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About Next Creative Leaders

Next Creative Leaders (NCL) is a global portfolio competition recognizing women, trans, and non-binary creatives who are shaping the future of the creative industry. NCL offers a platform for gender-expansive creatives to showcase their unique vision and make a lasting impact through innovative work and leadership.

Key Dates

April 9th – Entries Open

June 2nd – Jury Announced

June 16th – Entries Close

August 27th – Winners Announced

Who Can Enter

Talented women, trans, and non-binary creatives stepping into leadership roles

Copywriters, Art Directors, Designers, ACDs, and newly-promoted Creative Directors and Design Directors (less than a year in the role)

Creative teams of two (each meeting the criteria above) doing game-changing work that’s shaping the future of the industry

What We Want To See

Creativity

 – Show off 4 to 6 badass projects you’ve led or shaped—work that breaks the mold and make waves.

POV

 – How has your perspective made a difference? Did you push for diverse casting or get a pro bono project off the ground?

Leadership

 – How are you making waves in the industry? Share your work in mentoring, diversity, or pro bono efforts.

Jury

The Next Creative Leaders jury is an international group of creative visionaries, industry pioneers, and past NCL winners, all dedicated to advancing gender equity and elevating gender-expansive creatives shaping the future of our industry.