At the Institute of Fundraising Convention I was awarded the Lifetime Contribution to Fundraising Award. WOW I was totally overcome – even gobsmacked. At the ripe young age of 26 I found myself as Director of Fundraising of the Order of St John (St John Ambulance and their Ophthalmic Hospital in Jerusalem). I really had not a clue what I should do to raise more money. It all worked out well when meeting other Fundraising Directors and sharing experiences; a group of us then decided to form the Institute. I have leant on it and learnt from it and been part of the IoF since the start. The IoF is now, rightly, a very strong voice so it was an exceptional honour to get this award, especially because I love my job to death (!). Fundraising is an amazing career and I hope you enjoy yours as much as I continue to enjoy mine!