The power of community can help elevate careers, inspire innovation and drive meaningful change—not just in an individual or organisation, but for everyone.
How? It all starts by listening and understanding the needs of others and then be willing to contribute meaningfully through mentorship, education or collaboration, according to Hollie Whittles, information security & HR director, Purple Frog Systems.
Whittles speaks from experience. As an active member in the GTIA UK & Ireland Community, she has seen firsthand how community engagement build trust, innovation and value—for herself, her business and ultimately to her clients.
Her personal contributions to the community were instrumental in her being chosen by GTIA member voters to receive the 2025 UK & Ireland Community Leadership award for her outstanding engagement, professionalism and passion in her support for GTIA initiatives.
We asked Whittles how her involvement with GTIA has shaped her journey and what advice she has to extract more value from a community. Here’s what she had to say.
What does the GTIA UK & Ireland Community Leadership Award mean to you?
Receiving the GTIA UK & Ireland Community Leadership Award is a deeply meaningful recognition for me following in the great footsteps of other inspirational winners. It reflects not just my personal achievement, but the collective impact of the GTIA community work I’ve been privileged to lead and be part of. It’s a celebration of collaboration, resilience and the power of bringing people together to drive positive change in technology. I love working with people and for me, it’s a reminder that leadership is about service, and that real progress happens when we lift others up as we climb.
How has being part of GTIA helped your business/career?
Being part of GTIA has been transformative for my business and my career. It’s opened doors to invaluable networks, developed meaningful friendships, gained thought leadership and provided collaborative opportunities that have directly influenced both my personal growth and our business strategy. The GTIA community encourages a culture of innovation and support, which helps us stay ahead of industry trends, attract talent and build trust with clients. Personally, it’s given me a platform to advocate for data and AI, amplifying my voice in meaningful ways.
If you could go back in time 10 years, what would you tell your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self: “Trust your instincts, be yourself and don’t wait for permission to lead.” The technology world moves fast, and confidence is key. I’d also remind myself that setbacks are part of growth, and that the relationships you build will be just as important as the skills you develop. Stay curious, be kind, and never underestimate the power of community.
What is the biggest opportunity for ITSPs and other tech businesses over the next couple of years?
The biggest opportunity lies in human-centric innovation by leveraging AI, data and digital transformation to solve real-world problems while prioritising ethics and inclusivity. ITSPs have a unique chance to lead in areas like sustainable technology, data governance and workforce skills development. Those who invest in upskilling, diversity and community engagement will not only thrive but shape the future of the industry.
What advice do you have for ITSPs and other tech businesses on how to engage in the community?
Start by listening. Understand the needs of your local and professional communities and look for ways to contribute meaningfully whether through mentorship, education or collaboration. Be visible, be authentic and don’t underestimate the impact of small actions. Community engagement isn’t just good PR, it’s a strategic advantage that builds trust, innovation and creates long lasting value.
See the full list of 2025 UK & Ireland Spotlight Award Winners.
