She led the transition in the professional Human Resources community from personnel management to employee development. This took the form of her allying with diverse people in her workplace to champion their professional and career development. She fought for the unrecognized in her community, and career, as a mentor, coach, and advocate. Be it in giving refuge to professional Afghan women following the withdrawal of American forces in 2021. Serving as the Virginia President of the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA HR) from her role at the University of Virginia. Her board membership and countless hours volunteering on the Blue Ridge Literacy Foundation. Or, advocating for engagement between Estonia and the United States during the CoVID-19 pandemic when she leveraged her then roll at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Fralin Biomedical Research Institute.

Pamela’s energy, infectious enthusiasm and sheer force of will worked to marshal resources far and wide to support the dreams of countless people globally. She was tragically lost in a senseless automobile accident in Rapla County Estonia after celebrating Thanksgiving with family.

The 1,000 euro annual prize rewards outstanding everyday Estonian leaders who promote the empowerment of people in all their diversity, with a broad remit covering achievements in gender equality or equal participation in and access to decision-making, as well as action to encourage inclusive policies and practice to give raise to the dreams of an individual or organization, be them grand or common. You can find more details on the ideal candidate for nomination here.

The prize will be presented at a venue to be announced three months prior on this page, it is typically in Tallinn, Estonia.

The prize includes not only monetary award but crucially supportive coaching from a certified professional coach, as well as a deserved spa retreat contributed by an AmCham member hotel. The prize trophy is to represent the Dream Lifter effort and Pamela.