On the day that Boris Johnson took up his new job as Prime Minister, a record 93 winners were presented with their Print Futures Awards in Westminister, at a reception at the House of Lords hosted by Lord Black of Brentwood, deputy chairman of the Telegraph Media Group and president emeritus of The Printing Charity.
This year marks 10 years of the awards, building on a previous scheme set up in 2003; the awards are now the largest single awards scheme for people aged 18 to 30 years in the UK printing, paper, packaging, publishing, and graphic arts sector.
At the event, reflecting on an industry he has been involved in for 25 years, Lord Black said: “In some ways this is the worst of times with the huge pressures of commercial and structural change in our industry as we feel the full impact of the digital revolution, but in so many other ways this is the best of times for young people like you joining the industry.
“The opportunities are literally endless for those with the skills, energy, and determination to succeed, not least through a commitment to lifelong learning. These Awards are important because they celebrate those opportunities and your successful start to what I hope and know will be long and distinguished careers. “This year we had 248 applications from across the country and a fantastic range of skills.
“For the first time the judging process was also held in Leeds, reflecting the number of applications from the north. It’s also great news for our industry that we had so many applications from women, almost two-to-one.”
Neil Lovell, The Printing Charity’s chief executive, said: “These Awards have grown exponentially in the last few years. We’re thrilled to help you find new routes, undertake extra training, and develop your careers. We have a lot of new faces and companies involved this year so my call is to please pass on the message to encourage more organisations to get involved.”
About The Printing Charity:
The Printing Charity is proud of its heritage and since 1827 has been supporting people of all ages working in printing, paper, packaging, and publishing. Its charitable aims include promoting independence, protecting dignity and furthering education. It meets the needs of those it helps through financial assistance, signposting to specialist services, two sheltered home schemes for people who have retired from the sector, and initiatives supporting sector-specific training.
More at www.theprintingcharity.org.uk and @printingcharity
