With love and gratitude (and an unfiltered video for you!)

When we were kids, my sister and I practised our “Miss Universe face” in the mirror—the mock-teary, overly dramatic award-winner look—just for fun.

Well…on Saturday night, I did it for real.

I was shocked, deeply grateful, and somewhat wobbly as I accepted the Educator of the Year 2025 award from Professional Speakers Australia. This award recognises speakers who consistently create high-quality, original learning experiences across diverse audiences and formats.

It reminded me why I do this work. Why I love it. And how grateful I am to be doing work I love with people I love, every single day.

In my speech, I thanked my clients first because none of this exists without you: the trust, the bookings, the rebookings, and the generous referrals.

But I did forget to say, “In no particular order…”

So yes, I’m in trouble at home. 😬

Let me fix it properly here.
Educator of the Year 2025 is a shared award (in no particular order!).

Shared with every client who’s backed me.
Shared with my family and friends, whose love holds me up.
Shared with mentors who have shaped my speaking.
Shared with the brilliant PSA community, where generosity, growth and real belonging are baked in.

And most of all shared with you — my readers. Thank you for reading, replying, commenting, cheering, and walking this path with me.

It turns out that the real award is getting to do work that matters.

The professional photos and video are still on their way, but in the meantime, here’s a slightly wobbly clip my friend captured on the night.

It’s chaotic and unfiltered — much like this moment.

And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

With love and lots of gratitude,
Yamini 💛