It has been quite some year so far – from Fellow to Finalist! I was awarded an Honorary Fellowship of the Association of Business Mentors (ABM) in the spring and recently I was a finalist at Uckfield Business Awards 2026.
Together, these awards show a commitment to business mentoring and the service I provide to business owners – I am delighted with the recognition I have received! The awards have prompted me to reflect on these two milestones:
ABM Honorary Fellow
I was honoured to receive a Fellowship of the ABM, the highest level of professional recognition from the association. The ABM is the UK’s recognised professional body dedicated to raising the standards of business mentoring and works tirelessly to promote business mentoring and its benefits.
Business owners who work with an experienced ABM mentor know they have the best support to help them grow and develop their business
The Fellowship from the ABM was awarded in recognition of my commercial credibility and many years of frontline business experience and mentoring experience. It also recognised that I adhere to strict ethical standards (including the Global Code of Ethics) and that I commit to ongoing professional development. Fellows have the highest standing in the ABM which shows high-quality capabilities in areas such as leadership, strategy and employee engagement.
Sole Trader of the Year
Being shortlisted as a finalist at this year’s Uckfield Business Awards for Sole Trader of the Year was an unexpected pleasure and privilege.
I was one of three finalists selected by the organisers from a strong field of local businesses. The other finalists were The Grammar Mamma and The Highland Joker – the award was kindly sponsored by Specsavers in Uckfield. Unfortunately, I didn’t win the award, but I was delighted to be a finalist and to be ‘Highly Commended’.
The endorsement highlights how my business mentoring service is seen and recognised in the local economy. Congratulations to the award winner, The Highland Joker, and to all the finalists and award winners at the Gala Awards Event.
The awards event was held at the East Sussex National Hotel on 1st October 2026. It was an amazing night, showcasing so many talented local businesses and individuals. I am so proud to be part of an incredible, thriving business community here in Uckfield.
Looking Ahead
I would like to thank my colleagues, family and business associates who helped to make these achievements possible. From Fellow to Finalist – the success inspires me to keep pushing forward, to continue to build even further on my business mentoring service which has helped and supported many businesses over many years. It is incredibly rewarding and humbling to help businesses achieve success and develop. With 40 years of frontline business experience, I understand the challenges business owners face – my objective is their success.
To take advantage of a free initial business consultation please contact me today by phone – 07885 685641 or by email – chris@dowlingbusinessmentor.co.uk
