeavours, one theme has shone through: community. As powerfully articulated by one of our speakers at the September event, “you can’t have community without unity.” This message resonated deeply, reminding us that our colleagues, friends, families, neighbours, and professional networks are the foundation upon which our success is built. The WISH NE board itself is a testament to this principle—a group of dedicated individuals juggling busy home lives and demanding careers, united by a shared commitment to making a difference. None of our achievements would be possible without the support and energy of the WISH NE community, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.

Gratitude, in this context, is far more than a personal virtue—it is a catalyst for organisational and societal transformation. By recognising and celebrating our achievements, both large and small, we create a culture where people feel valued, motivated, and empowered to contribute their best. Such an attitude strengthens teams, builds resilience, and serves as a wellspring of innovation. It encourages us to support one another, to lift each other up during difficult times, and to share in each other’s successes.

As we look to the future, it is vital that we carry forward these lessons. Let us remain thankful for what we have accomplished, celebrate the progress we continue to make, and harness this positive energy to drive further change. In our professional and personal lives alike, a spirit of gratitude opens doors, strengthens relationships, and helps us build a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.

Claire Bailey, WISH North East