Future leaders, creatives and apprentices are among East Midlands 18-35’s set to be recognised for outstanding ability, potential or achievement in 2025’s Generation Next Awards, now open for applications.
Powered by East Midlands Chamber, Generation Next provides learning and development resources, skills workshops and mentoring for professionals and entrepreneurs in the 18-35 age group. The Generation Next Awards are one of the most important events in the network’s calendar.
Three new award categories have been introduced for 2025: Excellence in Professional Services, Excellence in Sales and Marketing and Communicator of the Year, while entry requirements for established categories have been refined. Following a judging process winners will receive awards at a celebratory event in summer.
Entry for all 12 categories closes on 7th March and submissions can be made by people within the qualifying age group or by a colleague.
Generation Next Lead and East Midlands Chamber Director of Resources Lucy Robinson said: “The day we hit ‘go’ on the Generation Next Awards is the start of an exciting rollercoaster each year! There’s so much young business talent in the East Midlands that deserve to be recognised for hard work, skill or innovative thinking. 18-35’s can enter themselves, or a business or colleague can nominate on their behalf.
“We’re all used to hearing of people awarded after making millions for a company. Generation Next is that same star quality in people – just much earlier in their journey! Whether you or a colleague excel in customer service, are a promising apprentice or have led a project brilliantly, we want to know.
“I’m really excited we have three new awards for 2025 and we’ve revamped the requirements for our longstanding awards too. Winning a Generation Next award isn’t just 5 minutes in the spotlight – you get excellent exposure, and nothing highlights brilliance like an award judged by industry leaders.
“I’m often asked for tips on what makes a winning entry. I’d just say don’t hesitate or overthink as people have often achieved far more than they realise or see in themselves. That’s why businesses can nominate an employee or colleague on their behalf. If you or a colleague stand out in some way, our judges will see that too so don’t hold back. We’d love to see you at the ceremony in summer, which is always great fun, and join in celebrating a Generation Next award win!”
Categories for the 2025 Generation Next Awards:
- Apprentice of the Year Award
- Creators and Makers Award
- Excellence in Customer Experience Award
- Entrepreneur of the Year Award
- Future Leader Award
- Innovator of the Year Award
- Talent Development Award
- Community Impact Champion Award
- Excellence in Sales or Marketing Award
- Emerging Talent Award
- Communicator of the Year Award
- Excellence in Professional Services Award
Applications close at 17.00 on 7th March 2025.
To see full entry requirements or submit an entry click here.
