Yesterday I received recognition by the Orangi Kaupapa Trust, which "reward[s] those people whose work benefits the quality of life in New Zealand."

It was a complete surprise to me. The Chief Executive and one of the Trustees arrived with two colleagues of mine. Lesley Slade and Minnie Baragwanath, with whom I work to run Be. Leadership. 

I thought I'd forgotten the meeting had been arranged. Then slowly the plot was revealed: Lesley and Minnie had furtively orchestrated the award.

I was struck by the range of emotions and experiences I had. I felt confused, surprised, grateful, unworthy, embarrassed, uncomfortable and hugely appreciative. I was told the generous amount of money was for me to spend on myself, not on my work. The accompanying card read simply, "In recognition of your service to others..."

It's funny because I feel like the work I do, I do for me, not for others. In fact, rarely these days do I do anything that I don't want to do! Which just affirms to me the social change mantra, that true change begins from within and the effect permeates outwards and is noticed by others.

So I am incredibly and humbly thankful to my colleagues and the Orangi Kaupapa Trust, who have demonstrated with humility their gratitude of me. What a wonderful way to operate in the world. Let there be more.