15 October 2025, London – CET was delighted to host colleagues, partners, and friends at The Impact Hub Euston for our annual Networking & Drinks Reception, an evening celebrating collaboration, learning, and leadership across our network.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the David Coughtrie Leadership Awards, recognising exceptional individuals who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and a commitment to promoting Commercial Ability across their organisations and communities.
The David Coughtrie Leadership Award 2025 was presented to Lauren Kiernan, HR Business Partner at The Hartford, for her outstanding work in designing and delivering an 8-week internship programme in partnership with The Brokerage. The initiative has opened pathways for young people from diverse backgrounds into the insurance sector, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and commercial awareness to thrive in professional environments.
Lauren’s leadership has inspired colleagues to mentor and volunteer, fostering a culture of inclusion and early talent development. The programme has now supported 18 interns, several of whom have gone on to secure further opportunities and join professional networks across the sector.
🏅 Commendations were also awarded to Harvinder and Boaz, both recognised for their contribution to leadership and impact in promoting Commercial Ability.
The Young Leader Award 2025 was awarded to Harish Naguleswaran, a Young Leader at The Brokerage, who has exemplified what it means to lead by example.
Harish has progressed from participant to peer mentor, supporting others to build confidence and commercial awareness through events with major firms including Fidelis, Deutsche Bank, and Ninety One. Beyond his work with The Brokerage, Harish founded ByHarish, mentoring dozens of students into top universities and apprenticeships, and launched EconBridge, an online platform with more than two million views making economics accessible to all.
🏅 A commendation was also presented to Tawsif Islam, recognised for his emerging leadership and advocacy for young people’s skills development.
The David Coughtrie Leadership Award was first established in 2023 to honour David Coughtrie, who served as a CET Trustee from 2011 and as Chair from 2014 to 2020. The award reflects David’s strong belief in the power of leadership to drive change and his lasting commitment to developing Commercial Ability across the sector.
Speaking at the event, David reflected on the importance of leadership that enables others to grow:
“Leadership is not about position or power; it’s about purpose, influence, and helping others succeed. The individuals recognised tonight remind us that when we lead with integrity and collaboration, we multiply our impact.”
CET Executive Director Mahad Ali added:
“These awards celebrate the very best of our network — leaders who bring energy, creativity, and purpose to everything they do. Their work demonstrates what Commercial Ability looks like in action: confidence, collaboration, and a commitment to building opportunity for others.”
The reception also included project showcases, networking sessions, and a celebration of CET’s ongoing work supporting innovation and sector learning. Trustees, partners, and guests came together to share insights and ideas for strengthening collaboration and growing the collective impact of Commercial Ability.
CET extends sincere thanks to all guests, partners, and contributors, particularly The Brokerage, The Hartford, and David Coughtrie for their continued leadership and support.
