PR Professional Tabbed as Finalist for BizBash Award

Professional woman and champion for animal welfare, Rachel Weil might soon be forced to adopt yet another label: PR Professional of the Year.

Weil, founder of Weil Public Relations based in Sherman Oaks, has been selected as a finalist for PR Professional of the Year in the BizBash Los Angeles Reader's Choice Awards.

"This is a huge honor," said Weil after learning she was tabbed as a finalist for the award. "It’s always nice to be recognized for the work that you do."

BizBash, which operates out of Los Angeles, New York and other large U.S. cities, is a bi-coastal magazine, as well as trade media giant for the event industry, that works alongside public relations firms and a number of other professional organizations.

BizBash also hands out awards in categories such as Event Planner of the Year, DJ of the Year, and Caterer of the Year.

Weil, who operates her boutique PR firm with the help of a few interns, may not seem like the typical candidate for such an award, considering the size of her operation and the fact that she is competing with large PR firms throughout Los Angeles. However, Weil believes her nomination is a testament to the notion that positive and effective work will not go unnoticed, regardless of the size of her company.

"It’s not about taking on as many clients as I can, it’s about working with companies that I’m passionate about," Weil said. "My clients are like my family."

Weil began her PR career over 15 years ago after graduating from the University of Texas, where she majored in deaf education. She officially opened Weil Public Relations in 2006, and her itch to help those in need has not abandoned her in the professional realm.

Weil works with corporate and start-up companies nationally and internationally, including clients in Africa, India and Indonesia. She also works with several non-profit organizations.

"I use my PR skills to help causes that are close to my heart, like animal protection," said Weil, who spends a majority of her time rescuing senior and special needs animals. 

Those wishing to vote can click here. Weil is in Category 10 for PR Professional of the Year. 

Voting ends June 10.