The Career Changers Awards are dedicated to honoring individuals who have taken unconventional paths to make a positive impact on society through their remarkable journeys of self-realization. The Awards are a call to recognise the innovators, unsung heroes, inspirational authors, mental health advocates, philanthropists, and coaches of our era. People who have gone through a journey in life to find their path and had the courage to take action and as a consequence of that are making the world a better place.
Sports
Adam Sackett
“In 1999, I started teaching karate one night a week. Was that going to change my career at the time? No. But I really enjoyed it”.
Entrepreneur
Virginia Peterson
As a nurse, I couldn’t find a comfortable bra to wear for a 12-hour shift, so I designed my own. SWOOP has grown since then and continues to provide nurses the support they need.
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Author
Rick Bleiweiss
“My mantra is “It is never too late in life”. Betty Friedan said, “Aging is not lost youth, but a new stage of opportunity and strength”. And I just live by that”.
Coach
Carolyn Buck Luce
Courage comes from the (Latin) word “cor” which means heart, and it means to go forward with your heart in your mouth at times of doubt, fear, and uncertainty. So to be the leader you
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Well-being
Lindsay McDonell
“When I switched all those jobs, it was because I hadn’t found the right thing. It takes a little while to figure it out sometimes, but when you do, it’s worth it”.
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Innovator
Joe O’ Connor
The benefits of a shorter working week for employers are increased productivity, reduced burnt-out, and talent acquisition. On the other side, employees can live healthier and more fulfilling lives.
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Feeling inspired? Discover the previous winners!
The Career Changers Awards 2023 Winners
The Career Changers Awards 2022 Winners
The Career Changers Awards 2025
Applications are now closed. People interviewed in 2024 will compete for The Career Changers Awards 2025.
The Career Changers Awards 2026
Submit your story and get a chance to be featured in The Career Changers. Send your story to elisamartinig@thecareerchangers.com
How to submit your story
- Write in the subject of your email The Career Changers Awards and specify the category you want to apply for
- Tell us shortly the story of your career change ( for example I change from X to Y because…)
- Explain how your career change made the world a better place
- If possible quantify in numbers ( for example, how many people lives have you improved, are you providing a service or product that helps people to get a better life, are you protecting the environment, are you protecting animal rights or are you a teacher supporting vulnerable children…if yes how can you quantify that)?
Timeline
- Jan- Dec 2024: Collecting inspirational stories
- TBC 2025: Voting is open online
- TBC 2025: Winners are announced