I’m incredibly proud to share that one of my learners, Oliver Braid CMgr MCMI, has been shortlisted for Student of the Year at the CMI Awards of Excellence 2025.
This is a significant national recognition from the Chartered Management Institute, and one that is richly deserved.
Oliver’s nomination reflects not just academic achievement, but something far more important: the consistent application of learning in practice, particularly during periods of uncertainty, challenge, and change.
A Journey defined by commitment and impact
Oliver’s learning journey with TFL Education has been both extensive and deeply purposeful. Over time, he has successfully completed:
✅ CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice
✅ CMI Level 7 Certificate in Leadership Coaching and Mentoring
✅ CMI Level 7 Award in Strategic Approaches to Mental Health and Wellbeing
✅ CMI Level 7 Award in Strategic Approaches to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
✅ Chartered Manager (CMgr) status
Each qualification was approached not as a box-ticking exercise, but as an opportunity to think more deeply, lead more ethically, and create meaningful impact for others.
That depth of engagement is exactly what CMI seeks to recognise through its Awards of Excellence.
Leadership in practice, not theory
What stands out most about Oliver is how thoughtfully he connects theory to real-world leadership. His reflection, shared by CMI as part of the shortlist, captures this perfectly:
“Winning this award would feel like meaningful recognition of how I’ve applied learning in practice: to grow as a leader, and to support others through sustained periods of significant uncertainty and change.”
This mindset, learning for impact, not just accreditation, is the hallmark of a true professional leader.
Whether exploring strategic leadership, coaching conversations, wellbeing, or inclusion, Oliver consistently demonstrated:
✅ Intellectual rigour
✅ Strong ethical awareness
✅ A genuine commitment to supporting others
✅ The courage to challenge assumptions and think systemically
These are exactly the qualities that Chartered status represents.
Why this matters
Being shortlisted for CMI Student of the Year places Oliver among the very best learners across the UK and internationally. It is recognition from the professional body that sets the gold standard for management and leadership.
For me, as a founder and independent provider, this moment also reinforces something I deeply believe:
When learners are supported personally, challenged appropriately, and trusted to apply learning in their own context, excellence follows.
Oliver’s success is a powerful example of what is possible through focused study, reflective practice, and a genuine commitment to professional growth.
Congratulations, Oliver
Oliver, this recognition is thoroughly deserved. It has been a privilege to support your journey and to witness your development as a strategic, values-led leader.
Whatever the final outcome, being shortlisted is already a major achievement, and one that speaks volumes about your dedication, professionalism, and impact.
Congratulations on this outstanding recognition from CMI.
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