As we step into a new year, it’s time to reflect on the journey that 2024 has been—filled with challenges, achievements, and unforgettable moments. For me, it was a year of resilience, rebuilding, and significant milestones in my Salesforce journey and community engagement.
Rebuilding After Storm Babet
At home, the year started with a focus on recovery, as we rebuilt our ground floor following the flooding caused by Storm Babet in October 2023. While the physical reconstruction was challenging, it reminded me of the importance of resilience and finding joy amidst adversity. One source of joy was continuing parkrun adventures with my 10-year-old daughter. Together, we travelled across the UK and even ventured to the Netherlands, where she completed her alphabet challenge at Zuiderpark—an experience we’ll cherish forever.
Becoming a Salesforce MVP: A Milestone Achievement
In February, I was honoured to be named a Salesforce MVP, a recognition of my contributions to the community. This was something I’d never expected, I don’t do what I do in the community for this recognition, but all the same it’s been amazing to join such a fantastic group of people who I’m learning so much from. This milestone set the stage for an incredible year of connection and learning.
Trailblazer Community Group Leadership
A major highlight of 2024 was continuing as a Trailblazer Community Group Leader. Working closely with the Salesforce Community Team, we transitioned the “Midlands Nonprofit User Group” to the “UK Nonprofit User Group – Virtual” This change reflected the group’s importance for attendees who cannot access face-to-face events in London or Edinburgh.
As part of this journey, I was nominated to the Salesforce Community Group Leader Advisory Board, where I’ll help shape the future of Trailblazer Community Groups. My advocacy focuses on ensuring virtual options remain a priority for those unable to attend in-person events—because virtual participation is far better than missing out altogether.
Being virtual also allowed me to bring on a co-leader. I was thrilled when Debbie Nevin, Systems Manager at Down’s Syndrome UK, agreed to join me. Together, we’ve been planning exciting events for 2025.
Outside of the usual Salesforce Community Group events, the UK Nonprofit User Group – Virtual also hosts:
- EMEA Nonprofit Ask Me Anything (AMA) Sessions: These monthly events brought together panellists from across the globe to answer questions and provide support to nonprofit Salesforce users. A heartfelt thank you to all our panellists and attendees—you’ve made these sessions a valuable resource for many.
- Bi-weekly Nonprofit Coffee Chats: These informal Thursday meetups provided a safe space for community members to connect, share stories, and occasionally chat about Salesforce. Hearing how much attendees value these chats has been heartwarming, and I’m committed to continuing them in 2025.
TrailblazerDX: Connecting with the Global Community
March saw me attending my first TrailblazerDX in San Francisco, where I had the privilege of presenting on the Trailblazer Community. The event was an inspiring experience, offering the opportunity to connect with Salesforce enthusiasts from around the globe. It was here that fellow MVP Kathy Waterworth and I decided to attend CzechDreamin—a decision that led to one of the best events of the year.
CzechDreamin: Volunteering and Community Engagement
In May, Kathy and I travelled to Prague for CzechDreamin. Not only was the event packed with valuable sessions and networking opportunities, but we also volunteered on the day, assisting with registration and session monitoring. This added a rewarding dimension to the experience, making it one of the most memorable European Salesforce events I’ve attended.
Leading at the Open Source Commons Sprint
In June I led the Salesforce Indicators team at the Open Source Commons Sprint. Although it meant cutting my family holiday in Wales short, the opportunity to collaborate on meaningful projects with passionate Trailblazers made it worthwhile, along with travelling on a London bus with an inflatable dinosaur – a sight to be seen! The month ended on a high note with World Tour London, where I presented on the Trailblazer Community, sharing insights and celebrating the power of collaboration.
London’s Calling: A Standout Event
July marked my return to London for London’s Calling, an event that holds a special place in my heart. As a volunteer at registration, I welcomed attendees and contributed to the event’s seamless execution. I also had the chance to present alongside Tracy Bingham on “Community as a Catalyst to Success,” exploring the transformative impact of community involvement.
Summer Travels and InspireEast
After a summer filled with client work and family adventures, my community event calendar concluded with InspireEast in Cambridge. True to its name, the event offered inspiration through a moving keynote, insightful sessions, and the chance to present twice—once on the Open Source Commons and again with Tracy Bingham on #becauseSalesforce. Hazledene Solutions also sponsored the Inspire East Community Award. Tracy and I were privileged to award it to the amazing Louise Lockie. Louise, thank you for everything you do for the community, we appreciate you more than you’ll ever know.
Business Growth and New Horizons
While 2024 wasn’t a year of major certification achievements (I added the AI Associate certification to my portfolio), it was a year of professional growth. I deepened my expertise in automation and Experience Cloud while expanding my business by hiring Yvonne Small. Together, we tackled projects ranging from FinDock payment solutions to data migrations, continuing to support nonprofit clients with their Salesforce journeys.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As 2025 begins, I’m excited for the opportunities ahead. I’ve already secured my flights and ticket for TrailblazerDX, where I’m looking forward to reconnecting with the global community—especially during the laid-back “day 0” activities. London’s Calling is also on my calendar, and I’m eagerly awaiting announcements for the London Sprints and World Tour to finalise my plans.
What’s Next?
2024 was a year of rebuilding, advocacy, and growth, and I’m excited to carry that momentum into 2025. Whether it’s leading and volunteering at events, connecting with the Trailblazer community, or tackling new nonprofit projects, I’m ready for what’s to come.
How are you planning to make the most of 2025? Let’s continue building and growing together!
Thanks to ChatGPT for helping me compile my notes and give me a basis for my blog article – and for the hero image!
