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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">Professor Sonia Cottom, CEO of Pain Association
Scotland, has been acknowledged for her achievements in the CEO Monthly 2023
CEO of the Year Awards. <a href="https://www.ceo-review.com/">CEO Monthly</a>, part of AI Global Media, announced this recognition as part of their annual awards program, which aims to celebrate individuals pushing the boundaries in their industries and leading their companies to exceptional success.The awards, now in their third year, evaluates nominees based on various criteria, including company performance, industry expertise, previous accolades, and client testimonials. <a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/sonia-cottom">Sonia Cottom</a> was awarded the title "Self-Management Training CEO of the Year 2023 - Scotland," reflecting her dedication to continuous growth, improvement, and innovation within the field of chronic pain management.<a href="https://painassociation.co.uk/">Pain Association Scotland</a> has been instrumental in providing self-management models of community-based training and education programs for individuals burdened with chronic pain, their families, and caregivers. Established in 1988 initially in Edinburgh, the Association has evolved under Cottom's leadership to provide essential services across Scotland and recently expanding into England.Commenting on her award, Cottom says, "I am delighted to be acknowledged with this award. Patients are at the very heart of our service model and what we do - to ensure they are provided with the best opportunity in empowering them to be able to manage their chronic pain. I therefore share this award with each dedicated individual within our organisation who contributes to our success, and together we will continue to provide added value and leading the Association in local and national health strategies and creating patient engagement and improving patient pathways."Over the past decade, Cottom has navigated the organisation through significant changes, aligning it with integrated models of Health and Social Care delivery. Her strategic vision and adept management skills have been pivotal in addressing challenges posed by national clinical strategies and policies. Through collaborative efforts with NHS Boards, third-sector organisations, universities, and the Scottish Government, Cottom has positioned Pain Association Scotland as a trusted service provider, contributing valuable evidence on the benefits of self-management for chronic pain patients.The organisation now serves approximately 4,500 people annually through intensive self-management courses and local monthly self-management groups.Key data produced by the association highlights impressive outcomes, including a 73% reduction in GP visits for patients, a 61% decrease in flare-ups, and a remarkable 93% improvement in the quality of life for service users. Reflecting on her role with the Association, Cottom continues, "Leading our team and the organisation has been both challenging and rewarding at the same time which I am sure this is a statement which many leaders will resonate with. Being director of the Association has meant far more than ensuring services are delivered within agreed service level agreements for the benefit of patients. It is because of the wider implications in understanding the overall aims and needs both of local government and local health and social care services that we are able to tailor our delivery to suit these needs."In addition to her role as CEO, Cottom has actively engaged with national health strategies and collaborated with NHS Boards, universities, and the Scottish Government. Her involvement in government consultations, parliamentary debates, and national advisory groups reflects her commitment to shaping policies that recognise chronic pain as a national priority.Cottom has been recognised as a Visiting Professor at York St John University, contributing to the education and understanding of pain management. She has also played a crucial role in the establishment of a patient referral pathway from both Primary and Secondary Care, utilising innovative electronic referral systems to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery.



















In addition to receiving
the CEO of the Year award, Cottom recently garnered a nomination for the <a href="https://www.bwsltd.co.uk/">Business Women Scotland</a> Awards, securing a place in the final 100
shortlist.&nbsp; </div>

Professor Sonia Cottom, CEO of Pain Association Scotland, has been acknowledged for her achievements in the CEO Monthly 2023 CEO of the Year Awards.

Pain Association Scotland CEO recognised in CEO Monthly Awards

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">In a remarkable achievement, competing against more than 500 other nominations, <a href="https://ecmltd.co.uk/">Environmental Crop Management</a> (ECM) have added to their collection of International Green Apple Awards, earning acclaim as one of the greenest companies globally.The International Green Apple Environment Awards is an annual international campaign to recognise, reward and promote environmental best practice globally. Headed by non-profit venture <a href="https://www.thegreenorganisation.info/">The Green Organisation</a> since its establishment in 1994, the awards have become established among the most popular and well-known environmental campaigns worldwide.ECM's 2023 accolade,&nbsp;recognises their outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability and innovative agricultural practices.&nbsp;The noteworthy project, focused on recovering 30 acres of salt-polluted land and transforming it into farmland complete with a nature reserve, earned the organisation three Green Apples in the 2023 awards.The award ceremony took place at the Houses of Parliament in London on 20th November, where ECM managing director, <a href="https://www.leaderscouncil.co.uk/members/peter-clare">Peter Clare</a>, was presented with a prestigious trophy and certificate.In addition to the trophy and certificate, ECM's achievement comes with an invitation to accept Green World Ambassador status. This coveted recognition includes the publication of ECM's winning paper in The Green Book, a leading international reference work on environmental best practices. The publication provides a platform for ECM to share its success story, enabling others worldwide to emulate their environmentally friendly strategies and learn from their accomplishments.</div>

In a remarkable achievement, Environmental Crop Management (ECM) have added to their collection of International Green Apple Awards, earning acclaim as one of the greenest companies globally.

