The Year That Taught Me Everything About Starting Over

Ayesha Nicholls:

If 2025 had a theme for me, it would be “Start Again.” Not in the dramatic, fall-to-your-knees sense, but in the quiet, clarifying way that life sometimes forces you to pause, pivot, and redefine success. This year asked me to stretch in every direction—personally, professionally, emotionally—and in doing so, it taught me lessons I didn’t even know I needed.

Here’s what stood out most, and what I’m looking forward to in 2026.

1. Loss can be the best reset you never asked for

Early in the year, I lost my job as Communications Lead at USAID/Eastern and Southern Caribbean when the Agency was closed. It was a role that I really loved, and one that had become a big part of my professional identity. I can’t lie- it was tough! A mere two months after getting married, I was suddenly navigating employment uncertainty I didn’t plan for. But loss, I’ve learned, is often a clearing. It creates space for new things to take root- including this opportunity I have to be a part of this incredible Strategic Global Columnist Network. It also cleared space for me to accept international speaking opportunities, continue my mentorship with young entrepreneurs at the Barbados Youth Business Trust, and best of all- spend more time with my family and friends.

2. Growth doesn’t always come with a pay raise

When I joined GovTech Barbados in March as Director of Communications, I had to adjust—not just to a new organization, but to the reality of a smaller pay cheque. It was an adjustment in lifestyle and short-term life goals.  Yet what I gained has been immeasurable. From the opportunity to lead from the C-suite, to defining a national brand, to building out a communications strategy from the ground up, has been deeply rewarding. I’ve also managed to check several goals off my career wish list. While it hasn’t been easy, it’s stretched every part of my professional muscle. Growth, it turns out, sometimes comes in purpose, not pay.

3. The highs were worth every pivot

Despite the challenges, 2025 brought some incredible moments: stepping onto the DisruptHR Jamaica stage to talk about the importance of storytelling and strategy; contributing to The Exception Code book project; and celebrating one year of marriage—a milestone that still makes me smile. Through every twist and turn, I was reminded that even when life reroutes you, it can lead somewhere meaningful.

4. Adaptability is the new superpower

This was the year of learning to bend without breaking. Every shift—new systems, new teams, new expectations—called for adaptability and humility. The “new normal” looks different than I imagined, but I’ve learned to embrace change as a creative force rather than a disruption.

5. The next chapter: Beyond the Message

For years, I’ve said I’d launch my own space to share reflections on strategic communications and leadership. I’ve drafted, planned, overthought—and never hit publish. That changes in 2026.

My blog, Beyond the Message | Strategic Communications by Ayesha Nicholls, will finally come to life. It’s where I’ll explore the stories, ideas, and strategies that shape how we communicate meaningfully in a noisy world.

I’ll announce the launch on LinkedIn, so be sure to connect with me there!

6. Looking ahead: AI and the evolving landscape of Comms

The intersection of AI and communications continues to intrigue me. As the tools evolve, so must we. I believe the future lies in using technology to amplify (not replace) the human element. The best communicators of tomorrow will be those who blend intuition with insight, and empathy with innovation.

If 2024 was about endurance, 2025 was about evolution. I learned to start again, to build differently, and to lead with both strategy and sincerity.

Here’s to 2026—the year of bold ideas, deeper storytelling, and the courage to truly go beyond the message.

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Ayesha R. Nicholls is a Barbados-based communications strategist and Director of Communications at GovTech Barbados Ltd. She contributes to regional and global efforts around digital transformation, trust, and purpose-led leadership. Ayesha is part of the Strategic Global Columnist Network and a contributing author to the IABC Guide for Practical Business Communication: A Global Standard Primer. Connect with her on LinkedIn.

Written by: Editor