Lady Arabella presents the Hero of Civility Award to Dr Philip Sykes, Founder of The British School of Excellence, on behalf of the Etiquette Africa Initiative. The award, given in June this year, honours Dr Sykes’ exceptional efforts in championing civility, emotional intelligence, and social harmony across Africa through his ongoing work and leadership. A moment of grace, respect and shared purpose.

Dear Friends,

Thank you for the kind and thoughtful messages following my first letter. I was genuinely touched by your warm welcome, generous words, and thoughtful questions.

It’s a pleasure to be writing to you again. I look forward to staying in touch and sharing regular updates — from behind-the-scenes moments and reflections, to news from The British School of Excellence and the work I have the privilege of doing.

I wanted to take a moment to share some truly lovely news.

Dr Philip Sykes, the Founder and CEO of The British School of Excellence, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration by the European Institute of Management and Technology.

It’s a quiet, meaningful honour that recognises his years of work helping people grow in confidence, self-awareness, and social intelligence. I couldn’t be happier for him — or think of anyone more deserving.

Philip has had a remarkable journey, not only building a successful global organisation but also inspiring so many of us along the way. I’ve had the great pleasure of working with him, learning from him, and seeing firsthand how his calm, thoughtful approach makes such a difference. He never seeks the spotlight, yet his impact is felt deeply — in how he teaches, leads, and connects with people.

About Dr Philip Sykes

Philip began his career in hospitality and later founded The British School of Etiquette in 2013, which became The British School of Excellence in 2021. With over 35 years of experience, he’s worked with people from all over the world — from private individuals to public figures — helping them navigate life and work with more clarity, care and confidence.

He’s also been featured across international media, including the BBC, NBC, The Wall Street Journal, The Telegraph, USA Global TV and Radio, and many others. But those are just headlines. What really stands out is the way he encourages people to show up with kindness, to communicate well, and to bring a sense of purpose to what they do.

Philip’s belief in personal excellence is never about perfection — it’s about growth, integrity, and respect. That’s what makes this recognition so meaningful.

So, from me — and from many of us, I’m sure — heartfelt congratulations, Philip. We’re proud of you and grateful for all you’ve given us.

Letters from readers

I want to share a question I received from a reader last week.

Hi,
Hope this finds you well.
I’m glad I received your email.
I do not know or am not quite sure what is I need.
But I think your training could help me.
I am a 69-year-old lady. Retired but still teaching.
The thing is about me is that I am not good at public speaking. Whether it’s low self-esteem or what, when I stop teaching, I would like to embark on workshops. Training people about interesting topics. Now, how do I do that without being confident?
I need your help. How can you help me?
Thank you.
Barbara

Dear Barbara,

Thank you so much for writing. Your message touched me deeply.

First, let me say — I think you’re marvellous. At 69, still teaching, still learning, still looking ahead with such intention — that’s something to be truly proud of. Many people stop before they ever begin. You haven’t.

What you shared is something so many of us quietly carry — that fear of standing up, being seen, and finding the right words in front of others. You are not alone in that. I remember my own wobbly voice the first time I stood to speak in front of a room. It wasn’t perfect. But it was a beginning. And that’s all any of us need to do — begin.

At The British School of Excellence, we’re passionate about voice. Not just how we sound, but how we feel when we speak. We help people of all ages and backgrounds find the confidence to speak clearly, comfortably, and with heart.

You don’t need to be loud to be powerful. You don’t need to be perfect to be heard.

Here are a few simple tips I’ve found helpful, and I hope they might support you too:

1. Breathe first.
Before you speak, take a slow, steady breath. It grounds you. When we’re nervous, we breathe too quickly — and that makes everything harder. One calm breath can change how you feel.

2. Speak slower than you think.
When we’re unsure, we often rush. But slowing down gives your words space to land. It also gives you time to think.

3. Make eye contact with just one person.
In a group, find one friendly face and speak to them. It makes the room feel smaller and more manageable.

4. Don’t aim for perfect. Aim for honest.
People don’t connect with polish — they connect with sincerity. If you speak with warmth and intention, that’s what they’ll remember.

5. Practise aloud.
Read a short poem or article out loud each day. This builds your vocal confidence and strengthens your rhythm and clarity. It’s a quiet but powerful daily habit.

Barbara, I believe you’d make a wonderful workshop leader. You already have something that can’t be taught — experience, curiosity, and heart. Let us help you build the confidence to share it.

We have brilliant coaches who specialise in public speaking, presentation and personal communication. If and when you’re ready, we’d love to work with you.

You’ve already taken the first step by reaching out. That’s brave. I admire you for it.

I look forward to hearing from you, and I value your feedback and questions.

Have a wonderful weekend.

With warmest wishes,

Lady Arabella