We recently attended the JABA (Jonas Annual Business Awards) at the amazing Celtic Manor in Wales!
Hopewiser were one of 4 businesses attending their first JABA event.
This event, held over the course of 2 days, brought together UK businesses acquired by the Jonas Group and celebrated the achievements of the organisations and employees over the past year.
But the JABA was not only an award ceremony, but also a fantastic opportunity for networking and learning.
The event kicked off with an innovation presentation delivered by each business. These were ideas or products which discussed ways to boost internal productivity, generate more leads, or streamline services.
And while we could only vote for one winner of the innovation award, everyone deserved massive credit for their strong ideas, and for having the bravery to be able to present in front of hundreds of people!
Ollie and Mike presenting Hopewiser’s Portal Automation Innovation Project.
Afterwards, we all attended multiple breakout rooms which were setup. They allowed everyone to pick and choose a topic to learn about in hour long sessions delivered by an expert.
From career journeys and inclusive thinking to AI and password safety, there was something interesting for everyone to learn about.
We also had the privilege of hearing from Scotty Mills – a former Green Beret Commando for Britain and now a motivational speaker who shared his knowledge and experience in working with people and teams to build a culture of trust, camaraderie and cohesion.
We were provided with first class entertainment and a variety of amazing food and drink during our stay at Celtic Manor. We witnessed breath-taking acrobats demonstrate their gymnastics and dance skills, alongside a rock band put together by Jonas employees.
We even had one of our own – Lisa from our Bureau department – take to the stage as a singer!
The evening awards ceremony was a vibrant celebration of the hard work and dedication of the Jonas Group employees and recognised their contributions to the industry.
Hopewiser’s MVP award went to Ian in our Support team who provides consistent, high quality support for our customers, and does so with a smile on his face at all times.
Showing our support for Ian who was crowned Hopewiser’s Most Valuable Person.
There was plenty of opportunity for networking and collaboration with others allowing us to meet new people, discuss best practices and share knowledge about software, data and IT.
While there was plenty of thinking and work to be done over the course of the JABA, we had the chance to make the most of the amazing facilities and have some downtime. Some of us chose the brisk nature walk around the grounds of Celtic Manor, while others used the time to do yoga, swim or use the gym.
Before getting on our coach back to Manchester we ended the event with a final meeting as an individual business where we recapped the events of the JABA, discussed our targets and ways to improve as an organisation.
Hopewiser’s quarterly Town Hall meeting.
A massive thank you to everyone who made the event possible, it was an honour for all of us to attend the JABA and meet so many amazing people, and we look forward to continuing our journey of growth as part of the Jonas family.
See you at the next JABA in early 2026!
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