Who We're Looking For

Talented women, trans, and non-binary identifying creatives who are stepping into leadership roles, this means: Copywriters, Art Directors, Designers, ACDs, newly-promoted Creative Directors and Design Directors (read: less than a year with that title) and creative teams who are doing game changing work and helping change our industry for the better.




Applying as a Team?

Great! Just remember that you must have both worked on all the pieces of work you’re submitting; and, when discussing the work, be sure to account for both of your POVs.

All team members must meet the other eligibility criteria.




What We Want To See

We’re looking for creative leaders who are pushing boundaries. Here's what to include when entering your work:

Creativity

4-6 pieces of work you’ve shaped or led—projects you’re proud of and that you believe are changing the game. We want to see how you’ve made an impact through your creativity.

POV

Tell us about your unique perspective. Did you advocate for diverse casting? Did you raise funds for a pro bono project? Add details on how your POV influenced the work and how it pushed the boundaries of what's possible.

Leadership

Show us how you're leading and making a difference. Whether it's mentoring, advocating for diversity, or working on pro bono initiatives, share a bio that highlights how you're leaving a positive mark on the industry.




A Few Rules

Rule #1: On Changing the Face of Leadership

Our industry has plenty of talented cisgender, male leaders, but this award is for up and coming, underrepresented creatives who are actively challenging the status quo.

Rule #2: On Executives

Creatives with the “Big E” before their CD titles have already proven themselves as leaders. They probably have shining reports to send us, though!

Rule #3: On Previous Winners

Previous winners are asked to leave this round—and the glory—to a new generation of kick-ass creatives.

Rule #4: On School Work

Next Creative Leaders are on the seasoned side. Know a talented creative who still has spec work in their book? We welcome their application in a few years!




What It Costs

Nothing. Next Creative Leaders 2025 is free to enter!




What You Win