BWPA Awards for 2021 – nominations now open!

Do you know anyone who has done something special within the world of aviation? Every year, we make a number of awards to recognise achievement and commitment to aviation. The nominations for the 2021 awards are now open.

The awards recognise personal and career achievements, and more. You can find out more about each award on our awards page. If you need some inspiration, you can explore our award winners page.

In honour of the 2021 awards, we spoke with 2020 winner of the Naomi Christy Cup, Steph Smith, who was made the award for her work on a project close to her heart.

How did you feel about being nominated for an award?

‘I had no idea that I had been nominated for a BWPA award until my name was read out during the AGM. It turns out both my husband and my best friend had decided to nominate me for my work getting Bymbo, my late dad’s glider, airworthy again. I remember being sat in our study listening to the AGM over Zoom and suddenly hearing my name mentioned; apparently my face was a picture, I was in complete shock!’

What is it like flying Bymbo again?

‘Bymbo has become well known since I wrote the article about her restoration for the BWPA.  The response I have had from the gliding community for returning her to flight has been amazing. Getting her flying again has been a labour of love, but worth every penny spent and every tear shed.’

Steph Smith, winner of the 2020 Naomi Christy Cup.

For details about how to nominate someone, visit the awards page. Good luck to all nominees!