Environmental Crop Management  receives 2023 International Green Apple Environment Awards

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">In a significant move that marks a new era in the empowerment and community engagement sector, <a href="www.flyingkite.co">Flying Kite</a> is all set to unveil its unique membership community in Covent Garden on November 28th, 2023. This launch is not just an introduction of a new company to London's vibrant landscape but a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for individuals aiming to reach their full potential.Empowerment at Its CoreAt its heart, Flying Kite is more than just a company; it's a confluence of retail, entertainment, education, and fintech, all driven by a powerful mission to empower and uplift. "Welcome to Flying Kite," says Founder Gerard John, "We are here not just to create a metaverse community but to foster a movement where every individual can learn, grow, and connect with like-minded people. Our diverse range of programs and resources are tailored to support and guide our members every step of the way."A Multifaceted Platform for Growth and ConnectionFlying Kite's unique approach combines various elements:<ol><li>Retail: Offering a curated selection of products, Flying Kite aims to cater to the unique tastes and needs of its members, providing both quality and value.</li><li>Entertainment: With a wide range of content spanning movies to interactive gaming, Flying Kite ensures entertainment for every family member.</li><li>Education: The commitment to lifelong learning is evident in their educational programs, workshops, and resources, empowering individuals across all age groups.</li><li>Fintech: Beyond products and services, Flying Kite focuses on financial empowerment, helping members make informed decisions and manage their finances effectively.</li></ol>A Community-Centric ApproachWhat truly sets Flying Kite apart is its community-centric approach. It's a platform designed to bring people from diverse backgrounds together, fostering belonging and collaboration. This approach is crucial in building stronger, more inclusive communities.Innovation and Social ImpactInnovation is at the forefront of Flying Kite's mission. By integrating technological advancements, they enhance the member experience across retail, entertainment, education, and finance. Furthermore, their commitment to social impact is evident as a portion of their proceeds is dedicated to uplifting underserved communities.Join the Empowerment MovementAs Flying Kite prepares for its grand launch in Covent Garden, it extends an invitation to everyone who believes in empowerment, community, and progress. "Join us on this exciting journey of empowerment. Become a member today and experience the true potential of collaboration and progress," urges Gerard John.With its holistic approach to empowerment, community building, and innovation, Flying Kite is not just launching a metaverse platform; it's spearheading a movement. As they say, "Empower Communities. Enrich Lives. Together, we thrive." The Covent Garden event on November 28th, 2023, is just the beginning of this transformative journey.</div>

Flying Kite Launches new membership metaverse 

Flying Kite Soars into the Future with Its Launch in Covent Garden

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">Former
world footballer of the year Andriy Shevchenko, alongside compatriot Oleksandr
Zinchenko, has spearheaded the <a href="https://www.cherwell-college.co.uk/stories/latest-stories-from-campus/premier-football-star-supports-oxbridge-foundation">launch of the Oxbridge Foundation</a>, a charity
dedicated to funding education for Ukrainian students affected by the ongoing
conflict.The foundation aims to provide up to 20 scholarships for academically gifted individuals aged 17 to 19, whose education has been disrupted by the war. 

<a href="https://www.cherwell-college.co.uk/oxbridge-foundation">The Oxbridge Foundation</a> was established by Stephen and Helen Clarke in the Spring of 2023 in collaboration with Cherwell College Oxford, the University of California, Football for Ukraine, Top Five Management, and the Bush Tennis Center. 

Mr Clarke is a former Diplomat and First Secretary for the British Government in Ukraine and is now Principal of Cherwell College Oxford. His wife Helen was born in Ukraine and is Vice Principal of Cherwell College.

The Foundation plans to fund one-year intensive programs consisting of A-level studies, complemented by innovation and entrepreneurship courses and camps in both Oxford and California. This holistic approach aims to empower the next generation of Ukrainian leaders and rebuild educational opportunities impacted by the conflict.

Andriy Shevchenko, Ukraine's all-time leading goal scorer and former AC Milan and Chelsea forward, expressed his commitment to the cause, saying, “Supporting the educational development of young people is essential to empowering the next generation.

“It is vital as part of our united efforts to re-build Ukraine and help our people. By nurturing their talent and investing in their futures, the work of the Oxbridge Foundation will have a fundamental impact on the lives of these students, their families, and communities.

Founder and Trustee of the Foundation, <a href="https://www.leaderscouncil.co.uk/members/stephen-clarke">Stephen Clarke</a>, said: “The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has affected the educational opportunities of so many bright, young Ukrainian people.

"We hope through the work of our foundation, we will empower them to continue their studies and restore their learning and development opportunities.”

To raise funds and awareness, the foundation will host a Gala Dinner at Blenheim Palace on March 2, 2024. The event aims to garner support for the initiative and ensure the success of their ongoing efforts to provide scholarships and educational opportunities for Ukrainian students.</div>

Former world footballer of the year Andriy Shevchenko, alongside compatriot Oleksandr Zinchenko, has spearheaded the launch of the Oxbridge Foundation, a charity dedicated to funding education for Ukrainian students affected by the ongoing conflict. 

Richard Gwilliam

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