The scheme offers those aged 18-30 and working in any role in the print industry or allied trades the chance to win up to £1,500 to undertake training and development that will help them shine in their career.
In 2024, the range of courses undertaken by the winners covered personal development, including building additional skills and learning techniques to boost confidence and capability; and leadership and management, which the charity said was requested by a significant number of winners working in multiple roles in diverse sectors.
Grants were also used to enhance core skills to underpin planned career progression; and for industry-recognised qualifications from professional bodies.
Two years on from his win, Darryl Worbey, Webmart client strategist, said: “Continuous learning has been key for my development, and I can’t recommend applying enough. It’s an amazing way to take that next step and really make an impact in your career.”
2024 winner Isabel Shanahan, project co-ordinator and artworker at ImageCo, added: “My courses will really help me improve my skills and knowledge, and help me build a portfolio that I can refer to whenever I need some inspiration.”
Printing Charity CEO Neil Lovell commented: “The Printing Charity is here to support our industry to attract and retain new talent, which introduces new skills, ideas and innovative thought that help ensure a bright future for the sector.
“The Rising Stars is our flagship programme to work towards this, as well as being a fantastic way to celebrate and champion the range of exceptional rising stars within it.
“Looking at the range of roles held by last year’s winners, and the diversity of development opportunities they applied for to support them in those roles, it’s clear that print has opportunities for everyone, whatever their background or skillsets, to shine in a career within it.”
Rising Star grants are for training and development that sits outside role-specific training, which will be provided by employers.
The charity said that, before making an application, potential Stars could speak to their manager, mentor, HR team, or a trusted colleague to help identify skills gaps or personal development goals, and gain initial ideas on the courses that would best address these.
Applications are open until Sunday 30 March. Information about the Awards process, plus advice and ideas on how to put together the best application and where to search for courses, can be found on the Rising Star Hub on the Printing Charity website. The application form can also be found on here.
The Printing Charity said that to receive an advance copy of application questions to help prepare before starting an application, those interested should e-mail: awards@theprintingcharity.org.uk.
