When Was the Last Time You Invested in You

Not long ago, one of our community members said something that really stayed with me.

“I’ve lost count of how many applications I’ve submitted. I know I’m good at what I do, but after every rejection, I can’t help but wonder if I’m missing something.”

Perhaps you’ve had that thought too.

Across LinkedIn, the green “Open to Work” banner has become a familiar sight. Experienced HR professionals with years of expertise are finding themselves competing in an increasingly crowded market. LinkedIn’s latest research found that more than half of professionals are looking for a new role, while 65% say finding a job has become more difficult because of increased competition. Almost 80% admit they don’t feel fully prepared for today’s job market.

If that’s your reality, let me remind you of one thing.

You are not your last rejection.

Sometimes, it’s not another application that changes your career.

It’s one conversation.

One introduction.

One recruiter who sees your potential.

One mentor who challenges you to think differently.

One room full of people who are willing to open doors for you.

That is exactly why we created the BWHR 6th Annual Networking Conference.

Yes, you’ll hear from inspiring speakers and gain practical insights into the future of HR. You’ll leave with new ideas, fresh perspectives and the confidence to lead in an ever-changing profession.

But perhaps more importantly, you’ll be in a room filled with people who understand your journey.

The relationships you build over two days could become the introductions that lead to your next opportunity.

We’re also incredibly excited to welcome The Bukola Group as our Official Recruitment Partner for this year’s conference.

On 24 September, their recruitment specialists will be on-site, not simply to talk about recruitment, but to work with you. 

This isn’t about collecting business cards.

It’s about investing in yourself.

Because the most successful careers aren’t built by waiting for opportunities to appear. They’re built by continuously learning, expanding your network and putting yourself in rooms where opportunities naturally happen.

If you’ve been wondering whether this year’s conference is worth attending, let me leave you with this thought:

What if the conversation that changes your career is waiting for you on 24 September?

Don’t let another opportunity pass you by.

Join us at the BWHR 6th Annual Networking Conference on 23–24 September. Upskill yourself. Build meaningful connections. Meet recruiters. Learn from industry leaders. Take practical steps towards your next career move.

Because your next opportunity may not begin with another application.

It may begin with one conversation.

MEET OUR SPEAKER

Hannah Awonuga is the Founder & CEO of The Inclusive Foundations Programme, a culture consultancy helping high-growth organisations build inclusive workplaces that drive innovation, engagement, and business performance.

An award-winning cultural inclusion leader with over 20 years of experience, Hannah has held senior leadership roles at Barclays, Knight Frank, and Progress Together, where she has led large-scale culture and inclusion strategies. She is also a member of the Grants and Impact Committee at LandAid.

Recognised as one of HR Magazine’s Top 25 Most Influential DEI Practitioners and among the 2025 Top 20 DEI Experts in the UK, Hannah is a trusted advisor, keynote speaker, and facilitator.

Through her work, she helps leaders transform organisational culture into a strategic advantage while championing equity, representation, and inclusive leadership.