The ‘ordinary and everyday’ efforts mean so much more
THE Guernsey Press Pride of Guernsey awards allow islanders to appreciate those around us and to ‘think about what people are doing that makes our community the special place we love’.
Bailiff Richard McMahon has been a regular guest at the Pride of Guernsey ceremony and said that recognising people who stand out for all the right reasons had become an integral part of island life.
‘They are unsung heroes – those who are ordinary people, but are doing extraordinary things that we should all applaud and recognise,’ he said.
‘The Pride of Guernsey Awards allow us to focus on what lots of us take for granted. Being nominated for one of the awards gives recognition where it is due to those who do not seek recognition.’
The Bailiff described the five previous Pride of Guernsey award ceremonies as a ‘real pleasure’ to attend.
‘Every time, I’m remarkably impressed with just how many people get nominated and it’s wonderful what everyone who is nominated has actually done,’ he said.
He emphasised the importance of nominating people whose actions have made a difference. The more nominations received, the better.
‘I’d like to encourage as many people as possible to think of those who are deserving of recognition across the community.’
The positives from recognising a good customer experience, for example, were not always celebrated.
‘It’s not the sort of thing that people always think about recognising. It’s a great benefit to our community when we hear stories of people who wouldn’t necessarily be recognised for the work they do because people neglect it as ordinary and everyday.’
He praised everyone who has been nominated over the years and said that the judges will have a tough decision ahead of them.
‘It’s quite humbling to listen to the tales of the shortlisted nominees and I’m rather glad that I’m not one of the judges, because to choose between them would be very difficult.’
Lockdowns had been a challenge for many over the past 18 months, said the Bailiff, but there were also some benefits for the community.
‘People are able to focus more on the community aspect. #GuernseyTogether is really a recognition of what the community does.
‘There is a need to strengthen community spirit. People are touched when they are nominated. Here we can recognise those who go the extra mile.’
