First Chapter Award: In Collaboration with
The Society of Young Publishers (SYP)
The SYP and The Publishing Post are collaborating on a new and unique accolade, the First Chapter Award. This is aimed at those who often go unrecognised in traditional trade awards, for example, publishing hopefuls, volunteers, booksellers, librarians and freelancers. It seeks to celebrate individuals who have demonstrated passion, teamwork and dedication to the industry, as well as their own professional goals.
By recognising these individuals, the First Chapter Award not only celebrates their current achievements but also inspires them to continue their passionate work in the publishing industry. It reinforces the idea that every contribution, no matter how small it may seem, is essential to the vibrant and dynamic world of books and reading.
The Award
Applications are open now, and close 31st August. It is a simple application form and you can nominate yourself or others.
This is a perfect opportunity to spotlight stars within your professional and volunteer team, and draw attention to the hard work being carried out by early-career professionals within the book community.
Shortlisted candidates will be announced at the end of the summer with winners announced at the SYP conference in November.
The judging panel will be comprised of SYP UK Chairs Michaela O’Callaghan and Eleanor Gaffney, The Publishing Post’s Chelsea Graham, and a variety of judges across the publishing industry, who will carefully evaluate the nominations.
Who is Eligible?
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Open to individuals across the UK and Ireland operating within the book and publishing community
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For those in the first 5 years in the industry or haven’t yet began a career in the industry
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Nominate yourselves, or an inspirational colleague or teammate
This award is open to a broad range of individuals at the very beginning of their careers, including:
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Hopefuls: Individuals aspiring to break into the publishing industry.
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Booksellers: Those whose passion and knowledge of books keeps things spinning.
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Early Publishing and Book-Related Industry Professionals: Those who have recently started their careers and are adding notable value to their team.
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Volunteers: Individuals who donate their time and effort to literary festivals, book events, organisations, and reading charities.
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Influencers: Those who are sharing insight and a love for the industry and reading in their spare time.
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Librarians: Professionals dedicated to fostering a love for books and reading within communities.
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Freelancers: Those working as freelancers within the book industry to support teams or elevate book-related activities.
What do winners recieve?
A diverse judging panel comprising professionals from across the publishing and book industry will carefully evaluate the nominations. The winners will receive:
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A free year-long SYP membership
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Prizes from across the industry
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Attend an awards ceremony at the SYP London Conference and take part in a panel
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The winners will be supported across SYP and Publishing Post socials and website.
Please contact sypchair@thesyp.org.uk if you have any enquiries about the First Chapter Awards.
Society of Young Publishers (SYP)
Society of Young PublishersThe SYP is a membership organisation whose aim is to provide a supportive network and be a trusted source of information for anyone, of any age, hoping to get into or ahead in publishing or a related trade.The SYP is made up of seven regional committees (Ireland, London, North, Oxford, Scotland, South West and Wales) and a UK committee responsible for overseeing the overall strategy of the group and producing the InPrint magazine. These teams are made up of dedicated volunteers who give up their spare time to help our members.