When you first start an apprenticeship, it’s easy to feel like you’re never quite good enough, fast enough, or experienced enough. That’s been me for much of my journey so far, always chasing that feeling of “am I doing this right?” But sometimes, life throws you a moment that stops you in your tracks. A moment so overwhelming that you realise just how far you’ve come. Last night was one of those moments for me.

When I first joined Purple Frog Systems, I was just another girl stepping into the world of marketing, social media, and events. Honestly, I was a wildcard… It could have gone one of two ways. But here I am, just over a year later, looking back on experiences I never thought I’d have.

I’ve been given opportunities that still blow my mind: travelling to places like Stockholm and Orlando, helping to run events like FabFest in Birmingham (which, for some reason, always seems to land on the same day as the awards!), and even open events at FrogPlex. Each of these moments has shaped me, challenged me, and made me grow in ways I couldn’t have imagined when I started out.

Charlie-Mae sitting in front of a large Gartner sign inside a modern conference venue, wearing a black outfit and event badge. The sign is surrounded by green plants, and a digital screen with colorful icons is visible above.

Group photo of five Purple Frog Systems employees—Annabel, Charlie-Mae, Hollie, Laura-Jayne, and Chantal—standing indoors against a decorative backdrop with warm string lights. One person in the centre is holding an award, and the group is dressed in smart casual attire.

Charlie and Annabel at FabFest, wearing dark blue event T-shirts with FabFest logos and blue lanyards, standing indoors with a blurred background of other attendees and booths.

 

And then came the awards. Winning Creative and Media Apprentice of the Year for Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin is something I don’t think has fully sunk in yet. It’s an outstanding honour, one that I couldn’t put a price on. To say I’m grateful would be an understatement.

This award isn’t just about me, it’s about the people around me who’ve believed in me, encouraged me, and have given me the chance to learn and prove myself. Without their support, none of this would have been possible.

To every apprentice who doubts themselves (like I often do) keep going. You might not feel like you’re good enough or quick enough, but one day you’ll look back and realise just how far you’ve come. And trust me, that surreal feeling… It is truly priceless.

Charlie-Mae standing on stage at the Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin Apprenticeship Awards (STWAA) in front of a large blue backdrop with white text and star graphics. Charlie-Mae is wearing a patterned dress and holding papers, with other individuals and a photographer visible in the foreground.

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