Working Mother Recognised at the Business Book Awards

“How do you feel about winning your award for Working Mother, Rachel?”

Nine words. None of them particularly complex in isolation, but when put together in a question, they cause me to really pause and think.

The initial response was “humbled” which I then decided to replace with “surprised”, followed by “shocked” and “warm” and “grateful”.

Right now, I’ve settled on “privileged”.

Why?

Because it’s a privilege to be exposed to experiences that are worth writing about. It’s a privilege to do the work I do, to hear the stories of the incredible people I support.

It’s also a real privilege to have had the chance to acquire the skills and knowledge to translate these experiences into words, that can then be written down.

And guess what?

It’s a privilege to have people around me to encourage, champion and motivate me. To have a publisher who saw the value of my idea, or my manuscript, and to have judges who could see the significance of the words I placed on the pages of my book.

So that’s how I feel about ‘Working Mother’ receiving a Highly Commended award in the Work and Life category at the 2025 Business Book Awards last week. And to be recognised in this way, among so many powerful titles that are shaping business thinking and the human experience, is humbling, inspiring and a real privilege.

If you’re not aware of the Business book Awards I recommend you check them out. They have grown to become a significant and influential platform for recognising works that not only speak to technical aspects of business but also engage with the human side of our working world.

For me, this is why being judged in the Work and Life category was especially important. Because it shines a spotlight on books that bridge professional responsibilities with the realities of family, wellbeing, and identity. To have Working Mother acknowledged among them, and singled out for particular commendation, feels like a strong affirmation that the conversations it aims to open are relevant, necessary, and resonating with people. 

So, thank you to the whole Business Book Awards team and the judges for creating a vehicle for recognition and dialogue. Your work ensures that authors like me, and our ideas can be seen, celebrated, and amplified. And it means so much to me to have been part of this year’s community of impressive thinkers and writers. 

I want to acknowledge and congratulate the other shortlisted authors across the awards. Each book pushes forward our understanding of work, leadership, and life in a changing world. These books challenge our thinking, our choices and our perspectives.  To be in such company is a privilege and it’s great motivation to keep contributing to these powerful conversations. 

Writing Working Mother was a personal and professional journey - as you will know if you’ve glanced at the pages.

It came from my own lived experience, from countless conversations, and from the powerful stories of others who have navigated careers while raising families. I hope those whose voices contributed to the book can sense themselves in the pages. Because you are very much present. And so, the award is for you too. Seeing your voices recognised feels like a step towards making it easier for more people to combine ambition and basic human care without compromise. 

Finally, my gratitude goes to everyone who has read Working Mother, shared it, bought it for a friend, colleague, loved one, and for those who have told me how it resonated with them. Being recognised is a reminder that the conversation is only just beginning, and I am excited to continue it, and see where it takes us.