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.
ENTRY DEADLINE: JUNE 16, 2025
WINNERS ANNOUNCED: AUGUST 2025
We’re searching for trailblazing women, trans, and non-binary creatives stepping into leadership roles. This includes copywriters, art directors, designers, ACDs, and newly-promoted Creative Directors or Design Directors (with less than a year in the role).
Creative teams of two, doing game-changing work, are also welcome to apply. However, each teammate must meet the criteria above.
Know someone doing amazing work? Nominate them, and we’ll invite them to apply. Entering NCL requires a biography and point of view, so unless you're entering for yourself or as an awards manager, we recommend nominating a creative!
The Next Creative Leaders jury is an international group of creative visionaries, industry pioneers, and past NCL winners, all dedicated to advancing and elevating gender-expansive creatives shaping the future of our industry. We will announce the NCL 2025 Jury in early Summer 2025.
We’re excited to partner with global and regional organizations dedicated to empowering the next wave of creative talent. Their support amplifies underrepresented voices and fosters a more inclusive and diverse creative community.
If you or your company is interested in partnering with Next Creative Leaders, please reach out to nextcreativeleaders@oneclub.org.
2025 Next Creative Leaders branding designed by previous NCL winner and judge Du Nieto.
Font, Romie Light Italic, donated by Margot Lévêque Studio.
© The One Club for Creativity. All rights reserved.
Next Creative Leaders identity designed by Du Nieto with font Romie Light Italic donated by Margot Lévêque Studio
