FINAL CURTAIN CALL 2017

“The key question to keep asking is; are you spending your time on the right things? Because time is all you have.” Randy Pausch

2017 has been an extraordinary year in my professional life. Today a friend sent me this quote from Randy Pausch’s LAST LECTURE, and it’s so true - time is all we have. At the end of 2016 I knew it was time to make a change, to say “Yes!” to new opportunities and possibilities and that's exactly what happened this year.

In January, I had the pleasure of being asked to join London's Southbank Centre to lead a national participation programme and produce an incredible theatre show called MOTHER TONGUES FROM FARTHER LANDS. This show was a finalist for BEST STAGE PRODUCTION at ITV's Asian Media Awards 2017.

I launched a new career as an independent Producer and my first live art installation - JAMBO CINEMA at Wolverhampton Art Gallery - received national media coverage and a primetime ITV news feature. I was invited to be a guest speaker and ambassador for live art events including the prestigious Selfridges’ annual LIVE & LOUD festival. I also became a Museums Future Proof fellow at a wonderful organisation called the Arts Marketing Association.

It was a honour to be Highly Commended by the Asian Woman of Achievement Awards 2017 for my work with Asian elders and vulnerable adults. The cherry on the cake was a special invitation to 10 Downing Street. This was my “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity to meet with the Prime Minister and talk about my work as a Theatre Producer how the arts is enriching the lives of ordinary people.

Now, after celebrating a milestone birthday, I’m entering a new decade with hope, vitality and with optimism about making a positive impact in the creative sector and within our communities through the power of art.

Looking back, it's simply been an incredible year! We don't achieve success on our own and I have had many colleagues, friends and family supporting me to achieve this success. Thank you to everyone who has shared my journey so far and I hope the road is long, fruitful and full of adventure!

Wishing all my readers a wonderful 2018 and a blessed year ahead, with time enough to make the changes you want to see in your life.